WS/FCS considers closing Virtual Academy's elementary program amid declining enrollment

Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools is considering eliminating the Virtual Academy’s elementary program, which could save the district nearly $1 million.

Under this proposal, the Virtual Academy would serve only 6th through 12th graders and become embedded within Winston-Salem Preparatory Academy. 

At a Board of Education meeting on Tuesday, Chief Human Resource Officer Christopher Weikart said the move was prompted by a decline in enrollment, especially in the lower grades. 

“Right now, as we look at 3rd-grade enrollment, we have one student who chose Virtual Academy 3rd grade as their primary option," Weikart said. "We have less than 10 total that listed it as an option together.” 

He says the consolidation would save the district roughly $950,000. But more than a dozen Virtual Academy students, parents and staff came out to the meeting to oppose the change. 

Several said the school provides a safe environment for students with learning disabilities and those experiencing illness or bullying.

Other speakers, like Jennifer Chambers, said virtual teaching was a lifeline for educators who were injured, sick or otherwise unable to return to in-person classrooms. 

“Closing the Virtual Academy isn't just about changing locations or merging schools, it's about dismantling a safe haven for vulnerable students and dedicated staff," Chambers said. "For some of us, including myself, this closure would end our teaching careers entirely.”

District officials say it’s possible that some Virtual Academy educators wouldn’t be able to transfer to Winston-Salem Prep, especially if there are already enough teachers at the school for a particular class. They say those staff members would be given preferential placement for other openings in the district.

A petition to preserve the Virtual Academy as it is currently has more than 650 signatures. 

There will be a public hearing on the proposed changes on Feb. 11, followed by a vote by the school board.

Amy Diaz covers education for WFDD in partnership with Report For America. You can follow her on Twitter at @amydiaze.