Local family enjoys online public school

HAMILTON - As students head back to school, a new alternative to the education system is making its way through the Tri-State.

Commercials have been airing recently for the Ohio Virtual Academy (OHVA).

It is a free public school that lets parents borrow a computer and all the text books and supplies the student may need. However, parents must pay for their own internet connection.

Hamilton mom and former teacher Patty Elwell has had her two children in OHVA for seven years now. Her daughter Madeleine is going to 9th grade, and son, Jacob, is a senior planning to go to a traditional college.

Elwell decided to take her children out of traditional school because she wanted more of a challenging education where there were not any distractions that may come with a classroom setting.

"My concern is curriculum and academics and I really wanted the kids to have a strong academic background. I wanted them to be able to work without interruption and that was key for us," Elwell said.

The reasons parents choose OHVA varies. Some have children who are getting bullied or students with learning disabilities who are not getting the attention they need. Teen moms are able to go to class with their child standing by and the program offers flexibility to active students, such as professional gymnasts.

Madeleine said she enjoys the live interaction with her teachers.

"You can interact through the mic, and there's a chat box and you can raise your hand... you press a button," she said.

When it comes to younger students, a learning partner such as a parent or grandparent is needed to help with the teaching process and grading until the students can get old enough to take their own classes.

The Ohio Virtual Academy recently received an Effective rating by the Ohio Department of Education and offers honors and AP courses.

If interested, the deadline to enroll is Monday, Aug. 29, 2011.

To learn more information, go to the OHVA web site: www.k12.com