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Frequently Asked Questions

General

Enrollment

Technology Requirements

Academic Program

Extracurricular Activities




General

  • Why was Provost Academy created?

    Provost Academy was created to address the need for a challenging and flexible education option for students who want or need something different from traditional high schools. Thousands of parents, students, and community members have voiced the need for the type of public school option that Provost Academy provides. Provost Academy strives to keep students interested in and excited about school, and allows flexibility in a student schedules. These qualities are likely to help increase graduation rates, which are as low as 50% amongst some populations. The reasons Provost Academy might be a better choice for students are broad. Gifted students who seek a more challenging and diverse curriculum will enjoy the customized pacing and a broad selection of advanced courses. Students who are easily distracted by peers or feel unsafe at school may be more focused at Provost. Students who need their own pace or more individual attention may find a good fit with our individual learning plans. The flexible schedule at Provost Academy may be a perfect fit for the wide variety of students whose obligations to family, work, or extracurricular activities require a greater degree of freedom in when and how they learn. At Provost Academy, every student can succeed.

Enrollment

  • Who can enroll?

    Provost Academy is a public high school open to all students who are eligible to begin the 9th - 12th grade. All students must be residents of the state of Colorado.  Students must be 20 years of age or younger on October 1st of the school year for which they are enrolling. Students who turn 21 years old after October 1st may remain enrolled until they complete that school year.  Students enrolling for the 2nd semester must be eligible for grades 9 thru 11 and be 20 years of age or younger on October 1st 2012.  Note that students enrolling for the 2nd semester will not receive a technology package and must demonstrate ability to provide access to a computer that meets the minimum specifications and other required technology as a condition of enrollment.

  • When should I enroll?

    Provost Academy operates on a similar timeline to traditional high schools. Enrollment for the fall semester takes place in the spring and summer prior to the fall start. Open enrollment begins April 1st, and classes will begin in mid-August. It is preferred that students enroll for the entire academic year (August - June), but Provost Academy will continue to accept late enrollments thru late September if space allows, and may accept a limited number of students mid-year.

  • Can I enroll mid year?

    Provost Academy Colorado will accept qualified students as space allows until late September provided they complete the full enrollment process and meet with an advisor to establish a viable academic plan by that date.  Following that time applicants will be placed on a waitlist in the order they were received, and a small number of students may be enrolled for the 2nd semester of the school year.   

  • Am I guaranteed enrollment?

    Applicants who meet all eligibility requirements and complete the full enrollment process will be granted enrollment as space allows.  Applicants will complete an application either via phone or internet, then submit all required documentation, and speak with an enrollment specialist to ensure all preliminary steps of enrollment are complete. The prospective student will then be contacted by an academic advisor who will work with the family to establish an individual learning plan and ensure that online learning is a good fit for the student.  When all of these steps have been completed, the student will be granted enrollment as space allows.  If the school reaches maximum capacity, students who complete the enrollment process after the date when capacity was reached will be placed on a waitlist in the order their completed documentation was received and will be admitted as space becomes available. 

    Provost Academy does not anticipate a lottery situation, but if the school has met enrollment capacity by May 15th, 2011, a lottery will be held on or before June 1st, 2011.  If a lottery is needed, those not selected by the lottery, or who complete the enrollment process after May 15th, will be placed on a waitlist in the order their completed documentation was received.

  • What if my student was expelled from another school?

    Students who have previously been expelled, but are currently enrolled in another school will be considered for enrollment with Provost Academy.

  • Can I enroll part time or have dual enrollment?

    Students may be allowed to enroll part-time. Certain rules and restrictions apply. Ask an enrollment specialist for more details. Students may also be allowed to enroll in college or junior college courses while also attending Provost Academy.  Permission for dual enrollment may be granted on a cases-by-case basis if state guidelines permit, and must be approved by the student's advisor.

  • How many classes does a student need to take at once?

    Students generally take 5-7 credits per year. Each student's pacing and course load will be determined with their academic advisor. Students must enroll for at least the minimum number of credits required to stay on pace for high school graduation, however, many students will be encouraged to pursue a college preparatory program, which will likely include more courses than the minimum.

