How VTVLC Builds Community and Relationships Through the Screen
Online learning is often associated with flexibility, independence, and self-paced study. But at Vermont Virtual Learning Cooperative (VTVLC), we believe learning doesn’t have to be isolating just because it happens online. In fact, our students and teachers create powerful communities full of collaboration, support, and connection through the screen.
Whether a student is enrolled full-time or just taking one course, we intentionally build opportunities for engagement, relationship-building, and a strong sense of belonging.
1. Live Sessions That Go Beyond Content
At the 5-8 level, we offer courses that feature regular synchronous sessions. These live Zoom-based classes aren’t just for direct instruction; they’re also opportunities to check in with classmates, engage in discussions, and play games or share personal victories. Many students say it’s their favorite part of the week.
Every synchronous homeroom has its own dynamic, shaped by the students and teachers who show up each day. Teachers integrate community-building activities that promote emotional wellness, collaboration, and shared growth.
2. Community Events
From spirit weeks to field trips, both in-person and virtual, VTVLC’s school community is vibrant and active. These events are part of our commitment to fostering relationships that help students thrive.
Our events extend learning beyond the virtual classroom, like our annual virtual field trips to the Vermont Institute of Natural Sciences, but they also offer students the opportunity to socialize and connect, such as our in-person meet-ups that range from pottery to bowling.
Learn more about VTVLC’s past and future events at vtvlc.org/events.
3. Teacher Connection in Every Format
Even in our rolling enrollment courses, which allow students to customize their pacing, students aren’t left to go it alone. Each course has a dedicated teacher who provides feedback, answers questions via email, holds virtual office hours, and meets with students 1:1 for discussion-based assessments. These conversations are often where meaningful learning and trust are built.
Instructors also reach out proactively. If a student seems stuck or hasn’t checked in for a while, we check in. Relationship-building is a key part of our instructional model.
Plus, our Student Academic Services team provides another layer of connection. Whether it’s tech support, pacing concerns, or academic planning, this team serves as a consistent point of contact for families and students. When students know who to reach out to—and feel known in return—it reinforces that they’re not just another username in a learning system.
4. Student Clubs
We offer student clubs that serve a variety of interests, allowing students to connect around shared hobbies outside of the classroom. Whether students are looking to dive into our book club, join a competitive e-sports team, or meet to discuss fashion, we have a club that meets their needs. To learn about all our student club offerings, visit vtvlc.org/clubs.
Connection Is Core to Learning
Online learning at VTVLC is flexible and personalized, but never impersonal. From structured homerooms to spontaneous teacher check-ins, we’ve built a model where students are seen, supported, and socially connected because we believe that no matter where learning takes place, relationships are at the heart of a successful education.