Youngstown City Schools to Offer Virtual Academy Next School Year

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio — Youngstown City School District will offer a virtual school for first through 12th graders beginning next school year.

“The pandemic showed us that some scholars thrive while learning virtually,” said CEO Justin Jennings in a statement. “Some scholars excel while being in a traditional classroom setting, but for others, learning remotely is a better fit. We want to educate scholars in the way that’s best for them. We’re doing that by opening YCSD Virtual Academy next year.”

The academy will be housed inside Choffin Career and Technical Center but will operate as a separate school. 

Roshay Huff, who served as principal of Kirkmere Elementary School for the 2020-21 school year, will be the principal of YCSD Virtual Academy.

“Being a principal during a pandemic and supporting a remote learning environment for many scholars and families has prepared the staff and I for this new opportunity,” Huff said. “YCSD Virtual Academy will be an option for families and scholars who are self-motivated and desire to learn in a remote setting. Scholars will receive support from certified teachers to encourage their success.” 

Scholars will be required to come to the school regularly for social-emotional check-ins, but learning will be remote.

A survey posted to the district website, YCSD.org, will allow parents to express interest in having their child attend the school next year. The survey can also be found HERE.

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.