virtual academy 2022-2023

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I also think that many of these parents with kids who supposedly have long covid or other conditions are creating a situation that really doesn't exist. Munchausen by proxy anyone? Watching these testimonies broke my heart. Seeing these kids who are essentially being held hostage by their hypochondriac parents is so depressing.

You truly are not a good person. Yes, I believe it because I know some of them. My heart breaks for your kids as if they ever had health or other issues, you'd tell them they are making it up.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Welp, looks like at least one student wants us to continue the MVA because they are "shy" and like it because they can learn in a "comfortable environment."

I don't think this will be a convincing argument to the BOE lol.

Testimony posted on boardocs:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/18pIh04bhCGVM6v32-ZLud5ELQXsOvuSS/view

Did you even read and actually listen to the testimony? Kinda sad that is all you got out of it.

Yes I did. It is sad really that parents are enabling this. Kids need to learn to navigate the world regardless of being shy. I was shy too, but I am grateful I had exposure to normal social situations. My son was bullied in middle school. I am sure many parents are shielding their bullied kids with VA, which is so so wrong. It's a form of child abuse.

Wow, you think it's ok your child was bullied and would let him remain in a bad situation over finding an alternative. That speaks volumes of you as a parent. As a parent, I'd do anything to get my child into a better school environment.

What you did was child abuse. Well, actually neglect. You knew your son was being bullied and you ignored it and now rationalize your behavior.

I feel so bad for your son to have to go through that without any support at home.

Yes, I let him figure it all out on his own and he ended up with friends for life from middle school, high school, and college. He is now a recent college graduate with lots of friends and a great job making close to six figures. Had I imprisoned him in our home, I am sure the outcome would have been tragic.

You are a neglectful parent. And, you don't have kids in MCPS and are grown, why are you trolling this board and stirring up trouble?

You are lucky he is ok as it could have been far worse. Lots of kids commit suicide over stuff like that.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Welp, looks like at least one student wants us to continue the MVA because they are "shy" and like it because they can learn in a "comfortable environment."

I don't think this will be a convincing argument to the BOE lol.

Testimony posted on boardocs:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/18pIh04bhCGVM6v32-ZLud5ELQXsOvuSS/view

Did you even read and actually listen to the testimony? Kinda sad that is all you got out of it.

Yes I did. It is sad really that parents are enabling this. Kids need to learn to navigate the world regardless of being shy. I was shy too, but I am grateful I had exposure to normal social situations. My son was bullied in middle school. I am sure many parents are shielding their bullied kids with VA, which is so so wrong. It's a form of child abuse.

Wow, you think it's ok your child was bullied and would let him remain in a bad situation over finding an alternative. That speaks volumes of you as a parent. As a parent, I'd do anything to get my child into a better school environment.

What you did was child abuse. Well, actually neglect. You knew your son was being bullied and you ignored it and now rationalize your behavior.

I feel so bad for your son to have to go through that without any support at home.

Yes, I let him figure it all out on his own and he ended up with friends for life from middle school, high school, and college. He is now a recent college graduate with lots of friends and a great job making close to six figures. Had I imprisoned him in our home, I am sure the outcome would have been tragic.

You are a neglectful parent. And, you don't have kids in MCPS and are grown, why are you trolling this board and stirring up trouble?

You are lucky he is ok as it could have been far worse. Lots of kids commit suicide over stuff like that.

I have a younger one there. She also is dealing with bullying and has done a great job navigating it on her own with additional supports at school. I don't need to pull her out of school because she's shy or different. Kids are mean in middle school...we all went through it. Shielding and protecting your kids from it only creates more problems down the road. They will never learn how to deal with awkward or difficult social situations.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Welp, looks like at least one student wants us to continue the MVA because they are "shy" and like it because they can learn in a "comfortable environment."

I don't think this will be a convincing argument to the BOE lol.

