About the Virtual Academy of Rochester

The Virtual Academy of Rochester offers programming for students enrolled in high schools throughout the Rochester City School District. In order to participate, a student must be enrolled in the Rochester City School District and enrolled in one of the high schools. During the school day, students take online courses in the VAR lab, where the teachers rotate throughout the district. Most students will see their course teacher in person at least once a week at their school.

The Virtual Academy of Rochester (VAR) began in September 2014 with a mission of offering instruction to students in an innovative, non-traditional, virtual environment. The use of technology as the main form of instructional delivery allows students to receive instruction and feedback tailored to their own unique learning needs, promoting the simultaneous acquisition of content knowledge, and independent study skills.

The Virtual Academy of Rochester offers several types of courses, including:

Online Credit Recovery (for a previously failed class)

Online Initial Credit

Online AP Courses

Online Dual Credit Courses (for college credit)

Some other programs for unique circumstances in RCSD.

The Rochester City School District does not discriminate on the basis of an individual's actual or perceived race, color, religion, creed, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship status, age, marital status, partnership status, disability, predisposing genetic characteristics, sexual orientation, gender (sex), military status, veteran status, domestic violence victim status or political affiliation, and additionally does not discriminate against students on the basis of weight, gender identity, gender expression, and religious practices or any other basis prohibited by New York State and/or federal non-discrimination laws in employment or its programs and activities. The District provides equal access to community and youth organizations.