South County Virtual Academy

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South County Virtual Academy Grades 9-12 (formerly California Preparatory Academy, established in 2011) is a WASC-accredited, independent study high school through the Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD).

South County Virtual Academy has the benefits and flexibility of a virtual curriculum blended with face-to-face instruction and highly qualified CUSD teachers. The advantages to a blended educational program include the following:

students have access to UC/CSU approved coursework.
students have individualized instruction by CUSD teachers.
students can participate in CIF sanctioned sports at their home high school.
students can dual-enroll at their home high school. Students may take one or two classes at their home high school while they are enrolled at Cal Prep.
students can participate in co-curricular activities at their home high school. Some of these co-curricular events may include drama, band, newspaper, and yearbook. Audition and try-out requirements apply.
students will learn essential 21st Century Skills.
students have different pacing options that include Advanced Placement (AP), honors and accelerated courses, as well as credit recovery.

Program Structure

Independent study offers a flexible, off-campus alternative to traditional high school. Using Canvas, students complete district-approved curriculum independently while adhering to teacher-defined timelines. While students drive their own daily learning, credentialed teachers provide grading, feedback, and one-on-one support via appointment.

Instruction: Students work independently; teachers act as facilitators rather than daily lecturers.
Mandatory Sessions: Weekly one-hour virtual Homeroom.
Optional Sessions: Weekly one-hour classes for specific subjects (e.g., AP, Spanish, Science)