HOW IT WORKS
Curious how online learning works?
With online learning, your child can learn at home, or wherever there's an internet connection, while enjoying the benefits and support of a school program. They'll complete a mix of online lessons and offline activities, using Stride K12-provided books and materials.* State-certified teachers provide instruction in virtual sessions called "Class Connects."
What to Expect
Time Commitment
Curriculum
Friendship PCS Online Programs
FPCSO Programs
Elementary
School
Middle
School
What's my role as a parent?
You'll play an active and important role as your child's Learning Coach. Plan time each day to:
- Provide academic support, motivation, and guidance throughout the school year
- Ensure your child is on track with assignments and coursework
- Communicate with teachers
- Report daily attendance
If you or your child's legal guardian cannot fill this role, you can choose a family member, friend, or another trusted adult to be the Learning Coach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to attend Friendship Public Charter School Online?
Any student in grades K–8 who resides in Washington, D.C. is eligible to apply for full-time enrollment through the My School D.C. lottery.
How many of my children can I enroll in Friendship PCS Online?
Because Friendship PCS Online provides the lesson plans and materials needed for grades K–8, many parents find it easy to enroll multiple children in the program.
What does it cost to attend Friendship PCS Online?
Friendship PCS Online is a public school, so there is no tuition. We provide D.C.-certified teachers and instructional materials. Students and families will be responsible for providing some common household materials (such as printer ink and paper). Our enrollment consultants can help address your technological and computer questions and needs.
What is the attendance policy?
Friendship PCS Online works with families toward a positive attendance record to meet their required number of 181 instructional days. Attendance is logged daily in the Online School by the student's Learning Coach.
Can our family take a vacation during the school year?
The school calendar includes school holidays or vacation time. Whenever possible, family vacations should align with school vacation days. Parents are encouraged to contact their teacher if they plan a vacation that does not coordinate with the school calendar. Extended family travel, except during normal school vacation periods, requires written notification and vacation contract approval by the Head of School or designee. This should be completed at least one week prior to the extended absence.
How much time will my child spend online?
We expect that students will spend no more than 15 to 30 percent of their school time online in grades K–5 and 50 to 70 percent in grades 6–8. We believe in a balanced approach toward education. Computers help us provide you with effective assessment, planning, and time-management tools. Computers also act as powerful teaching tools that can motivate, stimulate, and inform children about the world around them. They do not, however, replace a solid education. Rather, they help facilitate one. That's why we use a unique multimedia approach that also includes traditional books, workbooks, and instructional materials.*
How do students interact socially?
Students spend time with classmates online and through school outings, field trips, and other activities. In addition to school-based clubs, Stride K12 online national clubs help connect students with like interests and passions.
*Course materials vary by course and school.
Socialization