Academics
Online High School Academics
Give your teen the flexibility to thrive at Arizona Virtual Academy (AZVA), an accredited online high school where certified teachers tailor the K12 curriculum to support college, career, and personal goals.
Why choose online high school at Arizona Virtual Academy?
At Arizona Virtual Academy, we understand that high school is a pivotal time for teens. Our tuition-free Arizona online high school offers a safe, supportive, and academically rigorous environment that prepares students for what’s next—college, career, or both.
- Flexible Schedules: Ideal for teens balancing academics with extracurriculars, work, sports, or family commitments.
- Trusted Curriculum: We use a high-quality, proven curriculum from K12’s 25+ years of expertise in online education, tailoring it for our students here in Arizona.
- Cognia-Accredited School: Meets Arizona high school standards and supports graduation requirements nationwide.
- Arizona-certified Teachers: Provide expert instruction, mentorship, and support.
- Career and College Prep: Includes targeted career pathways, preparations for career certification exams, and optional dual enrollment at Rio Salada Community College on select courses for eligible high school students.
Explore Our Accredited Online High School
Preparing Teens for What’s Next
High school is the perfect time for your teen to explore their interests. AZVA offers career pathways, certification exam prep, and dual enrollment opportunities. With in-person events like career training, prom, and graduation, your teen will gain skills and memories that last a lifetime.
Learning Options by Grade Level
Arizona Virtual Academy’s Arizona-accredited online high school serves students in grades 9–12, giving teens the freedom and tools they need to shape their future.
- Grades 9–12: A complete high school experience that supports all students from 9th grade through graduation. Many courses are offered at the honors level, where advanced students sharpen their skills and participate in honors projects.
- Grades 9–10: Solidifying foundational knowledge while building academic habits and exploring interests.
- Grades 11–12: Focus on postsecondary planning through AP® courses, dual enrollment courses, and career pathway programs.
What will my teen study at Arizona Virtual Academy?
Arizona Virtual Academy’s online high school in Arizona offers a wide range of courses that meet state graduation requirements while also allowing students to personalize their path:
English/Language Arts
Literature analysis, research writing, and communication skills
Math
Algebra I & II, geometry, precalculus, and more
Science
Biology, chemistry, physics, and electives like environmental science
Social Studies
U.S. history, world history, civics, and economics
Elective Courses
- Electives: Career exploration, world languages, and more
- AP® and Dual Enrollment: Challenging courses for students pursuing advanced academic or college-level work
Take a Deeper Look
A Dynamic and Interactive Classroom Experience
High school students thrive when they feel supported, challenged, and connected. Through live class sessions and interactive tools, Arizona Virtual Academy helps students stay engaged and on track.
- Live Instruction: Teachers guide students through complex subjects and offer personalized support.
- Independent Learning: Students build time-management and accountability skills with flexible learning options.
- Class Collaboration: Teens engage in discussions, group projects, and peer-to-peer learning.
- College and Career Resources: Students receive guidance on transcripts, college applications, and career exploration.
- Flex Program Option: For students who prefer independent learning or need additional schedule flexibility, AZVA’s Flex program lets them customize when they learn, while keeping up with assignment deadlines and scheduled tests.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online High School in Arizona
How will my teen socialize and stay connected in an online high school?
We have an in-person prom, graduation, and other chances for students to connect with local friends and classmates throughout the year! In-person events are fun, but they are entirely optional.
Students at AZVA can participate in live class sessions, group discussions, and collaborative projects that help build relationships and communication skills. From clubs and extracurriculars to interest-based hangouts, we provide opportunities for social engagement that foster friendships and real-world collaboration skills.
Is Arizona Virtual Academy accredited?
Yes, Arizona Virtual Academy is fully accredited by Cognia, a nationally accredited governing body, and the Arizona State Board for Charter Schools. Rest assured that accreditation from Cognia is a valuable mark of distinction, based on rigorous, research-based standards and evidence-based criteria. Our whole school—from our policies to learning conditions and cultural context—works together to meet the needs of every learner. Accreditation ensures that colleges, employers, and the military will recognize your teen’s diploma. Accreditation also helps facilitate the transfer of credit to universities and other schools worldwide.
Is the AZVA curriculum aligned with state educational standards?
Yes, Arizona Virtual Academy follows the K12 curriculum, which is fully aligned with Arizona high school standards. Students earn credits that meet state graduation requirements, ensuring their diploma is recognized nationwide for college, the military, or the workforce—whatever their next step may be.
