Enrollment applications open November 2023

The Tippecanoe Online Academy (TOA) is a fully accredited virtual high school within the Tippecanoe School Corporation. 

The Tippecanoe School Corporation is launching the TOA to provide a dynamic and comprehensive online learning experience to meet the needs of students living within the TSC who have chosen to attend other online high schools in the state, homeschool, or have opted to attend other brick and mortar high schools; to students living outside the TSC who are seeking a flexible, personalized online learning environment; and to support our existing brick and mortar high schools and their students by offering a collection of rigorous online courses that supplement in-person courses. 

Tippecanoe Online Academy Vision

Our vision is to provide innovative, flexible, and personalized online learning opportunities within the framework of the Tippecanoe School Corporation, empowering students to achieve their highest potential and thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

Tippecanoe Online Academy Mission

Our mission is to provide a dynamic and comprehensive online learning experience that meets the diverse needs of our students, offering a flexible alternative within the framework of the Tippecanoe School Corporation. 

We are committed to delivering high-quality education that promotes academic excellence, fosters personal growth, and prepares students for success in an ever-changing global society. 

Through innovative instructional practices, state-of-the-art technology, and a supportive online community, the Tippecanoe Online Academy (TOA) empowers students to become independent, critical thinkers, effective communicators, and lifelong learners. 

By nurturing a love for learning, embracing technological advancements, and cultivating strong partnerships with students, families, and the community, we aim to inspire and equip our students to reach their full potential and confidently navigate the opportunities and challenges of the 21st century.

Will TOA students be eligible to participate in athletics at TSC’s brick and mortar high schools?

Full-time TOA students are not eligible to participate in athletics or other extracurricular activities at TSC’s traditional high schools.

Harrison and McCutcheon students who take a limited number of online courses offered through TOA (part of their regular schedule at the traditional school) may be eligible to participate in athletics and extracurricular activities.

---

Will TOA students receive a diploma from Harrison or McCutcheon High School?

TOA will be a fully accredited high school with its own school number. Full-time TOA students will receive a diploma from the Tippecanoe Online Academy. 

---

Can any Harrison or McCutcheon student switch to TOA?

TOA will accept enrollment applications from any high school student residing in the state of Indiana. Both resident and non-resident applications will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis under the general parameters outlined in Board Policy 5111. 

---

Can full-time TOA students enroll in courses at the Greater Lafayette Career Academy? 

Yes, full-time TOA students may be eligible to enroll in courses at the Greater Lafayette Career Academy depending on enrollment requirements and program capacity. Each student's enrollment at GLCA is reviewed on a case-by-case basis. 

---

Is TOA an alternative school for students who have academic and/or discipline issues at a brick and mortar high school?

No, TOA is not an alternative school. Success at TOA will require self-motivation, time management, organization, strong communication skills, and self-discipline. The Elston Alternative Education Program will continue as TSC’s alternative school. 

---

Is TOA intended for students who have fallen behind academically and need to earn credits at an accelerated rate? 

No, TOA is intended for “first attempt” course enrollments, not credit recovery. Both Harrison and McCutcheon will continue to offer credit recovery options as part of their academic program. 

---

How much will it cost to attend TOA? 

TOA will be a free, public school with no enrollment fees.

---

Are there technology requirements to attend TOA? 

Yes. TOA students must have ongoing access to a reliable, high-speed internet connection. TOA courses will be delivered through Canvas, a web-based learning management system. Zoom will be used for video conferencing. Students will use Google Workspace tools such as Google Drive, Docs, Sheets, and Slides.

Students are welcome to use their personal device (Chromebook, laptop, or desktop). iPads are not recommended. If students wish to enroll at TOA but do not have a device, a Chromebook will be provided free of charge. To obtain the Chromebook, students are required to come to the Tippecanoe School Corporation administrative offices at 21 Elston Road, Lafayette, IN 47906. 

---

Are students required to attend in-person activities? 

Enrollment at TOA is contingent upon a student's ability to attend standardized testing at a predetermined sites at the Tippecanoe School Corporation (likely McCutcheon and/or Harrison High School). If students are unable to access transportation to a TSC facility for standardized testing they may be ineligible to enroll at TOA. 

While standardized testing activities are both mandated and required, other in-person social activities may be offered throughout the school year that would be optional (field trips, club meetings, graduation commencement). 

---

When can students enroll for the 2024-25 school year?

Enrollment applications for the 2024-25 school year will open in November 2023.  

---

What courses will be offered at TOA? 

For the 2024-25 school year, TOA will only offer courses that align with Indiana's Core 40 Diploma. No honors, AP, or dual credit courses will be offered during the first academic year. 

---

What criteria will be used to determine an applicant's admission status?

TOA will accept enrollment applications from any high school student residing in the state of Indiana. Both resident and non-resident applications will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis under the general parameters outlined in Board Policy 5111. 

Several criteria will be used to evaluate a student's application to TOA including but not limited to: 

• the student's attendance and academic record at the previous school of attendance and status regarding graduation;
• the availability of curricular or program offerings that are specifically aligned with the student's demonstrated academic or career aspirations;
• the student's disciplinary record at the previous school of attendance;
• class size and program capacity of the school/grade level in which the student requests to enroll;
• input from the administration of the student’s current/former school; 
• financial impact of the enrollment of the student (inclusion of the student in the ADM count).

---

What is required of students to be successful in an online learning environment? 

Learning in an online environment presents unique challenges. One of the most significant obstacles is the lack of face-to-face interaction with instructors and peers. Online learners must proactively seek out opportunities to engage with their virtual community, participating in discussion forums, virtual study groups, or video conferences. Overcoming the isolation that can come with online learning requires self-motivation and the ability to build meaningful connections in a digital space.

Other characteristics students must possess to be successful in an online learning environment include:

• Self-discipline and time management. With no fixed class schedule or physical presence to hold them accountable, students must exhibit strong self-regulation skills. They need to create and adhere to personal study routines, set realistic goals, and maintain focus amidst potential distractions.
• Self-motivation is key, as they must take responsibility for their learning journey and stay engaged without external prompts. Adaptability is also essential, as online learning platforms and technologies may vary, requiring students to quickly acclimate to new interfaces and tools.
• Effective communication skills are vital for online learners. They must be able to articulate their thoughts and questions clearly through written communication, as it becomes the primary mode of interaction. Active participation in virtual discussions and seeking clarification when needed are critical to foster meaningful learning experiences.
• A growth mindset is invaluable in an online learning environment. Students should embrace challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth rather than as obstacles. The ability to persevere, seek help when necessary, and maintain a positive attitude enhances their overall learning experience.