To the Stars: Back to School with Iowa Virtual School
The start of the school year is always filled with excitement, and this year is especially meaningful for all of us at Iowa Virtual School. This fall, we joined the Red Oak School District to welcome students for the first time, and we couldn’t be more thrilled.
Launching a new online school is about much more than kicking off classes, it’s about beginning a shared journey. Every family that joins us will help shape Iowa Virtual School into a thriving, supportive space where students can learn, grow, and discover their passions. As we begin our inaugural year, we’re laying the foundation for a future full of possibility, achievement, and success.
Here, we’ll share what we’ve been working on behind the scenes, highlight some tips for students starting at a virtual school, and explore what makes this year of firsts so special.
Building a School for the Future
Creating a new school from the ground up is no small task, but it’s a rewarding one. Over the summer, our team worked tirelessly to prepare everything families need to thrive in an online learning environment. From developing curriculum to planning community events, every detail was designed with students and families in mind.
2025–26 Course Catalogue
Our curriculum is the backbone of Iowa Virtual School. With a full range of courses designed to meet students where they are, we’re ready to provide personalized and engaging learning experiences. Every lesson is thoughtfully developed to balance state standards with flexibility, ensuring that students stay on track academically while also exploring their own interests.
Whether a student is diving deep into core subjects like math and science or pursuing electives in art, coding, or world languages, Iowa Virtual School offers opportunities to stretch, explore, and shine. Families will also find built-in supports—such as tutoring sessions, teacher office hours, and enrichment activities—that help students succeed at every stage. Check out our course catalog here!
Stay Connected with Iowa Virtual School
We know that families learn and grow best when they feel connected. That’s why Iowa Virtual School is active on Instagram and Facebook, sharing updates, tips, and glimpses into our school culture. Whether you’re looking for study hacks, reminders about upcoming events, or highlights from our students, following along on social media is a great way to stay engaged.
Beyond social platforms, we’re also building traditions that will make our community feel special: back-to-school events, parent Q&A nights, and virtual clubs where students can celebrate achievements together. Connection is the heart of a strong school, and even in a virtual setting, we’re committed to creating spaces where families feel at home.
Trail Tips: Success in Online Learning
Starting a new school year—especially at a virtual school—comes with both opportunities and challenges. For many students, learning online is a new experience, and it helps to establish good habits from the very beginning. Here are a few “Trail Tips” to help families start strong:
1. Create a Dedicated Learning Space
Setting aside a specific area for schoolwork can make a huge difference. Whether it’s a desk in a home office or the dining room table, a consistent, distraction-free space helps students stay focused and organized. The key is to signal to your child: this is where learning happens.
2. Build a Routine That Works
One of the best parts of online school is flexibility, but consistency still matters. Establishing a daily routine—wake-up time, learning blocks, breaks, and after-school activities—helps students feel grounded. A routine also makes it easier to transition between home and school life, even when both happen under the same roof.
3. Stay Connected to Teachers and Peers
At Iowa Virtual School, we believe every child deserves a “School of One” experience. That means personalized attention, regular check-ins, and a team of teachers and staff who are only a click away. Encourage your student to reach out, ask questions, and take advantage of all the support we offer. Building strong connections is one of the keys to thriving in an online environment.
4. Balance Screen Time with Movement
It’s easy to spend long stretches at the computer during virtual school, but we encourage families to build in time for exercise, fresh air, and hands-on projects. Whether it’s a walk around the block, a stretch break, or a hobby like art or music, balance helps students stay energized and focused.
5. Celebrate Milestones—Big and Small
Starting at a new school is a big step. Recognize progress, whether it’s completing the first week, turning in a tough assignment, or making a new friend in class. Celebrating these achievements reminds students that growth happens little by little, day by day.
What Makes This Year Special
Every new school year feels like a fresh start, but at Iowa Virtual School, this one is. We’re building a school community together, and with that brings excitement, creativity, and opportunity.
For students, this year is a chance to be pioneers. They’re the very first to walk the trails of Iowa Virtual School, so their voices, experiences, and ideas will shape what our community becomes. Parents play a vital role too, offering feedback and partnership as we grow.
For our team, this year is about setting traditions. From how we celebrate student success to the ways we host community events, we’re starting practices that will carry forward for years to come. There’s a unique energy in being part of something brand new, and we’re grateful to share it with families across our state.
Looking Ahead
As we continue through this inaugural school year, we’re excited to watch students thrive in our virtual academy environment. We know challenges will come, but with every challenge comes growth. With the right support, flexibility, and encouragement, our students will gain the skills they need not only to succeed in school but to flourish in life.
To every family who has joined us this year, thank you for being part of the Iowa Virtual School story. Together, we’re building something extraordinary: a community where curiosity is encouraged, confidence is nurtured, and success is celebrated.
Ready to Join Us?
If you’ve been considering an online school, this is your sign to take the next step. Enrollment is open, and we would love for your family to be part of our community.
Iowa Virtual School is more than just a school—it’s a partnership between educators, families, and students working together to create a brighter future.
