How Online High School Works

girl smiling studying at home

Cascade Virtual Academy (CVA) provides students with a high school experience like no other. With multiple online courses from which to choose, students can enjoy an individualized high school program tailored to their goals and abilities.

CVA high school students receive many benefits, including:

  • Outstanding curriculum from Stride K12, a leading provider of online learning and a Cognia-accredited company
  • Multiple curriculum options to meet the needs of diverse learners 
  • Diverse high school catalog with courses in math, English/language arts, science, history, and electives
  • Individualized Learning Plan for each student charts a course for success during and after high school
  • CVA teachers, advisors, counselors, coordinators, and other educational personnel—offering personalized support to students and families
  • Extracurricular clubs and activities 
  • In-person teacher-led and school-sponsored events where they can network with their peers

The Cascade Virtual Academy (CVA) high school program serves students in grades 9–12 who reside in the state of Oregon.


Because CVA is part of the public school system, it’s tuition-free. Enrolled families receive the K12 curriculum and instruction from Oregon-licensed teachers. Based on financial need and eligibility, CVA may loan a computer system (including computer, printer, and software) to support the learning process. Our enrollment consultants can help address your technological and computer questions and needs.

Teachers provide group instruction through live online sessions. Students are expected to attend all live sessions, which vary by subject and are scheduled by their teachers.

Expectations for Completing Schoolwork

In high school, students are required to earn a passing grade on their assignments and online lessons. Due dates are assigned to lessons to encourage consistent, steady progress for academic success.

While online lessons can usually be completed at any time of day, students will be required to attend live online sessions with their teacher(s) based on the student’s individual needs. During the live sessions, students will receive direct instruction from teachers and have opportunities to interact and collaborate with classmates. In addition to regular, synchronous classroom instruction, teachers may offer support or small group sessions to assist in student learning.

Attending the live sessions, along with completing coursework, will help students be successful. Parents/Learning Coaches are encouraged to contact their child’s homeroom teacher any time they have questions or concerns.

girl using her computer

Attendance is logged Monday through Friday; however, academic progress can be achieved during the weekends as well. High school students are expected to spend 6 hours per course per week. A student who takes 5 courses and spends 6 hours per week on each one is devoting approximately 30 hours per week to his or her course work.


Email is the primary form of communication between the school and families. Learning Coaches and students are required to check and respond to emails on a daily basis.


CVA students must comply with all Oregon-mandated testing requirements.