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BCS VAL is a newly approved public school in the Birmingham City Schools district for grades 3-12. BCS students must submit an application on the district's website. If the student is selected and accepted into the virtual school, parents/guardians will be notified via email. Please read the information located below which answers the question of, "Can I just transfer my student to the Virtual Academy of Learning?".
Click Here for 2023-24 English Application Haga clic aquí para la solicitud en español 2023-24
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Intersession Registration Instructions
Please click the link below to register your student(s) for the 2023 Spring Intersession. Make sure to choose spring instead of winter.
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Student and Parent Powerschool Access
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New Course Request Instruction
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Why Choose VAL?
Accredited & Rigorous Curriculum
• Standards Based Learning
• State Certified Teachers
• Synchronous and Asynchronous Learning
• Innovative Practices and Teaching
• Self-paced Learning
• Flexible Daily School Schedule
•Access to course work from anywhere at anytime
•Academic Support available until 7 p.m.
•Enjoy the Benefits & Services of a BCS Student
• Robust Course Offerings
• AP & Advanced Courses (6-12)
•Foreign Language offerings (3-12)• Safe & Student-centered Learning Environment
• Personalized Learning Experience
• Targeted Academic Support & Success
• Credentialing -
Can I just transfer my student to the Virtual Academy of Learning?
Sometimes, life serves us with challenges that we want to quickly move away from to what may seem to be an obvious and better solution. However, there are still processes we must endure and rules we must follow.
When your student's application is submitted, there are several steps that must be taken to ensure that Virtual Academy of Learning is the best educational platform for the success of the student. There are several factors that are required for a student's consideration. Once it is determined that all factors and considerations are or are not in alignment for the success of the student, the parent will receive an email with the application update that will read "SELECTED" or "Non-Select" in the subject line. Most of the time, the email goes to the SPAM folder. Therefore, it is important to watch the SPAM folder for an email that may be from an email address that reads, "noreplyregistration@powerschool.com". All applications are accepted. Not all are selected.
It is the responsibility of the parent to make sure the email address put on the application is correct.
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Where do I apply?
You can apply by clicking the link above to submit an application.
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Who delivers the instruction?
Instruction will be delivered virtually by Alabama certified teachers working through the state-approved learning management system. Students must be supported by an adult in the house to ensure academic success.
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Does BCS VAL offer IB, AP, advanced courses for students?
AP and advanced courses will be offered in grades 6-12. IB courses will not be offered for students.
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Can students enroll in ACCESS to receive high school credit?
Yes, students can enroll in ACCESS (Alabama Connecting Classrooms, Educators & Students Statewide) to receive credit.
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What about devices and internet access?
Each student will be issued a BCS-owned electronic device along with instructions on how to navigate an online learning environment if it is desired. Wi-Fi devices are also available for students when needed. All devices are to be returned before graduation for 12th Grade and by June 10, 2023 for all other grade levels.
For device return, first time pick-up, or damaged device exchange, book an appointment here: Devices and Wi-Fi
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How will students take standardized tests?
Students will be required to take all high-stakes assessments in-person at a BCS designated building.
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Is there a cost for BCS VAL?
No. BCS VAL is a public school free to students within the BCS district. Students outside the district will pay an out of district fee.
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Where do I find technical support?
Students in need of technical support, assistance with claiming their account, and/or BCS email address and password issues can call the Help Desk at 205-231-4747 or via email it@bhm.k12.al.us.
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Who do I contact if I have questions?
Contacts for the BCS virtual program are Ms. Jessica Wedgeworth, Principal, at jwedgewort@bhm.k12.al.us and Ms. Le'Sean Dial-Ameyme, Administrative Secretary, at ldialameyme@bhm.k12.al.us . The phone number to the school is 205-231-6024.
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Who can students and parents contact for educational support?
Contact the Ed Tech department 205-231-9994 or visit the website for Educational Technology/Student & Parent Help Desk here.