Washington Launches Statewide Online Middle/High School

• By David Nagel
• 07/08/08

iQ Academy Washington last week launched a statewide online school for students in grades 7 through 12. It's providing tuition-free education to Washington students using Washington-certified teachers trained in online instruction.

iQ Academy Washington is managed by KC Distance Learning and operates as a program of Evergreen Public Schools in Washington, which has been operating a program called Evergreen Internet Academy since 1999.

"We are very excited to take our online school statewide in partnership with KC Distance Learning," said Michele DeShaw, coordinator of alternative education at Evergreen Public Schools, in a statement released last week. "We will now be able to bring the Evergreen Public Schools' long tradition of academic excellence to many more students in Washington."

The virtual school is offering core classes, such as English and math, virtual science labs, world languages, and "extensive Advanced Placement classes." Aside from free tuition, iQ Academy is also providing free laptops to students participating in the school.

"Any student living in Washington can take advantage of this online education option," said Lisa McClure, director of iQ Academy, "including previously homeschooled students, athletes, performers and others with special needs, as well as students seeking Advanced Placement courses or electives unavailable in their local school district. iQ Academy is focused on providing Washington students the highest quality education to provide a solid foundation for pursuing their passions and future goals."

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Proposals for articles and tips for news stories, as well as questions and comments about this publication, should be submitted to David Nagel, executive editor, at dnagel@1105media.com.

About the Author

David Nagel is editorial director, education for 1105 Media's Public Sector Media Group and editor-in-chief of THE Journal. A 22-year publishing veteran, Nagel has led or contributed to dozens of technology, art and business publications.

He can be reached at dnagel@1105media.com. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn at or follow him on Twitter at @THEJournalDave (K-12) or @CampusTechDave (higher education).