Testimony posted on boardocs:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/18pIh04bhCGVM6v32-ZLud5ELQXsOvuSS/view

Did you even read and actually listen to the testimony? Kinda sad that is all you got out of it.

Yes I did. It is sad really that parents are enabling this. Kids need to learn to navigate the world regardless of being shy. I was shy too, but I am grateful I had exposure to normal social situations. My son was bullied in middle school. I am sure many parents are shielding their bullied kids with VA, which is so so wrong. It's a form of child abuse.

Wow, you think it's ok your child was bullied and would let him remain in a bad situation over finding an alternative. That speaks volumes of you as a parent. As a parent, I'd do anything to get my child into a better school environment.

What you did was child abuse. Well, actually neglect. You knew your son was being bullied and you ignored it and now rationalize your behavior.

I feel so bad for your son to have to go through that without any support at home.

Yes, I let him figure it all out on his own and he ended up with friends for life from middle school, high school, and college. He is now a recent college graduate with lots of friends and a great job making close to six figures. Had I imprisoned him in our home, I am sure the outcome would have been tragic.

You are a neglectful parent. And, you don't have kids in MCPS and are grown, why are you trolling this board and stirring up trouble?

You are lucky he is ok as it could have been far worse. Lots of kids commit suicide over stuff like that.

I have a younger one there. She also is dealing with bullying and has done a great job navigating it on her own with additional supports at school. I don't need to pull her out of school because she's shy or different. Kids are mean in middle school...we all went through it. Shielding and protecting your kids from it only creates more problems down the road. They will never learn how to deal with awkward or difficult social situations.

Well I guess you will find out how successful she was dealing on her own after she’s an adult and has her own children. If she talks to you.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Welp, looks like at least one student wants us to continue the MVA because they are "shy" and like it because they can learn in a "comfortable environment."

I don't think this will be a convincing argument to the BOE lol.

Testimony posted on boardocs:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/18pIh04bhCGVM6v32-ZLud5ELQXsOvuSS/view

Did you even read and actually listen to the testimony? Kinda sad that is all you got out of it.

Yes I did. It is sad really that parents are enabling this. Kids need to learn to navigate the world regardless of being shy. I was shy too, but I am grateful I had exposure to normal social situations. My son was bullied in middle school. I am sure many parents are shielding their bullied kids with VA, which is so so wrong. It's a form of child abuse.

Wow, you think it's ok your child was bullied and would let him remain in a bad situation over finding an alternative. That speaks volumes of you as a parent. As a parent, I'd do anything to get my child into a better school environment.

What you did was child abuse. Well, actually neglect. You knew your son was being bullied and you ignored it and now rationalize your behavior.

I feel so bad for your son to have to go through that without any support at home.

Yes, I let him figure it all out on his own and he ended up with friends for life from middle school, high school, and college. He is now a recent college graduate with lots of friends and a great job making close to six figures. Had I imprisoned him in our home, I am sure the outcome would have been tragic.

You are a neglectful parent. And, you don't have kids in MCPS and are grown, why are you trolling this board and stirring up trouble?

You are lucky he is ok as it could have been far worse. Lots of kids commit suicide over stuff like that.

I have a younger one there. She also is dealing with bullying and has done a great job navigating it on her own with additional supports at school. I don't need to pull her out of school because she's shy or different. Kids are mean in middle school...we all went through it. Shielding and protecting your kids from it only creates more problems down the road. They will never learn how to deal with awkward or difficult social situations.

Well I guess you will find out how successful she was dealing on her own after she’s an adult and has her own children. If she talks to you.

LOL we have a great relationship. I don't hover over her like the crazy nut case helicopter virtual parents.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Welp, looks like at least one student wants us to continue the MVA because they are "shy" and like it because they can learn in a "comfortable environment."

I don't think this will be a convincing argument to the BOE lol.

Testimony posted on boardocs:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/18pIh04bhCGVM6v32-ZLud5ELQXsOvuSS/view

Did you even read and actually listen to the testimony? Kinda sad that is all you got out of it.

