The WS/FCS Education Council voted to consolidate the Virtual Academy with other schools – WFDD

The Council of Education of Winston-Salem/Forsyte voted on Tuesday on Tuesday to incorporate the Virtual Academy of the District within two other schools.

Officials say this move is the result of reducing recording and will save the area nearly $ 1 million.

According to the changes, the Virtual Academy will cease to be their own school and instead become part of the Winston-Salem Preparation Academy, which serves from grades 6 to 12. The elementary program of Virtual Academy will also be terminated in the next two years and until then embedded in the chef’s literacy school until then.

At a meeting of the school board, many speakers, such as the Association of Forsyte County Jenny Easter, shared the fears of how the changes would affect students and employees.

“I know that students will still have the virtual class virtual class option and Winston Salem Prep, but I would claim that it will not be at the same level of driving, engaging or support as they are currently receiving as a whole school and school community said Easter.

Consolidation will mean changes in the work for teachers, administrators and other employees at the Virtual Academy.

Officials say that those who do not retain a position in the new schools will receive the first priority for other vacancies in the field. But there is no guarantee that these jobs will be virtual.

It is estimated that the decrease in positions saves $ 950,000. Superintendent TRICIA MCMANUS says this will not be the only incision made in the area.

“We are in the process of making very difficult decisions and reductions of things that are funded by local dollars,” McManus said. – More than that will come out as we go, so we just have to realize this. “

The Council votes 5-4 to approve changes to the Virtual Academy.

Amy Diaz covers WFDD education in partnership with Report for America. You can follow it on Twitter at @amydiaze.