Elementary Options Program FAQs

We know that choosing the right educational path for your child is an important decision. This page answers common questions about how our tuition-free, virtual K-5 program works, what resources we provide, and how families can get started.

General Program Information

What is the Elementary Options Program?

The Elementary Options Program enables kindergarten to 5th-grade students to attend a virtual public charter school anywhere within Oregon.

How does the virtual Elementary Options Program work?

Parents get to be the Learning Coach and instruct their child with the guidance and support of a licensed educator. Our elementary program provides a variety of text-based and/or virtual curriculum choices to promote K-5 learning as well as optional on-site and virtual extra curricular opportunities.

Does my child need to attend the virtual enrichment classes?

No! That’s the beauty of this program; you can engage with us as much or as little as you like. Whatever fits your schedule and student’s interest. However, these do cover state standards and are a rich addition to what you are doing at home.

What if my child does not want to attend optional in-person extracurricular activities?

Our program is set up to serve all students across Oregon. Many do not live anywhere near the campus and never attend enrichments. However, when we have special events, many students will attend so they feel connected to the school.

How much does the virtual Elementary Options Program cost?

SLC is a tuition-free public charter school funded by the Oregon Department of Education. The only costs for families are providing an internet connection and any optional field trip fees.

How old do students need to be to start at SLC?

A student must turn 5 years old on or before September 1st of the school year in which they wish to enroll.

Do students need to live in Eagle Creek to enroll in Summit Learning Charter?

No. Students can reside anywhere in Oregon. SLC currently serves students from over 30 districts.

Can students be enrolled in SLC and another school/program at the same time?

No. When students enroll, they attend SLC full-time.

Are all of the teachers at Summit Learning Charter highly qualified?

Yes! All instructors at SLC meet the required teaching qualifications in the state of Oregon. Summit teachers are licensed in their subject(s) by the Teacher Standards and Practices Commission.

Enrollment & Application Process

How do I apply to Summit’s Elementary Options Program?

You can apply for SLC’s Elementary School Options Program by following the steps laid out on our admissions page and applying here.

What is the deadline to apply?

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but we encourage families to apply early to reserve their space and ensure timely access to curriculum and program resources. Space is limited. 

Do we need prior experience with schooling from home?

No, prior schooling from home experience is not required. Our team provides all the tools and support you need to succeed in a homeschooled elementary environment.

Parent & Learning Coach Responsibilities

What is the role of the Learning Coach?

The Learning Coach is the key to making this program successful. They’ll need time throughout the day to provide daily instruction in the core subjects and connect frequently with their homeroom teacher to collaborate on the student’s learning, progress, and goals

What is the parent’s role for students enrolled in the Elementary Options Program?

Parents are expected to be the Learning Coach and the primary educator for their student. Our teachers provide instructional support, strategies, and resources as needed. We encourage a high level of engagement between the student, learning coach and teacher for optimal learning.

How much time must a parent or guardian commit daily?

Parents/Learning Coaches should expect to dedicate 3-5 hours per day to core subject instruction. At a minimum, Learning Coaches are required to check in twice per week to document attendance and share student learning and progress.

How often can parents speak with their student’s teachers?

Teachers communicate with parents weekly and are available Monday-Friday via phone, Zoom, and email. They also instruct enrichment classes and attend field trips.

Who can be a learning coach?

The learning coach is typically a parent or guardian, but another responsible adult can also take on this role.

Curriculum & Resources

What materials are required to attend the program?

The only material required to attend the program is access to a reliable internet connection. K-5 students have the option to request a Chromebook as part of their curriculum budget.

Are any resources provided to students?

Yes! Each student receives a $500 curriculum allowance if they’re enrolled at the start of the school year. Students also have access to supplemental online programs such as Reading Eggs, Math Seeds, and Lalilo. Students enrolled by December of the calendar school year can also apply for an additional $500 to help towards paying for outside resources.

How is the curriculum allowance distributed?

The initial $500 allowance is applied toward approved purchases from trusted vendors. The additional $500 reimbursement is processed after specific program guidelines are met and distributed towards the end of the academic year.

Assessments & Testing

What is the STAR 360 Assessment?

The STAR 360 Assessment is administered virtually in the fall, winter, and spring. The assessment tracks students’ progress in math and reading and identifies strengths and weaknesses in these subjects.

Each student’s learning coach is provided with a detailed report of the assessment as well as a list of instructional methods to aid future learning. Assessment data is also used by SLC to analyze program needs and develop curricula.

This is a required part of our program to ensure that students are making growth and progress while learning at home.

Are students enrolled in the Elementary Options Program required to take state-level assessments?

Yes. Students enrolled in the Elementary Options Program in grades 3-5 must participate in standardized state testing.

Enrichments, Extracurriculars & Field Trips

What kind of field trips are offered?

SLC offers several field trips each year that are designed to offer educational and social enrichment opportunities to students. We have field trips all over the Portland and greater metro area. Past field trips have included the Symphony, Zoo, Evergreen Museum, Franz Bakery to name just a few.

What are enrichments and extracurricular activities?

Enrichments are optional virtual learning opportunities where we connect with students. They take place on Mondays and Wednesdays. Our extracurricular activities and classes take place at our Eagle Creek campus, and are also optional to attend. Both provide excellent social experiences for students to collaborate with their peers and learn from a licensed educator. Students who attend are given attendance for that day. 

Still Have Questions?

If the answer you’re looking for isn’t on this page, feel free to reach out, we’re happy to help!

How to Apply Summit Learning Charter’s Elementary Options Program

Complete Your Application

Ready to get started? Click on the Apply Now button below or anywhere on our website to complete and submit your online application.

Stay Connected

Once we receive your application, our admissions team will reach out via email or text to confirm we have everything we need and share the next steps.

Orientation & Welcome

Attend a New Student Orientation to meet our team, explore available curricula, and learn about program expectations.

We can’t wait to welcome you to Summit Learning Charter!