Is the Virtual Academy Right for Your Family?
Every student learns differently. The Virtual Academy is a new option for families who need a more flexible way to learn. See if any of these sound like your family.
My child needs a flexible schedule
Student athletes, performers, kids with health needs, and families who travel can build school around their life. The Virtual Academy lets students complete coursework in the morning, evening, or on weekends.
My child learns at their own pace
Some students need more time on a topic. Others are ready to move ahead. The Virtual Academy lets each student work at the pace that fits them, with a recommended weekly schedule to keep them on track.
My child learns better in a different environment
Some students do their best work in a quieter setting, with more flexibility, or at home. The Virtual Academy is built for students who learn best in a self-directed environment.
My child wants online learning along with sports and clubs
Most online schools do not offer extracurricular activities. Virtual Academy students can join any BCPS sport, club, or in-person elective. Online academics, full school experience.
My child has an IEP or 504 plan
The Virtual Academy honors all IEPs and 504 plans. Special education services and accommodations are coordinated by dedicated Virtual Academy staff.
A Full Battle Creek Public Schools Experience
The Virtual Academy is a full Battle Creek Public Schools program. Students are held to the same academic standards as students who attend in person.
Real coursework, real expectations
Students complete a full BCPS curriculum aligned with state standards. Grades and progress are tracked.
A path to college
Graduates can qualify for the Bearcat Advantage, which covers up to 100% of college tuition at eligible Michigan colleges and HBCUs nationwide.
Full access to BCPS activities
Sports, clubs, fine arts, and in-person electives, just like any other BCPS student.
A Path to College
The Bearcat Advantage Scholarship
Students who live within the Battle Creek Public Schools district may qualify for the Bearcat Advantage scholarship, which covers up to 100% of college tuition and fees at eligible Michigan colleges and HBCUs nationwide.
Up to 100% of college Tuition Covered
Public four-year colleges and universities in Michigan, top private colleges in Michigan, and nearly 100 HBCUs nationwide
Enroll today and experience the Bearcat Advantage!
The longer a Bearcat attends BCPS, the bigger the scholarship they can receive.
About Acellus
Students at the Virtual Academy complete their coursework through the Acellus Learning System, an online curriculum used by thousands of school districts across the country.
How Acellus works
Acellus delivers each lesson as a short video, usually five to ten minutes long, followed by practice questions that check what the student has learned. The system tracks every student's progress and adjusts the pace based on how they are doing. If a student is struggling with a concept, Acellus identifies the gap and provides targeted help. If a student already understands the material, they can keep moving forward.
What Acellus covers
Acellus offers a full curriculum across math, language arts, science, social studies, and electives. It also includes Advanced Placement courses, special education courses, and credit recovery options. The system is developed by the International Academy of Science, a nonprofit organization that has been creating educational content for over 30 years.
How BCPS uses Acellus
The Virtual Academy uses Acellus as the curriculum platform, but BCPS staff supervise each student, provide one-on-one support, monitor progress, and step in when a student needs help. Acellus is the tool. BCPS staff are the teachers.
A Day at the Virtual Academy
Learning happens at home, on a schedule that works for your family. Here is what to expect.
Self-paced coursework, with structure
Students follow a recommended weekly pace, but their schedule is flexible. They can complete coursework in the morning, evening, or on weekends. There is no daily log-in time to keep up with.
Real support when students need it
Dedicated BCPS Virtual Academy teachers and staff are available throughout the school year. They answer questions and give one-on-one help. Students can also get in-person support at our learning hub inside the Battle Creek Area Math and Science Center.
In-person only when it counts
Students come to a BCPS building for required state testing and any time they want in-person support. The rest of the time, learning happens wherever they are.
Enrollment for fall 2026 is open