How are online lessons delivered—live sessions, pre-recorded videos, or a mix?
While attending an online school in Arizona, high school students participate in a blend of learning formats. This model provides flexibility while maintaining essential structure and accountability:
- Live Classes: For real-time engagement, instruction, and feedback
- Pre-Recorded Lessons: To review content at their own pace
- Self-Paced Work: To build time-management and critical-thinking skills
What is my role as a parent in supporting my child’s online learning?
By high school, students are largely self-directed. The Learning Coach—whether a parent, guardian, or another trusted adult—plays a background role: checking in on progress, helping with time management, and offering encouragement when needed. Arizona Virtual Academy supports students directly through teacher interactions, academic advisors, and college/career prep tools.
Is Arizona Virtual Academy tuition-free?
Yes, Arizona Virtual Academy is a tuition-free Arizona online public high school. Students receive full access to K12 curriculum at no cost, and eligible families may also receive a loaner computer and an internet stipend to help defray costs. Reach out to our enrollment consultants to find out if your family qualifies for a stipend.
Celebrate the Journey: High School Graduation at Arizona Virtual Academy
High school graduation is more than just a ceremony—it’s one of the most important milestones in your student’s high school journey. It marks the end of one chapter and the exciting start of what’s next. At AZVA, a tuition-free online public school serving students across Arizona, we celebrate this major academic milestone with a meaningful, in-person graduation ceremony that honors your student’s achievements.
From the first day of 9th grade to the moment they walk across the graduation stage, your student’s experience is filled with opportunities to learn and grow, culminating in senior year experiences they’ll always remember.
Celebrate With Us: Watch the Graduation Video
View the Graduation Photo Gallery
Take a look at the cherished school traditions and ceremonies that make graduation so memorable.
Our gallery captures touching moments from recent graduation ceremonies at AZVA—from big smiles to proud walks across the stage—celebrating the hard work and accomplishments of our students.
Graduation Ceremony Highlights
Graduation is a truly special moment—for both students and their families—and we make it one to remember at AZVA!
Here’s what you can look forward to:
- A joyful in-person graduation ceremony held each year in Arizona
- Every graduate in attendance is proudly called by name and recognized on stage
- Students wear caps and gowns to celebrate this important academic milestone
- Families, teachers, and school leaders come together to cheer, applaud, and honor each student’s achievements
“While our students have learned and grown in a virtual environment, celebrating their graduation in person brings a special sense of connection and accomplishment. It’s a moment that honors their hard work, perseverance, and the unique journey they’ve taken. This ceremony is a powerful reminder that even in an online school, community and celebration are very real.”
Forrest Smith, executive director of AZVA*
What to Expect in Senior Year
Senior year is a big milestone—for students and families! At AZVA, we’re here to make the final year of high school a meaningful, supportive, and exciting experience. As your child gets ready for life after graduation—whether that means college, a career, or exploring both—we’ll be with them every step of the way.
Here’s how we support our seniors:
- Personalized guidance to help them complete all graduation requirements
- Ongoing academic and emotional support
- A strong focus on college and career readiness
- Special moments to celebrate student achievements along the way
Stay on Track to Graduate
Curious about how your student will grow and succeed throughout their high school journey? These pages walk you through how we support students at AZVA—from their very first day of 9th grade to the moment they cross the graduation stage:
Frequently Asked Questions: Graduation at AZVA
Do online high school students get a real graduation ceremony?
They sure do! AZVA hosts an in-person graduation ceremony in Arizona each year. It’s a proud moment where students walk the stage, receive their diplomas, and celebrate with family, friends, and classmates, making memories that last a lifetime.
What are the graduation requirements at AZVA?
To earn their diploma, students must complete all state and school-specific graduation requirements, including core academic credits and any required assessments. We guide students every step of the way to make sure nothing gets missed.
What’s senior year like at an online school?
The senior year experience at AZVA is something special. Students enjoy a flexible, personalized experience with plenty of academic support—and we make time to celebrate their hard work and achievements, too!
Does AZVA help students prepare for life after graduation?
Absolutely. Whether your student is headed to college, starting a career, or exploring both, we offer strong career and college prep to help them take confident steps toward their future.
*Forrest Smith is a 2025 administrator of a K12-powered school in AZ, and their statement reflects their experience at their school.