Because virtual instruction can be an effective education option for some students, the Joplin School District offers virtual courses to students through district staff or by contracting for those services as part of the district-sponsored curriculum. In addition, eligible students may enroll in virtual courses offered through the Missouri Course Access Program (MOCAP). The district will accept all grades and credits earned through district-sponsored virtual instruction and MOCAP.

The district will pay the costs of a virtual course only if the district has first approved the student's enrollment in the course as described in the MOCAP policy. The student or parents/guardians will meet with the principal, counselor and Shelly Tarter, the Joplin Schools Virtual and Alternative Administrator, to discuss online options, go over virtual student requirements, and set up enrollment if accepted to ensure that the virtual courses are consistent with the student's academic goals (iCAP).

The district is not required to provide students access to or pay for courses beyond the equivalent of full-time enrollment (6 Credit Hours). The district will not provide supervision for students taking virtual courses offsite.

Students taking courses virtually are subject to district and JHS policies, procedures and rules applicable to students enrolled in traditional courses including, but not limited to, the district's discipline code and prohibitions on academic dishonesty, discrimination, harassment, bullying and cyberbullying.

Student Skills Necessary for Success in Virtual Courses
As part of eligibility for enrollment in virtual courses, school officials and parents/guardians will consider the following factors:
 

• Student has demonstrated time-management skills that indicate the student is capable of submitting assignment and completing course requirements without reminders.
• Student has demonstrated persistence in overcoming obstacles and willingness to seek assistance when needed.
• Student has demonstrated verbal or written communication skills that would allow the student to succeed in an environment where the instructor may not provide nonverbal cues to support the student’s understanding.
• Student has the necessary computer or technical skills to succeed in a virtual course.
• Student has access to technology resources to participate in a virtual course.
• Consideration of the student’s previous success (or struggle) in virtual coursework.