South County Virtual Academy

South County Virtual Academy Middle School (formerly known as Capistrano Virtual School, established in 2012), a part of Capistrano Unified School District, offers a flexible online program for grades 6–8. Students learn through long-term independent study with support from credentialed teachers and families. We offer a program that is fully online or students can be hybrid with up to 2 classes at thier school of residence. 

• Time Commitment: Students work about 4 hours daily (1 hour per core subject: English, math, science, social studies). Parents/guardians guide students each day.

• Virtual Learning: Lessons include videos, activities, assignments, quizzes, and unit exams. Teachers track progress and provide feedback.

• Support & Programs: Families receive weekly communication, an assignment calendar, and optional events like workshops, field trips, and activities. Students may also take up to two classes at their neighborhood CUSD middle school.

• Communication: Teachers stay in touch by email, phone, and meetings. A weekly newsletter shares school news and enrichment opportunities.

• Testing & Assessments: South County Virtual Academy administers all state and district tests and uses online assessments to monitor learning.

• Special Education: Students with an IEP need IEP team approval to enroll in independent study.

• Credit / No Credit: Grades are credit/no credit, based on completed work and monthly turn-ins.

• Requirements: Students and families attend Orientation, a beginning-of-semester conference, and scheduled teacher meetings.

• SST & 504: For SST or 504 plans, contact Sean McNamara: spmcnamara@capousd.org