Georgia Virtual High School Officially Opens for Online Learning
Students Anywhere in Georgia to Have Access to AP and Advanced Courses

WINDER, GA (May 4) – Students in Ms. Whitney Neufeldt’s AP Government class at Winder-Barrow High School witnessed firsthand the successful conclusion of a bill becoming law when Governor Sonny Perdue signed legislation today creating the Georgia Virtual High School. 

   Governor Perdue visited Winder-Barrow High School to highlight the official opening of the Georgia Virtual High School. This internet-based public high school will give students in any region of the state access to Advanced-Placement courses, summer school courses, and other advanced science and math courses.

   “In this era of information technology, we can provide our students with the AP and other advanced courses they need to succeed,” said Governor Sonny Perdue. “The Georgia Virtual High School will help offer an excellent education to all Georgia students regardless of where they live.”

   Governor Perdue and State Superintendent of Schools Kathy Cox participated in an AP review session about how a bill becomes law. They shared with the class their respective roles and experiences in the legislative process. Cheryl Mitchell, an AP teacher with the Georgia Virtual High School, served as the guest teacher.

   Senate Bill 33 was sponsored by State Senator Dan Moody and carried in the House by State Representative Brooks Coleman. The Georgia Virtual High School will provide students with more than 60 online courses, including more than 12 AP courses, over the Internet. Students will interact with a teacher through the online course communication tools, E-mail and phone. Any computer with access to the Internet, including local public libraries, can be used to access the virtual classes. Students can register for classes by visiting www.GAVirtualSchool.org.  

   “The Georgia Virtual High School is another step in assuring that all Georgia students have access to rigorous classes. With the click of a mouse, students in urban, suburban and rural areas of the state will be able to challenge themselves with high-level classes, including Advanced Placement courses,” said Superintendent Kathy Cox.

   The Governor’s visit was webcast live by Georgia Public Broadcasting to 13 high schools across the state with students interacting remotely. The Georgia Public Library Service provided 10 public libraries from around the state who also participated in today’s event. A video archive will be available at mms://mediam1.gpb.org/GPB-Education/GovPressConf050405.wmv 

   The 13 high schools participating remotely included Banks County High School, Clinch County High School, Banks County High School, Clinch County High School, Bainbridge High School (Decatur County), Manchester High School (Meriwether County), Schley County Middle-High School, Central Elementary-High School (Talbot County), The School at Bishop Hall (Thomas County), Woody Gap High School (Union County), Worth County High School, Claxton High School (Evans County), Phoenix High School (Whitfield County), Therrell High School (City of Atlanta) and Sprayberry High School (Cobb County). The ten public libraries participating today were in Brunswick, Cairo, Clarkesville, Dallas, Dawson, Gainesville, Metter, Nashville, Rome and Waycross.