Administration and staff at Hastings Area School System have long placed an emphasis on meeting students where they are and providing a customized learning experience that meets their specific needs.
The Hastings Virtual Academy is a major tool that the school district has leveraged to follow through on that philosophy – and enrollment for the program is currently open for the 2025-26 school year.
Hastings Virtual Academy is a 100-percent online learning experience that is open to students of every grade level in the Hastings Area School System. In partnership with Edgenuity, HVA is administered by three dedicated Hastings teachers. The curriculum, which includes science, math, language arts, social studies, and elective courses, is engaging and implements animations, simulations, and video-led direct instruction.
Hastings students are equipped with a Chromebook but must be able to secure their own source of internet connectivity. All schoolwork is then completed through the Chromebook remotely.
“I think what we figured out during COVID is that the one-size-fits-all doesn’t actually fit all,” said Beth Stevens, the district’s Assistant Superintendent of Student Achievement, who also serves as the HVA Administrator. “You can get an education online without going into a school – and it’s ok.”
Born out of the COVID-19 pandemic, Hastings Virtual Academy now has the highest numbers in its history, with 168 students – predominantly high schoolers – spread across three teachers. The district has a special education teacher that can also accommodate students in a virtual environment.
Stevens said that offering HVA as an option has helped to keep students in school and more effectively weave education into their everyday lives.
“It has helped (HASS) stabilize enrollment but it has also helped keep kids in school,” she said. “Now, you must stay in school until you’re 18 years old unless you have extenuating circumstances. It’s keeping kids in school.”
“Students are in it for different reasons,” Stevens added. “We have a student who is on the professional rodeo circuit and goes to school through HVA. We also have a young man who is on the NASCAR circuit.”
Hastings Virtual Academy is now accepting new students. Current Hastings students only need to reach out to Stevens (beth.stevens@hassk12.org or 269-948-4400) to indicate they’d like to go virtual. Those who are new to the district must enroll and select HVA during the enrollment process.
Hastings Virtual Academy is also available to school of choice students.
“It’s easy to enroll, offers flexibility – it’s just an alternative way to get a high school diploma,” Stevens said.