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District Reviewing Virtual Learning Models

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District Reviewing Virtual Learning Models

On May 4, 2026, Bibb County Board of Education members were presented with information about reimagining virtual learning in Bibb County School District. The presentation outlined the District’s examination of virtual learning models, focusing on VIP Academy and the newly launched In School Academies (ISAs) at traditional high schools during the 2025-2026 school year. The District’s intent is to determine how best to meet student needs while ensuring strong academic outcomes, fiscal responsibility, and alignment with the District’s strategic goals. 

Background and Current Landscape  

VIP Academy was established after the COVID-19 pandemic to provide a fully virtual option for students and families. While initially serving elementary, middle, and high school students, demand has declined over time. Elementary programming has been eliminated, middle school enrollment continues to decrease, and overall VIP Academy enrollment has dropped significantly since 2024. 

In School Academies were implemented at each high school in 2025-2026 to offer flexible, school-based learning options. These include credit recovery, acceleration, alternative learning environments for students with social-emotional needs, blended learning, and fully virtual options while allowing students to remain connected to their home schools and participate in extracurricular activities. 

Key Factors 

  • VIP Academy enrollment has declined markedly, particularly at the middle and high school levels. 

  • In School Academies provide broader flexibility, stronger school connection, and fewer barriers related to transportation and access. 

  • Both models use Edgenuity for virtual coursework; however, Edgenuity costs are significantly higher at VIP Academy due to its fully virtual structure and per-student pricing model. 

  • There is notable overlap between services provided by VIP Academy and In School Academies. 

Scenarios for Consideration (Implementation in 2027-2028)  

Three potential paths forward have been presented for discussion: 

  1. Transition VIP Academy students to their home school In School Academies, with VIP Academy staff reassigned to vacant district positions. 

  1. Transition VIP Academy students and some VIP Academy teachers to In School Academies, with VIP Academy staff reassigned to vacant district positions. 

  1. Maintain VIP Academy, with VIP Academy staff continuing to serve VIP Academy students and providing oversight for virtual components at high schools. 

All scenarios include a planning year during 2026-2027, with implementation beginning in 2027-2028. 

Next Steps  

The District will gather stakeholder feedback, including programming preferences, student needs, structural considerations, and financial implications, and use this input to develop a formal recommendation to present to the Board at a later date. 

Feedback 

Community will be invited to participate in meetings to provide feedback, but stakeholders also may submit feedback via the District’s Let’s Talk initiative.