VirtualEDU

Our enrollment window is now open for second semester. If you would like to transition between online and in-person learning formats, you can apply to do so. The transition will take place the first day of second-semester, which is January 24, 2022.  We have two pathways for scholars, and their caregivers, to join VirtualEDU.

More information on how to apply for the 2022-23 school year will be made available soon. 

In-District Transfer Request

The first pathway is for current Hopkins families through the In-District Transfer Request process, with a semester commitment. Current VirtualEDU families may also utilize this process to request an In-District Transfer to an in-person learning environment.

This process can be found on our Enroll section of the website.
In-District Transfer Request applications will be accepted and processed as space permits.

Please follow the drop-down directions titled: We live in the District but want our child to attend a school other than their assigned school (In-District Transfer). Indicate your school preference as VirtualEDU with a semester commitment in the '21-'22 school year.

For help with the in-district transfer process, please contact Deb Pauly at Deborah.Pauly@HopkinsSchools.org.

Open Enrollment process

The Open Enrollment process is for our new-to-Hopkins families with a school year commitment. This process can be found on our Enroll section of the website.

Please follow the drop-down directions titled: We live outside of the Hopkins Public School District 270's district boundary (Open Enrollment).

• Step 1: Complete the Open Enrollment application and be accepted to Hopkins Public Schools.
• Step 2: Enroll into Hopkins Public Schools.
• Step 3: Indicate your school preference as Online Royal Academy with a 1-year commitment in the '21-'22 school year.

For help with the Open Enrollment into the VirtualEDU process, please contact our talented Enrollment Team at Enrollment@hopkinsschools.org, Pat Wright at Patricia.Wright@HopkinsSchools.org and VirtualEDU@HopkinsSchools.org. Families will be assigned a 'physical home school' based upon available space. VirtualEDU, in partnership with our physical school building leadership and our Hopkins Enrollment Team, will accept and process enrollment as space permits.

Our current program addresses an immediate need for some families and scholars in our community to continue learning online due to the pandemic. For other families, our survey data also shows a desire for more flexible programming and blended learning opportunities regardless of the risks associated with COVID-19. The Online Royal Academy provides an equitable, student-centered, innovative learning experience in alignment with Vision 2031.

Similar to ‘20-’21 Distance Learning

• Remote learning
• Combination of synchronous (live) instruction and asynchronous (self-paced) independent work
• Curriculum that meets state standards and graduation requirements
• Highly qualified staff dedicated to online learning who build caring relationships with students and create peer-to-peer connections among them
• Secondary students will have opportunities to participate in Minnesota State High School League-sponsored activities at one of our high schools
• Elementary students will connect to a virtual classroom through Seesaw and/or Canvas
• Secondary students will connect to a virtual classroom through Canvas.

Different in VirtualEDU

• Remote learning will be supported with optional in-person learning opportunities
• VirtualEDU will be a regular stand-alone school choice option
• VirtualEDU makes intentional moves to incorporate Restorative Practices and SEL through synchronous and asynchronous learning community experiences for all K-12 scholars. We will expand Intentional and amplified wrap around supports for all online students.
• Schedule blocks will be a combination of guided inquiry, direct instruction, collaborative practice, assessment, Restorative Practice (SEL) and off screen independent practice and application.

Learning experiences will include rich synchronous and asynchronous learning built into each day. Scholars will have access to extracurricular activities and athletics through the physical school buildings and community. Content and instruction includes greater emphasis on personalization and opportunities for project based learning based on the MN Standards. Here is a sneak peek at some special events where we realize Vision 2031 in a virtual setting through community building, restorative practices and personalized learning - showcasing the learning priorities for Hopkins Public Schools.

VirtualEDU Special Event Examples:

• Drive-Thru Open House
• Meet-and-Greets @ Burnes Park and via Google Meet
• Home Visits Free
• Food Truck Family Meals
• Elementary Outdoor Park Meetup
• Junior High Project-Based Learning Interviews with a hydrogeologist, Dr. Mhiripiri-Reed, and the Coordinator of Concordia’s Language Programs
• High School Weekly Community Circles
• High School Biology Labs

Elementary Program

Scholars will experience multiage, grade-banded cohorts in grades K-6 (i.e. 1-2, 3-4, 5-6).

Junior High Program

Scholars in grades 7-9 will experience an interdisciplinary, project-based format in multiage cohorts that will include all subject areas in the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme. Scholars have choice and agency in the structure of their learning day.

High School Program

The high school experience will include synchronous online courses in core subject areas (math, social studies, science, and English/Language Arts) to meet MN graduation requirements and standards. Scholars will also work with a project-based learning coordinator to design projects that connect to their passions and interests; these projects might include real-world work study and internship opportunities, high level electives and/or AP pathways. Additionally, scholars may co-design learning experiences, similar to an independent study, for courses that are not offered as a synchronous option in VirtualEDU.

Complete the form under the attendance header on this page or call the attendance line at 952-988-4055.