FAQ's

Required items are:

• Dedicated workspace
• If you are in need of reliable internet access, please contact the school counselor.
• All ARISE students are issued an SDJ Chromebook but are welcome to use their own device if preferred. Note that Apple tablet computers do not work (they are incompatible) with the online curriculum provided through ARISE
• Scanner, mobile telephone, Chromebook (district provided), or another device to capture images of assignments for uploading/submitting to ARISE.
• Student supplies (list distributed by each teacher)
• OPTIONAL: The Chromebook issued by the SDJ to ARISE students has built-in speakers, a microphone, and a webcam to participate in Class Time and online discussions. Students may opt to use their own plug-in headphones or microphone

Students are responsible for backing up their work. Technology problems do not excuse an absence, but we recognize that technology doesn't always work the way we want it to. ARISE Virtual Academy staff will do their best to make sure no student's education suffers because of technology issues.

Issues with the SDJ issued Chromebook should be directed to the SDJ IT Help/Support page.

At ARISE Virtual Academy students will log in daily to their classes and complete the lessons that are due each day. Of course students can work ahead and complete classes early.

Just like a traditional school, there are reading and writing assignments, projects, quizzes and, yes, tests. Everything you need to study for those assignments is always available 24/7, from the very first day of class. There are also online extras like video simulations, discussion boards, blogs and wikis. That way you can learn where and when it works for you.

Our teachers are working, teaching and conducting classes year-round. They also host open office hours where students can get extra help and receive personal attention. And school advisors and guidance counselors are on hand to help students stay on track.

ARISE Virtual Academy is committed to providing a truly individualized learning experience; one that's centered on your goals, academic strengths and unique learning style. Your mentor and a guidance counselor will help determine which classes will meet your graduation requirements and help you reach your goals. We have an extensive course catalog to choose from.

Teachers are available for one-on-one support. And because we cater course materials to your learning style, students can study in the way that works best for them whether that be visuals, lectures or hands-on experiences.

All ARISE Virtual Academy teachers are fully licensed and state-certified by the Wisconsin Department of Instruction. In addition, our teachers have in-service training, pursue professional development opportunities, and collaborate with fellow educators from around the country to prepare and work with our students.

And though they are all WI-licensed, they don't all live in Wisconsin. ARISE Virtual Academy hires and trains the best instructors, regardless of geography. Our faculty understand the nuances of teaching in a virtual setting and only lead classes in their areas of expertise. It's what allows us to provide the highest standard of education you'll find anywhere.

Elementary teachers stay in regular contact with every student via email, instant messaging and the occasional phone call. They are also available to offer extra help. Middle School and High School teachers offer Open Hours for students to attend to receive extra help.

Families are responsible for obtaining basic supplies, just as they would if the student was enrolled in a traditional middle or high school. Please contact the school for more information about supplies.

Students with special needs can do quite well at ARISE Virtual Academy. Every IEP student is assigned a special education teacher who will work closely with you and your family. Students with an IEP have opportunities to work with both general education and special education teachers.

Each student will have at least two courses at one time and, in some cases, up to four courses. Approximate study time per course is about two to three hours a day totalling about 30 hours a week. This includes reading assignments, typing up your homework, attending live lessons, and joining discussion threads. Some students may put in a little more time; others will need a little less. Your teachers and advisors can help you develop time management skills and study habits that will help you succeed.

Course materials-including readings, discussion threads, wikis, videos and more-are available on our Learning Management System (LMS) twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. They are available from the first day of class to the end of the semester. That means you can study whenever you want. You can even study ahead. And it doesn't matter if you're a night owl or an early riser. Your teachers will also regularly host open office hours where you can find extra help.

You can study anywhere you wish where you can get access to your student coursework online - maybe a coffee house, library, couch, table, even family trips.

There are some due dates and deadlines, as well as calendars for quizzes and tests. We've found that due dates help students stay on track and avoid surprises. However, some of these target dates are flexible; together, you and your teacher will find the schedule that works best.

We ask parents to call us if a student becomes ill so that we can mark absences appropriately.  Often, ARISE Virtual Academy is more flexible than a traditional elementary, middle or high school, because students can make up their coursework on weekends and breaks.

Whatever your post high school plans may be, ARISE Virtual Academy has a full listing of course offerings and curriculum to help you reach your goals.  Many ARISE graduates go on to military service, successful entrepreneurships, fire or police academy training, apprenticeships, culinary school, tech school, universities and more.

College-bound students can add honors and advanced placement courses to their personalized curriculum and can earn earn college credits while still in high school. Guidance counselors will help you choose the right courses and can recommend extracurricular activities to help you stand out in the admissions crowd. ARISE students can take a variety of career courses or vocational prep classes that are organized by career clusters. These  classes include curriculum specifically geared to healthcare, finance, business, hospitality and information technology fields.