Agora’s Middle and High School Programs Prepare Students for the Next Phases of Their Lives Founded in 2005, Agora is an online public school for Pennsylvania students in Kindergarten through 12th grade. Throughout the 15 years, Agora has developed educational programs to meet the needs of all students, so they may reach their highest potential as they prepare for life after graduation. Agora’s continuity of education has allowed uninterrupted schooling providing a sense of normalcy during uncertain times. Upon enrollment each student receives a laptop, printer and all the resource material for online success.
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ne of the key elements that allows Agora to stand apart is their live, interactive classroom, taught in real time by PA-certified teachers. Agora’s students learn synchronously, meaning students raise their hands, ask and answer questions, and interact with their peers. Students collaborate with one another and have a direct line to their teachers during class sessions, as well as after class hours via direct email and help
young adults, prepared to take on their next challenge,” said Bridget Kozar, Agora Middle School Principal. “Agora’s structure is uniquely set up for virtual success and allows us to focus on each student as an individual, with different scholastic and social needs.” The team structure of Agora’s middle school allows teachers of the 4 core subjects – Math, Science, English Language Arts (ELA), and Social Studies – to work
“Agora prides itself on building a strong level of maturity and independence in its students which sets them up for success no matter what future path they choose.” sessions. Agora is comprised of elementary (K-5), middle (6-8) and high school (9-12), with middle school helping to set an important stage for the future. “Students enter middle school as children and leave for high school as mature
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together, plan lessons and integrate the curriculum in a way that optimizes each student’s school day. This structure allows teachers and counselors to develop a personal relationship with their students and provides any extra emo-
JANUARY 2021 | www.northernconnectionmag.com
tional and academic support. Guidance counselors deliver assemblies on topics such as study skills, time management, internet safety and career exploration, thus preparing students for high school and ultimately, adulthood. Agora has reading and math specialists who work to identify students who may need extra support. With 25% of its student population having an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), Agora is known for its robust special education program for all grades. All IEPs are implemented the first day of school, reviewed, a meeting is conducted, and the IEP is adapted to cyber education within the first 30 days of enrollment. The virtual nature of Agora makes these specialists just one click away, as Agora staff rally around the student for continued support and academic success. Agora’s Advanced Learners Program (ALP) offers additional opportunities to nurture students’ growing scholastic appetite. From classroom interactions, to
