Putting students first is the core mission of Lapeer Community Schools. In order to better prepare our students for their future in an ever-changing world, we must be willing to adapt to new realities in education.

Moving forward toward our goal of becoming the “District of Choices,” LCS is proud to offer families a new opportunity that lies at the heart of our mission.

The Lapeer Virtual Learning Center, new for 2012-13, will offer students in grades 6-12 the opportunity to receive all, or a portion, of their education online and at no-cost.

LVLC will offer virtual learning to non-traditional students, including home-based students, in Lapeer County and beyond.  In addition, it is one of the only virtual programs that is supported by a brick-and-mortar building, where students and families can gather to collaborate and to utilize a facility that will enhance their educational experience.

Maple Grove Elementary School, slated for closure next month, will house the program for the 2012-13 school year. The following year, LVLC will undergo a planned transition to its permanent home at the District’s Cramton Campus on Lake Nepessing Road, south of I-69.

LCS Superintendent Matt Wandrie said the transition is another example of innovation in the District, one that will provide families across the area with a choice that few districts can match.

“Having a standalone facility to support virtual learning is a tremendous advantage for the District, and a unique opportunity for families,” Wandrie said. “Virtual learning isn’t for everyone, but for students who excel in non-traditional environments, LVLC will be a mutually-beneficial endeavor.”

LVLC students, depending on their degree of involvement in the program, will have the opportunity to graduate with a diploma from Lapeer Community Schools.

Anyone interested in learning more about LVLC is invited to a “demo night” on Tuesday, May 22, at Maple Grove Elementary, 2020 Imlay City Rd., Lapeer. There will be sessions starting at 5:30 and 7:30 p.m.

Prospective students will have the opportunity to tour the facility and test drive the technology. Parents will also be able to check various online curriculum offerings.

For more information on Lapeer Virtual Learning Center, call (810) 538-1644.