Yes I did. It is sad really that parents are enabling this. Kids need to learn to navigate the world regardless of being shy. I was shy too, but I am grateful I had exposure to normal social situations. My son was bullied in middle school. I am sure many parents are shielding their bullied kids with VA, which is so so wrong. It's a form of child abuse.

Wow, you think it's ok your child was bullied and would let him remain in a bad situation over finding an alternative. That speaks volumes of you as a parent. As a parent, I'd do anything to get my child into a better school environment.

What you did was child abuse. Well, actually neglect. You knew your son was being bullied and you ignored it and now rationalize your behavior.

I feel so bad for your son to have to go through that without any support at home.

Yes, I let him figure it all out on his own and he ended up with friends for life from middle school, high school, and college. He is now a recent college graduate with lots of friends and a great job making close to six figures. Had I imprisoned him in our home, I am sure the outcome would have been tragic.

You are a neglectful parent. And, you don't have kids in MCPS and are grown, why are you trolling this board and stirring up trouble?

You are lucky he is ok as it could have been far worse. Lots of kids commit suicide over stuff like that.

I have a younger one there. She also is dealing with bullying and has done a great job navigating it on her own with additional supports at school. I don't need to pull her out of school because she's shy or different. Kids are mean in middle school...we all went through it. Shielding and protecting your kids from it only creates more problems down the road. They will never learn how to deal with awkward or difficult social situations.

Not all kids deal with bullying well. Some kids need shielded, some kids need supported. Some kids just got unlucky with parents like you have to figure it out on their own. At least they can find a sanctuary in homes like ours where they can get that support they cannot get at home.

One of mine is bullied in person now. It's not bad but I've had it and it annoys me the teacher allows it, who otherwise is a very good teacher. Thank goodness the bullies graduate this year. My kid doesn't want me to do anything about it. But the mine they want me to, I will be the first one to stand up for them and with them.

Every child is different. I don't get how you can't understand that. This isn't about your kids, this is about the kids of the MVA who are happy and thriving and while you may not agree, it's not up to you to agree.

I always wonder why parents allow their kids to be bullies, then people like you come along bullying online or treating their kids as you do and its easy to understand that no all kids get the same support at home as our kids do.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Welp, looks like at least one student wants us to continue the MVA because they are "shy" and like it because they can learn in a "comfortable environment."

I don't think this will be a convincing argument to the BOE lol.

Testimony posted on boardocs:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/18pIh04bhCGVM6v32-ZLud5ELQXsOvuSS/view

Did you even read and actually listen to the testimony? Kinda sad that is all you got out of it.

Yes I did. It is sad really that parents are enabling this. Kids need to learn to navigate the world regardless of being shy. I was shy too, but I am grateful I had exposure to normal social situations. My son was bullied in middle school. I am sure many parents are shielding their bullied kids with VA, which is so so wrong. It's a form of child abuse.

Wow, you think it's ok your child was bullied and would let him remain in a bad situation over finding an alternative. That speaks volumes of you as a parent. As a parent, I'd do anything to get my child into a better school environment.

What you did was child abuse. Well, actually neglect. You knew your son was being bullied and you ignored it and now rationalize your behavior.

I feel so bad for your son to have to go through that without any support at home.

Yes, I let him figure it all out on his own and he ended up with friends for life from middle school, high school, and college. He is now a recent college graduate with lots of friends and a great job making close to six figures. Had I imprisoned him in our home, I am sure the outcome would have been tragic.

You are a neglectful parent. And, you don't have kids in MCPS and are grown, why are you trolling this board and stirring up trouble?

You are lucky he is ok as it could have been far worse. Lots of kids commit suicide over stuff like that.

