21f Online Learning
The State School Aid Act Section 21f expands the online learning opportunities for students in grades 6-12. With consent of a parent or guardian, a student may enroll in up to two online learning courses per academic term (100% of the instruction is online and the online teacher may not be employed by the district depending on the course provider). The state course catalog, provided by Michigan Virtual, can be found HERE.
At Garden City Public Schools, we embrace the opportunities presented by Section 21f, which allows districts to offer virtual courses to students seeking alternative pathways to education. We believe in providing diverse educational experiences tailored to meet the needs and interests of our students.
Our Policy on 21F Virtual Course Enrollment:
Student's Academic Progress: We carefully evaluate each student's academic journey to ensure that virtual course enrollment aligns with their educational goals and needs. We may approve virtual course enrollment if the student's academic progress indicates a beneficial opportunity.
Parents will also be expected to sign the “21f Contract for Online Learning Course(s)” Form to help ensure successful completion of the class(es). This will be provided upon approval for course enrollment.
Course Relevance and Credits: Virtual courses must contribute meaningfully to a student's educational journey. We may deny enrollment if the student has previously gained the credits or if the course is inconsistent with their graduation requirements or career interests.
Prerequisite and Proficiency: To maintain academic standards, students must have completed prerequisite coursework or demonstrated proficiency in the required subjects before enrolling in virtual courses.
Quality and Rigor: We prioritize the quality and rigor of virtual courses. If a course does not meet our standards, we will enroll the student in a similar course of acceptable rigor and quality.
Timely Enrollment: Virtual course enrollment requests must align with established timelines to ensure smooth academic transitions and scheduling. Virtual classes must be requested at least three weeks before the future semester begins.
For the 2025-2026 academic year, this is on/before August 12, 2025, and on/before January 2, 2026.
Potential Cost: Parents will be responsible for any charges above 6.67% of the target foundation allowance for the current fiscal year as determined by Section 20 of the State School Aid Act (MCL 388.1620).
We believe in empowering students with diverse learning opportunities while maintaining academic integrity and rigor. Our commitment to excellence guides our decisions regarding virtual course enrollment, ensuring that each student receives a high-quality education tailored to their individual needs. Students can take a maximum of 2 courses per semester. A meeting to determine if 21f is the best for your child will be held previous to student enrollment into the online class(es). All online courses are taken outside of the building. Enrollment in online course(s) cannot result in a course load that exceeds a full-time schedule.
For further inquiries or assistance regarding virtual course enrollment, please contact your school counselor.
To request enrollment in a 21f virtual course, please proceed HERE.