General FAQs

MODA is a statewide virtual school program of the Laquey R-V School District authorized by the Missouri Course Access and Virtual School Program (MOCAP) law. MODA is a public school option for eligible students throughout Missouri. The program uses qualified teachers, curriculum, and innovative technology to enhance the learning experience. MODA also offers support like a brick-and-mortar public school, such as tutoring, guidance counselors, and college and career readiness.

MODA offers full-time enrollment for grades K-12

Because MODA is a public school program, there is no tuition. We provide Missouri-certified teachers and instructional materials. Qualified families may receive a loaner computer and printer. These computer systems are instructional property and must be returned when the student leaves MODA. Families are responsible for providing some common household materials (such as printer ink and paper). Our enrollment consultants can help address your technological and computer questions and needs.

No, MODA is a full-time virtual school program and does not enroll students part-time or for individual courses. Students remain in their resident district but receive instruction from MODA’s teachers in a virtual setting. Students comply with all public school requirements, such as state testing and attendance, and follow the graduation requirements of their local district or charter school.

Language arts, math, science, and history are the core courses. There are also courses in the appropriate grade levels, such as music, art, physical education, health, and Missouri history. Career readiness exploratory courses are offered in middle school, and high school students can take career-focused electives through career and college prep. Visit our elementary, middle school, and high school academics pages for more details.

Yes. We provide textbooks and instructional materials, which are dependent on the student’s grade level and the courses they’re enrolled in. High school students receive fewer books and materials than elementary and middle school students.

In the younger grades, many of the online lessons include offline work. Students in grades K–2 spend about 30–40% of their time on the computer, while students in grades 3–5 spend about 50–60% of their time online. Screen time increases in middle school, and by high school, most of the school day is online. Students also do hands-on science experiments, read novels, and complete math problems that are done without the computer.

We believe in a balanced approach toward education. Computers help us provide you with effective assessment, planning, and time-management tools. Computers also act as powerful teaching tools that can motivate, stimulate, and inform children about the world around them. They do not, however, replace a solid education. Rather, they help facilitate one. That’s why we use a unique multimedia approach that also includes traditional books, workbooks, and instructional materials.

The elementary program is self-paced and flexible within the parameters specified by state law and student needs, based on benchmark assessments taken at the beginning of the school year. Middle school and high school students complete lessons in synchronous and asynchronous sessions and are expected to complete quizzes, tests, and other assignments in a timely manner.

MODA offers career and college prep, which combines traditional high school academics with industry-relevant, career-focused courses to help students gain real world skills. Students also have access to a web-based platform that connects students with employers and colleges across the country.

Yes, MODA enrolls students who may need to catch up. MODA provides supports to help students reach their full potential and make progress year over year.

MODA provides accommodations, modifications, and assistive technology supports for students with disabilities according to current Individualized Educational Plans (IEPs) and 504 Plans developed by a student’s resident school district. To discuss your child’s needs, please contact our special programs manager.

The beauty of our program is that it is flexible enough to meet children where they are in any given subject and take them where they want to go. Grade placement assessments, completed as part of the enrollment process, allow us to place your student in the appropriate level of curriculum. So, for example, if your fourth grader is doing math on a sixth-grade level and reading on a fourth-grade level, we can tailor lesson plans to meet your student’s abilities.

Teachers develop an Individualized Learning Plan for each student based on their academic needs. Teachers work closely with students to help pace the curriculum to meet goals for advancement.

Throughout the year, students will be invited to participate in school outings, field trips (e.g., to historical sites, museums, zoos), picnics, and other social events. Local groups of students and parents can get together on their own. Local students and parents can get together on a regular basis in their areas. Students can also take advantage of a wide variety of online clubs to connect with peers who share similar interests and passions.

Like traditional brick-and-mortar schools, MODA provides student supports and counselors to help address students’ social and emotional needs, including being a victim of bullying or experiencing depression, suicidal thoughts, or difficulties at home. MODA’s educators are also trained in crisis prevention and how to identify and address issues when they come up.

There are no home visits as part of the program and no other intrusions into your home.

All graduating students receive a diploma from their home school district.