I have a younger one there. She also is dealing with bullying and has done a great job navigating it on her own with additional supports at school. I don't need to pull her out of school because she's shy or different. Kids are mean in middle school...we all went through it. Shielding and protecting your kids from it only creates more problems down the road. They will never learn how to deal with awkward or difficult social situations.

Well I guess you will find out how successful she was dealing on her own after she’s an adult and has her own children. If she talks to you.

LOL we have a great relationship. I don't hover over her like the crazy nut case helicopter virtual parents.[/quote


Well it takes a bully to know one.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Welp, looks like at least one student wants us to continue the MVA because they are "shy" and like it because they can learn in a "comfortable environment."

I don't think this will be a convincing argument to the BOE lol.

Testimony posted on boardocs:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/18pIh04bhCGVM6v32-ZLud5ELQXsOvuSS/view

Did you even read and actually listen to the testimony? Kinda sad that is all you got out of it.

Yes I did. It is sad really that parents are enabling this. Kids need to learn to navigate the world regardless of being shy. I was shy too, but I am grateful I had exposure to normal social situations. My son was bullied in middle school. I am sure many parents are shielding their bullied kids with VA, which is so so wrong. It's a form of child abuse.

Wow, you think it's ok your child was bullied and would let him remain in a bad situation over finding an alternative. That speaks volumes of you as a parent. As a parent, I'd do anything to get my child into a better school environment.

What you did was child abuse. Well, actually neglect. You knew your son was being bullied and you ignored it and now rationalize your behavior.

I feel so bad for your son to have to go through that without any support at home.

Yes, I let him figure it all out on his own and he ended up with friends for life from middle school, high school, and college. He is now a recent college graduate with lots of friends and a great job making close to six figures. Had I imprisoned him in our home, I am sure the outcome would have been tragic.

You are a neglectful parent. And, you don't have kids in MCPS and are grown, why are you trolling this board and stirring up trouble?

You are lucky he is ok as it could have been far worse. Lots of kids commit suicide over stuff like that.

I have a younger one there. She also is dealing with bullying and has done a great job navigating it on her own with additional supports at school. I don't need to pull her out of school because she's shy or different. Kids are mean in middle school...we all went through it. Shielding and protecting your kids from it only creates more problems down the road. They will never learn how to deal with awkward or difficult social situations.

Well I guess you will find out how successful she was dealing on her own after she’s an adult and has her own children. If she talks to you.

LOL we have a great relationship. I don't hover over her like the crazy nut case helicopter virtual parents.

I'm a proud helicopter parent and what's nice is I have a strong relationship with my kids as we get to spend time together as when they were in person between school and activities we barely saw each other.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:As a parent of a student who has been at VA for a few years, our family has had great success! It's sad that it was mentioned as a failure when so many kids including mine have really thrived in VA. It would be heartbreaking to let it dissolve. I pay taxes and it's sooooo much better than the school we are zoned to!

The data doesn't lie. VA has been a failure. Kids would be better served in their home schools.

Maybe parents with actual experience speak before you do. Is this Jen reesman? Probably. We’re all tired of you. Welcome to the 21st century. Education is changing whether you like it or not.

Anecdotes aren't data. The data shows VA is a failure.

Data is more than just numbers, and that data isn't current. So you're wrong. Sorry. Every single MCPS Program should be under this much scrutiny. NOT because you want the data to say what you want it to say. A full picture is important WITH current data from all 3 years. And maybe compare it to other programs in MD that are trying to do what they can to serve their students and families b/c MSDE can't be bothered to approve any programs for its residents.

They should be looking at every school and program, not just the MVA and when budget is an issue cut out the extra's. The MVA is not an extra. The MVA and the extended school year are not huge amounts in the overall budget so it makes no sense except these are the most controversial programs to get the attention off the BOE problems. If anything, lets get rid of the BOE and start fresh.

+ infinity to a new board (except get rid of Mandel as a contender - she's a lunatic)

A lunatic backed by the reopening crowd. Her biggest followers are reesman and smelkinson… who have nothing better to do than continually post about something that happened 4 years ago.

