ACADEMICS
Elementary School Academics
Set your elementary schooler up for a bright future at California Virtual Academies (CAVA) powered by K12! Our WASC-accredited, tuition-free online public schools provide a strong foundation for your child’s academic journey in a safe and supportive learning environment. CAVA is a network of nine online public schools that serve students in grades TK–12 in 42 of California’s 58 counties.1
A Smart Start for Young Learners
Virtual Classrooms With Real Connections
Learning at home doesn’t mean your child is learning alone! At our WASC-accredited schools, your child can:
- Attend Live Virtual Lessons: California-credentialed teachers lead live lessons
- Connect With Classmates: Students interact in real-time with other kids
- Ask Questions and Get Feedback: Teachers offer support and guidance during class
- Check Their Understanding: Lessons are followed by formal and informal assessments
A Well-Rounded Learning Experience
Our teachers tailor the trusted curriculum from K12 to meet California educational standards. The K12 curriculum includes both core and elective courses to help ensure your child gets a comprehensive education.
In addition to the core subjects listed, students are required to complete a Physical Education requirement.
English/Language Arts
Building strong reading, writing, and communication skills
Math
Developing critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
Science
Promoting curiosity and exploration of the natural world
History/Social Studies
Connecting historical and cultural events, including California studies courses
Art and Music
Encouraging creativity and self-expression
World Languages
Developing valuable language and communication skills
Get the Student Experience
Check Out Sample Courses and Lessons
Why choose CAVA for online elementary school in California?
Learning Options by Grade Level
Our online elementary schools serve California students in grades TK–12. Your child has the flexibility to learn from home with personalized, teacher-led support tailored to their grade level.
- Grades K–5: Building foundational reading, writing, and math skills with interactive lessons that make learning fun and engaging
- Grades K–2: Developing a sense of place, people, and community with an introductory course to a world language and culture
- Grades 3–5: Exploring core subjects in more depth and learning to make big-picture connections — your child may be reading literature from the same time period as an art or history lesson being studied, helping them connect concepts across subjects
Learn Why Students and Families Love CAVA
It’s made a world of difference with our son. And he’s like a testament to himself. He’s in the advanced learners program. He has thrived so much. I think it’s because he [can] feed off of himself and know that what he comes up with in his head, it's going to be amazing.
Ayme
The most fun part about online learning is the things you get to do with your friends and the teacher.
Gabriel Jr.
It's great. He’s home; the structure’s there. He gets his assignments; he knows what he’s doing. It works out for everyone involved because he has all the comforts of home, he’s on a schedule, and pretty much mom gets to do the things that she needs to do.
Gabriel Sr.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Elementary School in California
Learning at home doesn’t mean your student is learning alone! We understand the importance of social development, especially in the early years. Students at California Virtual Academies can:
- Participate in live class sessions and group discussions that help build relationships and communication skills
- Chat and hang out with their classmates in the CAVA K12 Zone, a bully-free, fun, virtual community
- Develop their strengths, interests, and friendships with virtual clubs hosted by CAVA
- Join optional in-person school outings, like field trips, picnics, and other social events throughout the year. Local groups of students and parents can also get together on their own!
Yes, California Virtual Academies are accredited by WASC, a nationally accredited governing body. Accreditation validates diploma eligibility and supports credit transfer to universities and other schools worldwide.
Yes, California Virtual Academies use the trusted K12 curriculum, which meets California’s elementary school educational standards. Our curriculum ensures that your child receives a high-quality education, preparing them for the next grade level or future educational opportunities.
Lessons are delivered as a mix, where elementary students participate in a blend of live virtual classes, prerecorded video lessons, and self-paced assignments. This combined lesson approach provides flexibility for our students and families while maintaining structure and academic accountability.
Your involvement and support are key to your child’s success! At California Virtual Academies, each student has a Learning Coach — a parent, guardian, or designated trusted adult — who helps keep students on track, encourages them to engage in lessons, and partners with teachers to support academic progress.
Your involvement as a parent or Learning Coach will vary by grade level and your child’s needs. On average:
- Grades K–2: Approximately 4 to 5 hours per day of school time, with 30–40% of learning completed online. You’ll spend about 1 to 2 hours actively supporting lessons and guiding activities, with the rest being more supervisory.
- Grades 3–5: Approximately 5 to 7 hours per day of school time, with 50–60% of learning online. Your involvement will be more hands-off as students work more independently, but you’ll still check in for progress and occasional help.
Our flexible program allows you to adjust your involvement based on your child’s needs and your family’s schedule. As your child becomes more comfortable with online learning, they’ll develop greater independence, giving you more flexibility.
Yes, California Virtual Academies are tuition-free public schools that ensure all students can access high-quality education without cost barriers. Families benefit from the complete K12 curriculum at no cost. Common household items and office supplies, like printer ink and paper, are not provided. Eligible families may also receive a loaner computer or tablet and internet stipend to support learning at home. Consult our enrollment consultants to see if your family is eligible.
Questions? Call Toll-Free: 866.339.6787
*Statements were made by California Virtual Academies students, parents, Learning Coaches, and/or teachers, and reflect their personal experiences at CAVA during the times noted.
1California Virtual Academies (CAVA) are nine independent public charter schools: CAVA@Fresno, CAVA@Kings, CAVA@Los Angeles, CAVA@Maricopa, CAVA@San Diego, CAVA@San Joaquin, CAVA@San Mateo, CAVA@Sonoma, and CAVA@Sutter. This public school option is not available in all California counties; view a complete list of counties here.
2The K12 K–5 course descriptions are a complete list of the K–5 courses that K12 provides. While CAVA offers a comprehensive selection of courses, not every K12 course is available to CAVA students.