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AUGUST 2004

Christa McAuliffe Academy
Offers A Personal Touch for Distance Learning

On the surface, it looked like any high school prom. Students entered through an ivy archway, the music roared, and the lights danced around the tiny mirror-walled ballroom. Rather than dancing however, many of the more than 20 teens attending Christa McAuliffe Academy’s senior prom, opted to spend their time chasing each other through the halls, grazing from the food tables, or sitting in corners chatting.

Several prom goers explained; most of them are scattered around the world and only get to meet each other in person once a year for special school events. This is because Christa McAuliffe is not a traditional school. Christa McAuliffe Academy is one of the first and most premiere on-line learning institutions for grades K-12. Headquartered in Yahima, Washington, the school has been in existence for over 20 years. Christa McAuliffe Academy, named in honor of the teacher who died tragically in the space shuttle Challenger explosion in 1986, prides itself on offer personal quality education.

CMA assigns a certified online “mentor” to each student. The mentor offers personalized and individual guidance to each student while he/she is attending the school. This mentor, not only by e-mail but also by utilizing our highly advanced virtual classroom environment that incorporates the best text and voice features the Internet has to offer.

CMA has the distinction of being the only accredited distance learning school to have vClass for group discussion and interaction with peers. vClass is an advanced technology system used to conduct scheduled weekly online classes for all full-time students. The vClass system provides ample opportunity for the students to learn and exchange ideas, to practice communication skills, and to get to know each other and their mentor in real time. It also provides opportunities for each student to prepare and present lessons or projects.

CMA Model also adheres to the concept of parent involvement in the learning process. They expect a commitment from students and parents to accept responsibility for learning outcomes. Students are empowered to learn at their own pace, so they must take responsibility for setting and maintaining appropriate study habits and schedules. Parents take an active part, monitoring daily progress and giving encouragement and support when needed.

The total model seems to work! Jennifer Scott, a recent graduate testifies, “CMA has given me a sense of accomplishment in my school work, the drive and focus to reach my goals. Caring teachers, administration, and staff really made the difference for me…I had a chance to meet students online from all over the US and the World.” A great testimonial for any school!#

For information on Christa McAuliffe Academy call 1-866-575-4989, or visit our website at www.cmacademy.org.

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