Reopener here. You realize when you call us that, you reinforce how very right we were that virtual school would be a failure. Some did heed the recommendations of the "reopeners," but if more had (like the entire BOE), perhaps MCPS wouldn't be as bad off as it is.

Dear reopener, the virtual academy isn’t and never has been “pandemic schooling “. Way to out yourself ya weirdo. What a loony bunch you all were. If you still are harboring resentment for failing your kids, get some help please.

A couple pages back, one of the excuses for the precipitous decline in MVA enrollment was “COVID stabilization”. So which is it? You can’t say that the program isn’t pandemic schooling but blame the fact that more than half of students have left the program on the pandemic stabilizing.

That’s not what was said. The virtual academy is nothing like the schooling seen during the pandemic. So all you in a huff don’t even know what you are yammering on about. You have zero experience with this program. ZERO. Look. You failed your kids during the pandemic and can’t get over it. That must be it. Otherwise why would you continue to attack innocent parents who have a right to choose what THEY feel is best for their family. If you can’t handle the freedom to choose then go join Tucker in Russia. Heard it’s nice this time of year.

You have the freedom to remove your child from the public school system and homeschool, pay for private school, or a combination thereof. There is no legal restriction that forces you to select an MSDE-approved school, although the process is a bit different if you select one that is not approved.

Why are you so nasty and hostile? The MVA has no impact on you or your family but it does to the children and families it services. Is it that hard to understand and have empathy and kindness to others? Perhaps it's time to get off social media and spend time with your kids.

This has been explained to you many times over: every dollar spent on VA is a dollar not spent on more effective education in our schools. That's similar to the objection people have with paying for private school vouchers.

Sure, ok. Why is this an issue for you? It's not taking away from your kids and the MVA per student costs less so it is more effective. If you think it's lacking, perhaps more funding and staff could help with that.

You have this weird obsession about it.

VA does not save money. There are simply too few enrolled in VA for the program to scale in a cost effective manner. The students in VA could simply be reabsorbed into their home schools, without needing additional classrooms or teachers to accommodate them. The teachers and support staff in VA are unnecessary.

You are right. Go listen to the testimony of a parent on the waitlist on the BOE website. If anything it should be expanded to allow more students access.

+1 many are on the waitlist. They cut staff last year so they can only take so many. There’s a greater need than openings right now.

Need? Just because you want something doesn't make it a "need." Plenty of families don't get into their desired magnet programs either.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Welp, looks like at least one student wants us to continue the MVA because they are "shy" and like it because they can learn in a "comfortable environment."

I don't think this will be a convincing argument to the BOE lol.

Testimony posted on boardocs:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/18pIh04bhCGVM6v32-ZLud5ELQXsOvuSS/view

Did you even read and actually listen to the testimony? Kinda sad that is all you got out of it.

Yes I did. It is sad really that parents are enabling this. Kids need to learn to navigate the world regardless of being shy. I was shy too, but I am grateful I had exposure to normal social situations. My son was bullied in middle school. I am sure many parents are shielding their bullied kids with VA, which is so so wrong. It's a form of child abuse.

Wow, you think it's ok your child was bullied and would let him remain in a bad situation over finding an alternative. That speaks volumes of you as a parent. As a parent, I'd do anything to get my child into a better school environment.

What you did was child abuse. Well, actually neglect. You knew your son was being bullied and you ignored it and now rationalize your behavior.

I feel so bad for your son to have to go through that without any support at home.

Yes, I let him figure it all out on his own and he ended up with friends for life from middle school, high school, and college. He is now a recent college graduate with lots of friends and a great job making close to six figures. Had I imprisoned him in our home, I am sure the outcome would have been tragic.

You are a neglectful parent. And, you don't have kids in MCPS and are grown, why are you trolling this board and stirring up trouble?

