Frequently Asked Questions

HomeFrequently Asked Questions

Costs and Funding

  • What is the cost of Branches Learning courses for charter schools?

    Pricing varies based on the number of courses purchased and the level of support services required. Contact our sales team for a detailed quote tailored to your school’s needs.

  • Are there scholarships or discounts available?

    We occasionally offer promotions and scholarships. Schools and families are encouraged to reach out to our support team or check our website for the latest offers.

Enrollment

  • What are your enrollment and withdrawal policies?

    Enrollment begins in July and continues up to one month after the semester begins. Exceptions are made on a case-by-case basis.

    Withdrawals must be processed through the student’s school or organization. Contact your supervising teacher (HST) for assistance.

    Refunds are available if requested within two weeks of the course start date and must include all relevant details. Refunds are prorated.
    Full refunds are available if the course has not begun.

    *Blue Ridge Families: Refunds are not available once full-year courses begin; this is a Blue Ridge policy.

  • Can I enroll my child/children if I am not with a school or organization?

    Yes, please visit our course catalog, select the course(s) and proceed with the enrollment.

  • How can my school or organization partner with Branches Learning?

    Schools or organizations interested in partnering with us can contact our team at info@brancheslearning.org. We’ll guide you through the process, from understanding your school’s needs to implementing our courses.

General Questions

  • How do I find work samples for my school?

    A student work folder is created in Google Classroom containing submitted assignments. Other paper/pencil assignments and projects are frequently completed at home.

  • How can I see my child’s grades?

    Teachers update grades weekly. To see your student’s grades, have them log into their Google Classroom account, and share them with you.

  • How do I know if my child is keeping up with their work?

    Request a Guardian Account for Google Classroom to receive summaries, which include assignments, missing work, and announcements.

  • What type of setting should my child be in when attending live classes?

    Please establish a quiet space where your child can work uninterrupted.
    Background conversations, music, telephone calls, etc. are distracting for all of the students and the teacher.

  • What happens if the class teacher is absent?

    Families will be notified as soon as possible. A substitute will host the class or the teacher may post a prerecorded lesson. In case of a last-minute cancellation/emergency, the teacher will make up the lesson as soon as possible (it may be live or recorded).

  • What happens if my child routinely misses class?

    If a student misses two or more consecutive classes and the course teacher does not know why, the supervising teacher (HST) and parent will be notified.

    Attendance and participation are part of the final grade. Students who miss more than 40% of live classes may fail the course. Exceptions are made if a pre-approved plan is in place with the course teacher and student’s supervising teacher (HST).

    The Branches Learning teacher will award a final grade based on assignment quality and completion, attendance, and participation.

  • Do I need to report absences?

    Please let the course teacher know when your child must miss due to an illness or other reason.

  • Is attendance required for live classes?

    Branches Learning requires steady attendance in each class (typically two hours per week, per class; some electives are one hour per week). Classes are recorded, and families can request access to recordings from the teacher.

  • Why does Branches Learning require students to use cameras?

    Students who use cameras typically do better academically and socially than students who don’t. It is difficult for teachers to assess understanding and engagement without reading facial expressions.

    Relationships are easier to build with peers and teachers when cameras are being used.

  • What are the benefits of live, online classes?

    During live classes, students can ask questions, share ideas, build relationships, and collaborate with peers and course teachers.

  • How do credits from Branches Learning courses transfer to my child’s school?

    Branches Learning courses are designed to align with standard educational requirements. It’s important, however, to confirm with your child’s school regarding credit transfer policies. We can provide detailed course descriptions and assessments for their review.

  • Can Branches Learning courses be used for high school graduation requirements?

    Yes, our high school courses are developed to meet graduation requirements in core and elective subjects. We recommend consulting with your school counselor to ensure the courses align with your specific graduation plan.

  • How do students choose the right courses?

    Students and parents can browse our course catalog online. For personalized guidance, consult with your supervising teacher to ensure you are selecting the proper classes.

  • Are there any prerequisites for certain courses?

    Some of our advanced or specialized courses may have prerequisites to ensure students are prepared for the course content. These prerequisites are listed on the course description pages on our website.

  • What is Branches Learning?

    Branches Learning is an innovative provider of online courses for students in transitional kindergarten (TK) through 12th grade, partnering with schools, organizations, and families to offer high-quality, engaging, and flexible learning experiences.

  • What types of courses does Branches Learning offer?

    We offer a wide range of courses including core subjects (Math, English, Science, Social Studies), electives (Art, Music, Technology), honors courses, and special interest classes designed to cater to diverse student needs and interests.

  • How are Branches Learning courses structured?

    Our courses are designed with flexibility in mind, featuring a mix of synchronous (live) sessions and asynchronous (on your own time) activities, interactive content, and assessments to cater to various learning styles.

  • Can students access courses from any location?

    Absolutely! Our courses are fully online, allowing students to access their learning materials from anywhere with an internet connection.

Special Programs

  • Are there any extracurricular or enrichment programs available through Branches Learning?

    Beyond our academic courses, we offer a range of extracurricular and enrichment programs aimed at developing skills in leadership, creativity, and critical thinking.

  • Does Branches Learning offer summer school programs?

    Yes, we offer a variety of summer school courses for students looking to advance their studies or catch up on credits during the summer break. These courses are condensed but maintain the same high-quality instruction as our regular courses.

Support and Resources

  • Who should I contact if I have a question?

    Email info@brancheslearning.org, and we will direct your question to the right person.

