Frequently Asked Questions

GRAVA, which launched in the fall of 2025, is an online school designed to meet the diverse needs of students and families in the Grand Rapids area. It offers a flexible and rigorous virtual learning environment that provides an equitable option for all students, increases enrollment, and improves the district's financial stability.

GRAVA serves a wide range of students in grades 9-12, including:

• Full-time online students
• Part-time students who need scheduling flexibility
• Students who need credit recovery or an alternative pace
• Homebound students or those with health needs

The program is open to both current Grand Rapids Area Schools (GRAS) students and those from other school districts. However, it may not be the best fit for students who require intensive, in-person structure or supervision.

Enrollment for current Grand Rapids Area Schools students is open at the beginning of the school year as well as during quarter and semester breaks. Open-enrolled students (students from districts other than Grand Rapids Area Schools) can enroll year-round, similar to in-person enrollment.

• To learn more, visit the GRAVA website or contact Kristina Landrus at  klandrus@isd318.org or call 218-327-5706.

Current Grand Rapids Area Schools students who are interested in enrolling should talk to their school counselor.

The online schedule will be created collaboratively between the student and the GRAVA principal.

• Elementary students are enrolled full-time online.
• Secondary students (grades 6-12) can attend fully online or in a hybrid model that combines online academics with an in-person elective. 
• Changing models between in-person and online learning should happen at quarter or semester breaks.
• Secondary students may take six online courses and a study hall or six online courses and one in-person course. If a student enrolls in a hybrid model, families are responsible for arranging transportation to and from school for the in-person course.

Yes. GRAVA courses are aligned with and fulfill all district graduation requirements. The credits and courses are equivalent to in-person classes and appear the same on a student’s official transcript. A full list of secondary course options can be found on the GRAVA website.

Students will be supported by licensed teachers through Imagine Edgenuity, GRAVA's partner organization. Grand Rapids Area Schools teachers will take a more prominent role as the program develops.

• School counselors are the main contacts for academic planning, mental health referrals, and graduation tracking.
• District teams coordinate wraparound services, such as Special Education (SPED) and English Language (EL) services.
• GRAVA principals will receive regular reports on student progress and will contact families if a student is struggling.
• Students with an IEP will receive case management from Grand Rapids teachers and special education services from online instructors.
• On-demand academic tutors are available seven days a week.

All online students will be issued a district iPad.

• Device pick-up for elementary students (K-5) is coordinated by Clayton Lindner, and for secondary students (6-12) by Andy Forbort. After the school year begins, devices can be picked up at the District Educational Service Center. Students in the Bigfork area can pick up their device from the Bigfork School office.
• Software support is provided by Imagine Edgenuity. Go to https://help.edgenuitystudent.com
• Hardware support is provided by the district and can be accessed by contacting Kristina Landrus at the District Educational Service Center at klandrus@isd318.org or by calling 218-327-5706

An online orientation is provided to all new students to help them become familiar with the online platform.

Student attendance is determined by their engagement and work completion in their online courses. If a student is absent or disengaged, the principal will follow up with the student and their family.

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