You are lucky he is ok as it could have been far worse. Lots of kids commit suicide over stuff like that.

I have a younger one there. She also is dealing with bullying and has done a great job navigating it on her own with additional supports at school. I don't need to pull her out of school because she's shy or different. Kids are mean in middle school...we all went through it. Shielding and protecting your kids from it only creates more problems down the road. They will never learn how to deal with awkward or difficult social situations.

Well I guess you will find out how successful she was dealing on her own after she’s an adult and has her own children. If she talks to you.

LOL we have a great relationship. I don't hover over her like the crazy nut case helicopter virtual parents.

I'm a proud helicopter parent and what's nice is I have a strong relationship with my kids as we get to spend time together as when they were in person between school and activities we barely saw each other.

Amen. I love havingmy kids at home with me, they are happy and thriving. Shame some people don't understand tat and want them forced back to bad schools.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:As a parent of a student who has been at VA for a few years, our family has had great success! It's sad that it was mentioned as a failure when so many kids including mine have really thrived in VA. It would be heartbreaking to let it dissolve. I pay taxes and it's sooooo much better than the school we are zoned to!

The data doesn't lie. VA has been a failure. Kids would be better served in their home schools.

Maybe parents with actual experience speak before you do. Is this Jen reesman? Probably. We’re all tired of you. Welcome to the 21st century. Education is changing whether you like it or not.

Anecdotes aren't data. The data shows VA is a failure.

Data is more than just numbers, and that data isn't current. So you're wrong. Sorry. Every single MCPS Program should be under this much scrutiny. NOT because you want the data to say what you want it to say. A full picture is important WITH current data from all 3 years. And maybe compare it to other programs in MD that are trying to do what they can to serve their students and families b/c MSDE can't be bothered to approve any programs for its residents.

They should be looking at every school and program, not just the MVA and when budget is an issue cut out the extra's. The MVA is not an extra. The MVA and the extended school year are not huge amounts in the overall budget so it makes no sense except these are the most controversial programs to get the attention off the BOE problems. If anything, lets get rid of the BOE and start fresh.

+ infinity to a new board (except get rid of Mandel as a contender - she's a lunatic)

A lunatic backed by the reopening crowd. Her biggest followers are reesman and smelkinson… who have nothing better to do than continually post about something that happened 4 years ago.

Reopener here. You realize when you call us that, you reinforce how very right we were that virtual school would be a failure. Some did heed the recommendations of the "reopeners," but if more had (like the entire BOE), perhaps MCPS wouldn't be as bad off as it is.

Dear reopener, the virtual academy isn’t and never has been “pandemic schooling “. Way to out yourself ya weirdo. What a loony bunch you all were. If you still are harboring resentment for failing your kids, get some help please.

A couple pages back, one of the excuses for the precipitous decline in MVA enrollment was “COVID stabilization”. So which is it? You can’t say that the program isn’t pandemic schooling but blame the fact that more than half of students have left the program on the pandemic stabilizing.

That’s not what was said. The virtual academy is nothing like the schooling seen during the pandemic. So all you in a huff don’t even know what you are yammering on about. You have zero experience with this program. ZERO. Look. You failed your kids during the pandemic and can’t get over it. That must be it. Otherwise why would you continue to attack innocent parents who have a right to choose what THEY feel is best for their family. If you can’t handle the freedom to choose then go join Tucker in Russia. Heard it’s nice this time of year.

You have the freedom to remove your child from the public school system and homeschool, pay for private school, or a combination thereof. There is no legal restriction that forces you to select an MSDE-approved school, although the process is a bit different if you select one that is not approved.

Why are you so nasty and hostile? The MVA has no impact on you or your family but it does to the children and families it services. Is it that hard to understand and have empathy and kindness to others? Perhaps it's time to get off social media and spend time with your kids.

This has been explained to you many times over: every dollar spent on VA is a dollar not spent on more effective education in our schools. That's similar to the objection people have with paying for private school vouchers.