  • Can I purchase Provost Academy courses as a supplement to my child's current education without enrolling in Provost Academy?

    We do not currently offer individual families the ability to purchase courses directly from Provost.

  • Is there a cost?

    Provost Academy is a free public high school just like the one you would attend at your local school district. There is no tuition. As with most schools, there may be minimal costs to families for optional extracurricular activities and fieldtrips, and peripherals like binders, pens, etc.  In cases where a student does not have access to required computer equipment, Provost Academy may be able to loan the equipment to the student, and provide a subsidy to the family to off-set some internet costs.  This is usually based on financial need.  Contact an enrollment specialist for further details about qualification. 

Technology Requirements

  • What technology do students need?

    To attend Provost Academy students must have a computer that meets minimum specifications (see technology reference guide for details) with uninterrupted access to high-speed internet.  Other recommended but not required items include: a USB Tablet to allow writing on the computer during live instruction, a headset with microphone, and a printer.  In some cases, where students do not have access to the essential equipment, Provost Academy may loan a computer to an enrolling family.  This determination is usually based on financial need and will take place during the enrollment process.

  • My child does not have access to a computer and I cannot afford to purchase one. Is there anything that I can do?

    In some cases, usually based on economic need, families may be able to borrow a computer from Provost Academy while they are enrolled.  For complete details, please contact an enrollment specialist.

  • We are looking to purchase a new computer.  Is there a brand or model you recommend?

    Buying a home computer is an individual choice and families should purchase the computer that best meets their personal needs. We understand that price is usually a major decision point in selecting a computer, however before purchasing a computer at the low-end end of the price spectrum, please ensure it meets the minimum specifications (see above) required to attend Provost Academy. As long as the computer meets the minimum specifications, there is not necessarily a recommended brand or model. All major manufacturers – Dell, Lenovo, HP, Acer, etc. – should offer a model that meets or exceeds the specifications. While some Netbooks may allow for successful access to Provost Academy resources we do not recommend purchasing a Netbook for the purpose of attending Provost Academy. Also, note that Provost Academy is not Mac-compatible at this time. 

    To learn more about home computer options parents can visit the TopTenReviews.com website at http://computers.toptenreviews.com/home/ or visit their local computer store (CompUSA, BestBuy, RadioShack, Office Depot, Staples, etc).

  • Do you cover the cost of internet?

    All students enrolled in Provost Academy must have access to a high speed internet connection. In some cases, Provost Academy offers a limited subsidy (per family) to offset a portion of their internet costs. Families who qualify for free and reduced lunch may also qualify for Internet Essentials, a low-cost basic high speed internet provider. Our enrollment specialists are happy to provide details about qualification for these subsidies.  Families will be responsible for setting up service and installation on their own. Provost Academy is happy to provide contact information for internet providers if needed.

  • How do I return my computer at the end of the school year or graduation?

    Qualifying students who are borrowing computer equipment from the school will be allowed to keep the computer equipment for the entire time they are enrolled at Provost Academy. All equipment is required to be returned at the time the student graduates or officially withdraws from the program. Self-addressed mailing materials will be provided at the time the student withdraws or graduates.

  • What if my child's computer is lost, stolen, or damaged?

    The student/parent must notify the school within five days of the occurrence or discovery of any theft, damage, destruction, or other loss of any school-owned computer equipment. The student/parent may be responsible for any costs associated with repairing or replacing lost, stolen, or damaged equipment while in the student's possession, as agreed to in their equipment use contract. If personal equipment is lost or stolen, the family should contact the appropriate local authorities, and also alert their advisor if there will be a delay in completing schoolwork. 

  • How do you protect the safety of my child online?

    Within the student portal and online community, all student activity is closely monitored by instructors to insure that no inappropriate content is posted. Provost Academy does not provide internet filtering for students who will be using personally-owned computers. Monitoring of student internet browsing on a personal computer is the sole responsibility of each student’s parent/guardian. Provost Academy does recommend that parents/guardians install internet filtering on their home computer. There are many high-quality commercial products available for purchase ranging from $25 - $50. Some of the more popular home filtering products include: Net Nanny Parental Controls, Safe Eyes, CYBERSitter, MacAfee Parental Controls and CyberPatrol.

