High School (Grades 10-12)

Students in Grades 10, 11, and 12 are afforded the opportunity to learn through subject-area specialists teaching each course. All Grades 10-12 courses are within the Moodle Learning Management System. 

 Core Academic Courses Offered

• CALM (Career and Life Management) 
• English Language Arts 
• Mathematics 
• Social Studies 
• Science 
• Physical Education 
• Career and Technology Foundations (CTF) 

Essential components of the Secondary Online Program

• All online courses in Grades 10 – 12 are run through the Moodle Learning Management System (LMS) 
• Students are expected to have a dedicated internet-connected tablet/laptop/computer with a microphone and webcam 
• Students must ensure that they have a suitable working environment where they can reliably spend approximately 1.5 hours per day PER CLASS (7-8 hours per week per course) without serious interruption.  

How We Learn 

 High school learning in the Foothills Digital School is an online/blended learning program combining direct instruction (via video chat) with independent, self-directed online learning. Students will be connecting with their teacher by email as their primary means of communication, with mini lessons and face-to-face discussion by video chat available daily.  Students can access their courses anytime, anywhere if they have internet access, and the learning experience is flexible. Students can work on their learning any time of the day, at a pace that is appropriate to their level of readiness.   All students are expected to be logging in to their courses daily and working approximately 1 - 1.5 hours each day.  Recommended completion dates are shown online in your course calendars. 

• All course materials (outlines, lessons, practice resources, and assessments) are available anytime, in any place.   
• Recommended completion targets are tracked on easy-to-read progress bars embedded in all courses. 
• Tests are written under closed-book supervised conditions.  The course teachers will provide students with more details about how supervision is handled in an online learning environment. 
• Arrangements can be made for students to work in person at our school.   

Home Support

Grades 10 – 12 students are expected to work on their classes with limited parent/guardian support. All communication about student learning needs and progress should be PRIMARILY between the student and their teacher, though parent/guardian involvement is welcome and will be communicated to parents of students under 18 years of age. 

FAQ’s

Can I work ahead of the recommended pacing provided in my course calendar? 

For most courses, yes you can work ahead if you are comfortable with the faster pacing. The Foothills Digital School learning environment is very flexible, and courses are designed to accommodate students working at different speeds. 

Expectations for Learning

• Quiet, reliable working location free from interruptions and distractions 
• Reliable internet connection 
• Laptop or desktop computer, cellphone with a camera, and a web-camera 
• Organizational skills – tracking due dates, managing written notes and practice/review activities. 
• Communication skills – regular email contact with teachers, willingness to reach out and ask for help, clear understanding of learning needs and the ability to explain those needs to the teacher.  DO NOT wait to ask for help and do not attempt to do the learning on your own if you are feeling uncertain or frustrated with the course content. 
• Regular schedule and strong time management – expect to work 1.5 hours per day per course.  The time of day you work on a class should be kept consistent throughout the semester.