To the Members of the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools Board of Education:

We, the undersigned members of the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools Virtual Academy community, strongly oppose the recommendation to dissolve the Virtual Academy and urge the Board to reject this proposal.

The Virtual Academy has been an integral part of our educational system for five years, serving as a virtual alternative for families who require flexible academic solutions. This program isn't just an option – it's a necessity for many of our students who thrive in a virtual learning environment.

Consider these compelling reasons to preserve the Virtual Academy:

1. Proven success and growth despite operating with limited resources and reduced staffing- The Virtual Academy has demonstrated consistent academic growth and achievement. Our dedicated educators have developed effective virtual teaching methods that deliver results.
2. Strong community support according to the W-S/FCS Panorama survey results- A majority of students and families express satisfaction with the Virtual Academy. This high level of satisfaction reflects the program's success in meeting diverse learning needs within our community.
3. Established educational framework over the past five years- Our staff has cultivated meaningful relationships with students and families while developing robust virtual procedures and practices. These established systems have created a strong foundation for student success.
4. Educational equity and access- The Virtual Academy provides essential educational access for students who may face challenges in traditional classroom settings, including those with medical conditions, anxiety, or family obligations that make in-person attendance difficult.

The proposed dissolution of the Virtual Academy would eliminate a proven, successful educational option that serves our community's diverse needs. This decision would directly impact families who have come to rely on this alternative learning environment and potentially disrupt the educational progress of current students.

We respectfully request that the Board:

• Maintain the Virtual Academy in its current form.
• Continue supporting this valuable educational option.
• Consider ways to strengthen and expand the program rather than dissolve it.

The preservation of the Virtual Academy aligns with our district's commitment to providing diverse, accessible, and quality education for all students. We urge you to vote against the proposed dissolution and instead work with our community to enhance this vital educational resource.

Please, sign this petition to show your support for education diversity and the preservation of the Virtual Academy, as it currently exists.