    To learn more about home filtering options parents can visit the TopTenReviews.com website (http://internet-filter-review.toptenreviews.com/) or visit their local computer store (CompUSA, BestBuy, RadioShack, Office Depot, Staples, etc).

    In cases where a student is using a loaned laptop from the school, internet protection software will be installed which limits sites that students can access, and what can be downloaded to their computer. The internet filtering product used by Provost Academy provides the level of filtering required by both CIPA (Children’s Internet Protection Act) and Protecting Children in the 21st Century Acts.

  • What computer skills do students need?

    It is expected that students will have basic computer skills such as knowledge of internet navigation, word processing, and email. If students need extra assistance in these areas, it can be provided. Training will be provided to all students and parents in the use of the Provost Academy software systems prior to the start of classes.

Academic Program

  • Will students earn a high school diploma?

    Yes.  If all graduation requirements are met, including passing any required exams, students will earn the same high school diploma they would from a traditional high school.

  • How does Provost Academy adapt learning to my child's needs?

    Every family will be assigned an academic advisor before they begin classes at Provost Academy.  During the enrollment process, the advisor will meet with each family to create an individualized learning plan for the student.  The student’s prior academic record, goals, and learning needs will all be considered in creating the plan, and the plan will be adapted by your advisor as needed throughout the year based on the student's pace, performance and assessment results.

  • Does Provost Academy offer Advanced Placement (AP) or honors courses?

    Provost Academy offers a wide variety of AP courses. Students should discuss their interest in AP courses with their academic advisor while establishing their personal learning plan. Students must show academic readiness before beginning an AP course.  Provost Academy Colorado does not offer honors courses at this time. 

    For a full list courses, see the available course list.  Please note that course selection is subject to change and all courses may not be offered every year or every term. 

    To further provide our students with a competitive edge, Provost Academy also offers SAT preparatory courses, and is in the process of submitting the full catalog of courses to the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) for review and approval.

  • My child is an exceptional learner, has special needs, a disability, or is an English Language Learner. Is Provost Academy able to accommodate these students?

    Provost Academy reaches out to all students. The Individual Education Programs (IEPs) of exceptional learners and students with special needs will be reviewed by a committee, including staff and the parents, to discuss the educational needs of the student.  This meeting will also seek to determine if education in an online environment is an appropriate fit for the student.  To arrange a meeting to discuss your student's IEP please contact an enrollment specialist. Significant portions of the Provost Academy curriculum are dependent upon reading comprehension skills.  If you are unsure as to your student's readiness, it is best to discuss your student's language proficiency and reading level with an academic advisor prior to enrollment.    

  • Will textbooks be provided?

    Yes, each course includes a customized PDF textbook, which can be printed or used on the computer depending on the student's preference. Additional text materials may also be provided for some classes.

  • How do students do lab work for science courses?

    Labs are performed in a flash-based virtual environment where students can easily experience the concepts and extend their exploration beyond the lesson. All labs meet or exceed state requirements.

  • How do students meet physical education requirements?

    Physical education has two components, learning about health and fitness concepts and the necessary components for a healthy lifestyle, and doing actual physical activity. Students will learn the concepts in online classes, and will perform physical activities which they will record in a fitness journal. Students may also be able to fulfill state physical education requirements through participation on local athletic teams or individual sports. Check with your advisor for specific state requirements.

  • How will my student interact with and be supported by the staff at Provost Academy?

    A vital contributor to a student's academic success at Provost Academy is the student's academic advisor. The advisor's primary objective is to make sure each one of his/her students is making progress and meeting or exceeding his/her academic goals. Students are required to interact with their advisor at least once a week through phone or e-mail. If the advisor finds the student is getting off track, he/she will address the problem immediately with the student, parent, and teachers as necessary. Students also work closely with teachers who focus on the student’s performance in each given class. Teachers communicate with students and families about class performance and provide individual instruction on subject-specific questions. Teachers also provide live classes or small group instruction, answers student questions, grade assignments, and give feedback.