Sure, ok. Why is this an issue for you? It's not taking away from your kids and the MVA per student costs less so it is more effective. If you think it's lacking, perhaps more funding and staff could help with that.

You have this weird obsession about it.

VA does not save money. There are simply too few enrolled in VA for the program to scale in a cost effective manner. The students in VA could simply be reabsorbed into their home schools, without needing additional classrooms or teachers to accommodate them. The teachers and support staff in VA are unnecessary.

You are right. Go listen to the testimony of a parent on the waitlist on the BOE website. If anything it should be expanded to allow more students access.

+1 many are on the waitlist. They cut staff last year so they can only take so many. There’s a greater need than openings right now.

Need? Just because you want something doesn't make it a "need." Plenty of families don't get into their desired magnet programs either.

But if a magnet or program were going to be cut or eliminated I sure wouldn’t be on here admonishing the parents and telling them to pay for private if they like it!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Welp, looks like at least one student wants us to continue the MVA because they are "shy" and like it because they can learn in a "comfortable environment."

I don't think this will be a convincing argument to the BOE lol.

Testimony posted on boardocs:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/18pIh04bhCGVM6v32-ZLud5ELQXsOvuSS/view

Did you even read and actually listen to the testimony? Kinda sad that is all you got out of it.

Yes I did. It is sad really that parents are enabling this. Kids need to learn to navigate the world regardless of being shy. I was shy too, but I am grateful I had exposure to normal social situations. My son was bullied in middle school. I am sure many parents are shielding their bullied kids with VA, which is so so wrong. It's a form of child abuse.

Wow, you think it's ok your child was bullied and would let him remain in a bad situation over finding an alternative. That speaks volumes of you as a parent. As a parent, I'd do anything to get my child into a better school environment.

What you did was child abuse. Well, actually neglect. You knew your son was being bullied and you ignored it and now rationalize your behavior.

I feel so bad for your son to have to go through that without any support at home.

Yes, I let him figure it all out on his own and he ended up with friends for life from middle school, high school, and college. He is now a recent college graduate with lots of friends and a great job making close to six figures. Had I imprisoned him in our home, I am sure the outcome would have been tragic.

You are a neglectful parent. And, you don't have kids in MCPS and are grown, why are you trolling this board and stirring up trouble?

You are lucky he is ok as it could have been far worse. Lots of kids commit suicide over stuff like that.

I have a younger one there. She also is dealing with bullying and has done a great job navigating it on her own with additional supports at school. I don't need to pull her out of school because she's shy or different. Kids are mean in middle school...we all went through it. Shielding and protecting your kids from it only creates more problems down the road. They will never learn how to deal with awkward or difficult social situations.

Well I guess you will find out how successful she was dealing on her own after she’s an adult and has her own children. If she talks to you.

LOL we have a great relationship. I don't hover over her like the crazy nut case helicopter virtual parents.

I'm a proud helicopter parent and what's nice is I have a strong relationship with my kids as we get to spend time together as when they were in person between school and activities we barely saw each other.

Amen. I love havingmy kids at home with me, they are happy and thriving. Shame some people don't understand tat and want them forced back to bad schools.

This is a reason for the virtual academy? How about we just fix the schools?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Welp, looks like at least one student wants us to continue the MVA because they are "shy" and like it because they can learn in a "comfortable environment."

I don't think this will be a convincing argument to the BOE lol.

Testimony posted on boardocs:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/18pIh04bhCGVM6v32-ZLud5ELQXsOvuSS/view

Did you even read and actually listen to the testimony? Kinda sad that is all you got out of it.

Yes I did. It is sad really that parents are enabling this. Kids need to learn to navigate the world regardless of being shy. I was shy too, but I am grateful I had exposure to normal social situations. My son was bullied in middle school. I am sure many parents are shielding their bullied kids with VA, which is so so wrong. It's a form of child abuse.

