Portsmouth Public Schools (PPS) Online Course Offerings
For students in grades 9 through 12, Portsmouth Public Schools offers online courses during the summer school session as an alternative to the traditional face-to-face educational setting. Starting this fall, the Online Economics and Personal Finance course is being piloted in three classes at Norcom High School. This class will also be added to the Summer School 2013 list of course offerings.
Courses are delivered using the Desire2Learn Learning Management System (LMS), in a “blended” environment where students receive their instruction in both the face-to-face (F2F) and online settings. This blended approach combines the best elements of both instructional methods in order to provide our students with a rich learning experience. Our staff is comprised of fully certified teachers who have also received specialized training in order to teach virtual classes.
Taking online courses requires excellent time management skills, the ability to work independently, self motivation, and basic computer skills. Students must also have access “at home” to a reliable computer with Internet access. Lack of ownership of a home computer will not exclude a student from taking PPS Online courses. Contact your school’s guidance counselor for information regarding online courses for the upcoming summer school session.
Online Offerings: (Future course offerings will be posted as they become available)
- English 9
- English 10
- English 12
- US Government
- Geometry
Online instruction also is available to students through VDOE’s Virtual Virginia program, which offers pre Advanced Placement (AP), honors and AP courses and certain academic electives and world languages for students who otherwise would be unable to take these courses due to a lack of availability or scheduling conflicts within their school.
Students may enroll in Virtual Virginia courses provided they meet all PPS academic requirements. Students interested in enrolling in Virtual Virginia courses should contact their school’s guidance counselor. For more information about Virtual Virginia, visit Virtual Virginia's web site.