Missouri’s K-12 Virtual Instruction Program
MoVIP

Missouri has a statewide virtual school program. According to Missouri legislation, the Missouri K-12 Virtual Instruction Program (MoVIP) offers state-funded (free) and tuition-paid online courses to any kindergarten through grade twelve (K-12) students residing in Missouri, subject to appropriations. Requests for enrollment can be made online at the official MoVIP website http://dese.mo.gov/movip

For those who may not be familiar with online learning, MoVIP provides all K-12 Missouri students (public, private and home schooled) equal access to a wide range of coursework from any Internet-connected computer, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

FHSD Frequently Asked Questions About MoVIP:

Who can enroll in MoVIP courses?
All of Missouri’s public, private and home school students, grades K-12, are eligible for enrollment.

What courses are offered?
For a detailed listing of elementary, middle and high school courses offered, consult the official MoVIP website. http://dese.mo.gov/movip  Students may enroll on a part-time or a full-time basis.  Summer school courses are available on a tuition-paid basis only.

How do I enroll?
Parents or school officials may complete the request for enrollment form that is available on the MoVIP website. Parents may seek assistance in the enrollment process by contacting their home school’s MoVIP site facilitator or their child’s guidance counselor. Open enrollment for all Missouri students desiring to register for 2008-09 classes begins March 17, 2008.  State-funded (free) seats will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to appropriations.

What is the cost of a MoVIP course?
Missouri legislation provides for a limited number of seats, at no cost to students. For students not receiving state-funded (free) seats, a tuition program is also available.

If my child is awarded state-funded (free) seats, can they still be enrolled in FHSD full-time?
 No, students receiving state-funded (free) seats cannot be enrolled in FHSD on a full-time basis due to state educational funding laws.  FHSD students accepting state-funded (free) MoVIP seats cannot take more than 7 total year-long (14 semester) courses, FHSD and free MoVIP combined.

SPECIAL NOTE:  FHSD elementary students cannot accept state-funded (free) seats for elementary foreign language classes due to state and local educational funding regulations. FHSD elementary school students may take MoVIP foreign language classes on a tuition-paid basis only.

What if a student is not selected for a state-funded (free) seat?
For students not receiving state-funded (free) seats, a tuition program is also available. Registration of tuition students is available on a rolling basis throughout the school year.  There is no limit to the number of tuition-paid courses students may take.
MoVIP tuition costs for 2008-09:
$375 per semester elementary course
$357 per semester middle or high school course

Will credits earned through MoVIP be accepted in FHSD?
Yes, all credits earned through the successful completion of MoVIP courses will be accepted in FHSD. Students seeking a FHSD diploma must meet graduation criteria provided by state law and the policies, regulations and practices of the FHSD Board of Education. Students who have not yet enrolled in grade 9 or above and who successfully complete MoVIP high school courses will be credited with Advanced Standing on their high school transcript, but only graduation credit earned in grades 9 and above shall count towards meeting FHSD graduation requirements. It is strongly advised that FHSD students consult with their school guidance counselors in determining the correct selection of MoVIP courses.

Will MoVIP credits count toward Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) eligibility?
Yes, MoVIP credits will count toward MSHSAA eligibility. Students may earn up to 1½ MoVIP credits each semester but must also be enrolled in their home high school for at least 2 courses (1 credit) each semester to maintain eligibility. Local districts may impose additional eligibility requirements upon students wishing to compete in MSHSAA-sanctioned athletics and activities. FHSD students considering enrollment in MoVIP courses should consult with their coach or activity sponsor regarding current MSHSAA and FHSD eligibility requirements.

How are grades reported to FHSD schools?
FHSD will receive a percentage score of MoVIP coursework satisfactorily completed and letter grades will be assigned based upon school/district policy.

How are MoVIP courses structured?
MoVIP students are guided through their courses by Missouri certified teachers. Courses will be delivered over the Internet. To assure student success with virtual learning, a variety of web-based technology resources (streaming audio and video, computer animations, email, newsgroups, chat rooms, bulletin boards, digital portfolios) are provided. Teachers communicate with students and parents on a regular basis via phone, email, online chats, instant messaging, and discussion forums.  Each course adheres to the Missouri standard and grade level expectations for that area of instruction, and all students must take any state-required MAP tests.  Courses must be completed within 6 months after enrollment.

What about students with IEPs?
All of Missouri’s public, private and home school students, grades K-12, are eligible for MoVIP enrollment. MoVIP courses and instructors will honor students’ IEP accommodations.

What equipment is needed to take a MoVIP course?
An Internet-connected computer is required to take a MoVIP course. MoVIP instructors may also contact students and parents by telephone. Funding of equipment for home use is not provided.  Check the official MoVIP website for recommended system requirements: http://dese.mo.gov/movip.

What type of student is usually successful in learning online?
Students who choose to participate in online courses will need to examine their personal skills and aptitudes for taking a class online. These attributes can contribute to a student’s success: self-motivation; independent learning and problem-solving; computer literate; efficient time manager; effective written communication skills; personal commitment. Again, it is strongly advised that FHSD students consult with their school guidance counselors in determining the appropriate MoVIP courses and the likelihood of success.

Additional information may be obtained by calling your school’s MoVIP site facilitator or guidance counselor, or the Missouri Virtual Instruction Program office (573-526-4219).

Information may also be obtained directly from the official MoVIP website:
http://dese.mo.gov/movip.