Wow, you think it's ok your child was bullied and would let him remain in a bad situation over finding an alternative. That speaks volumes of you as a parent. As a parent, I'd do anything to get my child into a better school environment.

What you did was child abuse. Well, actually neglect. You knew your son was being bullied and you ignored it and now rationalize your behavior.

I feel so bad for your son to have to go through that without any support at home.

Yes, I let him figure it all out on his own and he ended up with friends for life from middle school, high school, and college. He is now a recent college graduate with lots of friends and a great job making close to six figures. Had I imprisoned him in our home, I am sure the outcome would have been tragic.

You are a neglectful parent. And, you don't have kids in MCPS and are grown, why are you trolling this board and stirring up trouble?

You are lucky he is ok as it could have been far worse. Lots of kids commit suicide over stuff like that.

DP. More needs to be done to address bullying in schools. I was bullied in MS and then a good friend of mine was in HS. It sucked. But I think this highlights that more needs to be done so that kids can feel safe attending school in person rather than feeling forced into virtual. IMO, keeping virtual to serve bullied kids would mean giving schools a cop-out for something they should be addressing.

[Anonymous]

Do students in VA need to keep cameras on or do kids mostly have them off?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Welp, looks like at least one student wants us to continue the MVA because they are "shy" and like it because they can learn in a "comfortable environment."

I don't think this will be a convincing argument to the BOE lol.

Testimony posted on boardocs:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/18pIh04bhCGVM6v32-ZLud5ELQXsOvuSS/view

Did you even read and actually listen to the testimony? Kinda sad that is all you got out of it.

Yes I did. It is sad really that parents are enabling this. Kids need to learn to navigate the world regardless of being shy. I was shy too, but I am grateful I had exposure to normal social situations. My son was bullied in middle school. I am sure many parents are shielding their bullied kids with VA, which is so so wrong. It's a form of child abuse.

Wow, you think it's ok your child was bullied and would let him remain in a bad situation over finding an alternative. That speaks volumes of you as a parent. As a parent, I'd do anything to get my child into a better school environment.

What you did was child abuse. Well, actually neglect. You knew your son was being bullied and you ignored it and now rationalize your behavior.

I feel so bad for your son to have to go through that without any support at home.

Yes, I let him figure it all out on his own and he ended up with friends for life from middle school, high school, and college. He is now a recent college graduate with lots of friends and a great job making close to six figures. Had I imprisoned him in our home, I am sure the outcome would have been tragic.

You are a neglectful parent. And, you don't have kids in MCPS and are grown, why are you trolling this board and stirring up trouble?

You are lucky he is ok as it could have been far worse. Lots of kids commit suicide over stuff like that.

I have a younger one there. She also is dealing with bullying and has done a great job navigating it on her own with additional supports at school. I don't need to pull her out of school because she's shy or different. Kids are mean in middle school...we all went through it. Shielding and protecting your kids from it only creates more problems down the road. They will never learn how to deal with awkward or difficult social situations.

Well I guess you will find out how successful she was dealing on her own after she’s an adult and has her own children. If she talks to you.

LOL we have a great relationship. I don't hover over her like the crazy nut case helicopter virtual parents.

I'm a proud helicopter parent and what's nice is I have a strong relationship with my kids as we get to spend time together as when they were in person between school and activities we barely saw each other.

Amen. I love havingmy kids at home with me, they are happy and thriving. Shame some people don't understand tat and want them forced back to bad schools.

This is a reason for the virtual academy? How about we just fix the schools?

For many families enrolled currently in the MVA, yes it is a reason. It is THE reason. Apart from the kids who have social anxiety, avoiding schools that parents deem too dangerous due to fighting, bullying, etc. is the most commonly cited reason for doing the MVA. It’s quite remarkable actually that these families have been able to take a pandemic learning tool and turn it into a school choice program for schools deemed too violent or emotionally unsafe to attend in person.