  • How do parents and teachers work together to support students?

    We recognize the importance of communication and support. Branches Learning teachers, supervising teachers (HSTs), parents, and students all have roles to play. The more we work as a team, the more successful each student will be.

  • What if my child needs more support from the course teacher?

    Please contact the teacher and see if they are available for tutoring sessions. If so, place an order for tutoring and request the teacher.
    *Two hours of free tutoring is available each month to Blue Ridge students.

  • What resources are available for parents to support their children’s learning?

    We provide parents with guides on navigating our platform, tips for supporting online learning at home, and access to our parent liaison team for any questions or concerns.

  • What support services are available for students?

    Students have access to dedicated instructors and technical support to help them navigate their courses successfully. We work with the teacher assigned to your family (through their school) to ensure your child receives the services needed.

  • How does Branches Learning support students with different learning needs?

    We are committed to inclusive education. Parents are welcome to share information regarding their student’s learning needs. We are happy to make reasonable accommodations such as extended deadlines and customized assignments.

Technical

  • What technical requirements are needed to access Branches Learning courses?

    Users will need a stable internet connection and a modern web browser. Specific courses may have additional requirements, which are listed on the course description page.

  • Who do I contact for technical issues?

    If you’re experiencing technical difficulties, please contact our support team at tech@brancheslearning.org. We’re here to help ensure a smooth and effective learning experience for all students.

Tutoring

  • How do I enroll in the free Blue Ridge Academy tutoring program?

    Visit our tutoring page to enroll. Blue Ridge students are eligible for two hours of tutoring per month. They will need to have a mega waiver on file and be approved by their school administration.

    Additional tutoring can be purchased with school or personal funds.

  • What kind of tutoring services does Branches Learning offer?

    Branches Learning provides personalized tutoring services across all subjects we offer. Our tutoring is designed to meet students where they are, helping them to understand challenging concepts, improve their study habits, and excel academically.

  • How are tutors matched with students?

    Our tutors are matched with students based on the student’s academic needs, learning style, and the tutor’s area of expertise. We strive to create a compatible learning partnership to ensure the most effective tutoring experience.

  • Can tutoring sessions be scheduled around my child’s busy schedule?

    Yes, absolutely. Flexibility is a key component of our tutoring services. Sessions can be scheduled at times that work best for your child, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate extracurricular activities and family commitments.

  • What makes Branches Learning tutors qualified?

    All Branches Learning tutors are subject matter experts with a passion for teaching and learning. They undergo a rigorous selection process, including background checks and training in online instructional techniques, to ensure they meet our high standards for quality and effectiveness.

  • How do I know if my child needs tutoring?

    If your child is struggling with coursework, receiving lower grades than usual, or expressing frustration with a particular subject, tutoring might be beneficial. Students who wish to excel in a particular subject area may also wish to request tutoring.

    *One hour of tutoring per week is free to Blue Ridge students.

WASC

  • How Can I Verify Branches Learning’s Accreditation Status?

    You can verify our accreditation status by visiting the WASC website and searching for Branches Learning in their directory of accredited institutions. Additionally, we proudly display our accreditation status on our website and in our marketing materials.

  • How Does Branches Learning Maintain Its WASC Accreditation?

    We maintain our WASC accreditation through regular self-assessments, updates to our programs based on feedback and evaluation, and participation in periodic reviews by WASC. This commitment to excellence and continuous improvement ensures that we meet and exceed accreditation standards.

  • What Does the Accreditation Process Involve?

    The accreditation process includes a comprehensive self-study, peer review, and ongoing evaluation to ensure continuous improvement. This process examines all aspects of our educational services, including curriculum, instruction, student support, and overall institutional effectiveness.

  • How Does WASC Accreditation Benefit Parents?
    • Confidence and Trust: Parents can trust that Branches Learning provides a high-quality education that meets rigorous standards.
    • Accountability: Accreditation holds Branches Learning accountable to its stakeholders, ensuring transparency and commitment to excellence.
    • Future Opportunities: Accredited programs enhance students’ prospects for future educational and career opportunities, giving parents peace of mind about their child’s educational investment.
  • How Does Accreditation Affect the Quality of Education at Branches Learning?

    Accreditation requires a thorough evaluation of our programs, teaching methods, and educational outcomes. This ongoing process ensures that we continually improve and adapt to the latest educational standards and practices, providing our students with the best possible learning environment.

  • What are the Benefits of WASC Accreditation for Students?
    • Transferable Credits: Courses completed at Branches Learning are more likely to be accepted for credit at other accredited schools, ensuring students’ efforts are recognized.
    • Quality Assurance: Accreditation guarantees that our curriculum, instructors, and educational resources meet high standards, providing students with a reliable and effective learning experience.
    • College Admissions: Many colleges and universities prefer or require coursework from accredited institutions, increasing students’ chances of acceptance.
    • Financial Aid and Scholarships: Accreditation can be a factor in eligibility for financial aid and scholarships, opening more opportunities for students to fund their education.
  • Why is Accreditation Important for Branches Learning?

    Accreditation by WASC is crucial for Branches Learning because it signifies that our programs meet high standards of educational quality. This recognition ensures that our courses and supplemental educational services are credible and respected by educational institutions and employers.

  • What is WASC Accreditation?

    The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) is a regional accrediting agency that ensures institutions meet rigorous standards of quality and effectiveness. Accreditation by WASC is a mark of excellence and a commitment to continuous improvement.

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