  • Are Provost Academy teachers certified?

    Yes, all Provost Academy instructional staff hold, at minimum, a bachelor's degree and the high school teaching credentials required by the state. Many instructors also have graduate degrees.

  • How do you prevent cheating?

    With our proprietary user tracking software, we can see exactly which contents of lessons were accessed and for how long. Analysis of this data can help to ensure students are using the content properly. Also, our software tracks scores from daily assessments, which allows advisors and parents to know immediately if students truly understand the material. A combination of multiple choice testing, and more creative assignments also help to ensure that students are submitting their own work, and are understanding the material properly. Provost Academy also provides teachers with anti-plagiarism software to ensure that the student’s writing assignments are their own.

  • How does Provost Academy report academic progress?

    From their homepage, students, parents and instructional staff can easily see up-to-the-minute grades, progress, incomplete assignments, and achievement alerts (when a student falls behind in a given content area) 24 hours a day. Progress is also discussed between the family and the academic advisor regularly to ensure that students are achieving their academic goals.

  • What if my child is falling behind?

    At Provost Academy, students take assessments daily so students, parents, advisors, and teachers know immediately when a student falls behind. If a student fails to meet proficiency in a given area, an alert is automatically sent to the student, teacher and advisor, and is viewable by parents. The advisor will work with the student, parents, and teachers to determine the cause of the issue and assign an appropriate course of action to correct it immediately. When a student falls behind in grades or completion of assignments, students, parents, and teachers can see this immediately from their home pages and act to solve the issue.

  • What is the expected role of parents?

    At Provost Academy we equip parents to guide, motivate, and monitor their student's progress.  Our goal is to make it easy for parents to take an active role by staying informed about the curriculum and their student's achievement. With our Parent Portal, each parent receives a log-in which gives them access to all of the relevant information about student progress from a single homepage. Parents at Provost Academy are not required to provide direct instruction or tutoring like they might in some other online programs.

  • What does Provost Academy do to make sure students are prepared for college?

    In addition to meeting minimum graduation requirements, students will be encouraged to pursue a college preparatory education. Career and college counseling will be offered to students, especially in grades 10-12. Students will be provided information about: PSAT, SAT, and ACT prep, college applications, and college selection. SAT preparation courses are also available to all students.

  • How does Provost Academy support gifted and talented students?

    Provost Academy can be a good choice for gifted students because it allows these students to move through material at an accelerated pace, to attempt more difficult coursework, and to access challenging courses not available at other schools. Provost Academy also provides students with the opportunity to extend their learning with additional projects, as well as the flexibility of schedule to pursue their interests/talents in greater depth in activities or competitions outside of school.

  • Are students required to take standardized tests?

    Yes. Provost Academy is a public high school, so students will be required to take the same state-mandated exams as other high school students, including annual testing, and any requirement to pass the exit exams to earn a high school diploma.These exams must be taken at school-proctored facilities and will require students to travel to these sites on specific testing dates.  Participation is mandatory.

  • Is Provost Academy the same as home schooling?

    No. Provost Academy is not home school. It is a public high school attended primarily from the home (or anywhere else the family chooses). The academic program follows all state standards and guidelines, including the use of certified teachers and standardized testing.

Extracurricular Activities

  • Will there be opportunities for socialization and extracurricular activities?

    Yes. At Provost Academy, we aim to foster well-rounded students. We provide opportunities for students to be involved in school clubs, career speakers, service learning, field trips, and other community gathering events. The activities offered each year will be directly based on the interests of the students, parents, and staff and may change from year to year.

  • Can students participate in sports and other programs at a local high school?

    If a student wants to participate in any extracurricular activity not offered by Provost Academy, she/he may participate at a school in her/his district of residence. If the activity is also not offered in the student's district of residence, students may participate in a contiguous district. Parents must initiate this participation with the district of residence, and Provost Academy will help facilitate when possible.