ACADEMICS
High School Academics
California Virtual Academies
Help your high school student gain the knowledge, skills, and tools they need to shape their future at California Virtual Academies (CAVA) powered by K12! In addition to core subjects, our Career and College Prep program helps your 9–12th grader plan for life after graduation.
Empowering Students for What Comes Next
Student-Centered Curriculum
Our California-credentialed teachers tailor the trusted curriculum and resources from K12 — a national leader in online education for more than 25 years — to help students identify goals for the future and chart paths to achieve them.
The K12 curriculum includes both core and elective courses, helping ensure your student gets a well-rounded education. In addition to the core subjects listed, students are required to complete a Physical Education requirement.
English/Language Arts
Literature analysis, research writing, and communication skills
Math
Algebra I & II, geometry, precalculus, and more
Science
Biology, chemistry, physics, and electives like environmental science
History/Social Studies
U.S. history, world history, civics, and economics
Elective Courses
- World Languages: Experiencing cultural enrichment opportunities while developing valuable language and communication skills
- Career and College Prep: Empowering students to get a head start on their future
- AP®, Honors, and Dual Enrollment: Challenging courses for students pursuing advanced academic or college-level work.
Experience Sample Courses and Lessons
Explore Their Potential
Career and College Prep
Your teen can gain a competitive edge for the future — whether that includes college, a career, or both.
At CAVA, 9–12th graders can take a deep dive into a career-focused concentration of their choice (what we call a career pathway).
Career pathways are an excellent way for students to get a jump-start on a career right after high school or to help them make the right decision about their college major.
Why choose CAVA for online high school in California?
Learning Options by Grade Level
- Grades 9–10: Solidifying foundational knowledge while building academic habits and exploring interests.
- Grades 11–12: Focus on postsecondary planning through Advanced Placement® (AP®) and honors courses, CAVA2College dual enrollment courses, and career and college prep programs.
Supportive Online Learning for Every Student
At CAVA, students take an active role in their education, with every day bringing new opportunities to:
- Attend live virtual lessons: California-credentialed teachers guide students through complex subjects in real time.
- Build important real-world skills: Students learn to manage their time while balancing live classes with self-paced assignments.
- Explore ideas together: Students have a safe, welcoming environment to ask questions, contribute ideas, and learn from one another.
- Get personalized college and career support: Students receive support from amazing teachers and our guidance department to explore career options, prep for college, or develop a plan for their own unique adventure.
Get a Head Start by Earning College Credits Now
CAVA has partnered with Norco College to offer the CAVA2College Program. The CAVA2College initiative gives eligible high school students the opportunity to experience high-quality teaching and learning in selected virtual college courses as they begin their journey toward an associate’s degree and/or transferable credits to four-year universities. Students will enroll in courses that meet both high school and college requirements, allowing them to earn dual credits.
Students who have successfully completed 10th grade (or higher) and meet all program entrance requirements are eligible to participate in the CAVA2College program. The college has agreed to waive the enrollment fee, health fee, and any tuition costs for CAVA students.
Learn Why Students Love CAVA
When it comes to our homework, we have quite a bit of flexibility. This is one of my favorite things because I can do my homework and, at the same time, watch a recording from the teacher, and they’ll explain exactly what I’m struggling with. I’ll be able to go and double-check it, and it’s very helpful.
Matthew
I love my teachers. All of them have different teaching styles, but they all typically have the same flavor of humor, and whenever they bring that, learning becomes fun. We step through a concept, and then we’ll have some classics, some dad jokes. It’s wonderful.
Noah
I’ve liked science since I was young. I was naturally good at it. And I enjoy my AP® Chemistry class. It’s fun, and it’s challenging.”
Madyson
Frequently Asked Questions About Online High School in California
California Virtual Academies are safe, inclusive, local communities that know how to have fun! We have in-person prom, graduation, and other chances for students to connect with local friends and classmates throughout the year! In-person events are great opportunities for your teen to be social, but they are entirely optional.
Students at CAVA can participate in live class sessions, group discussions, and collaborative projects that help build relationships and communication skills. From clubs and extracurriculars to interest-based hangouts, we provide opportunities for social engagement that foster friendships and real-world collaboration skills.
Find out more about student life at our online high school.
Yes, California Virtual Academies are accredited by WASC, a nationally accredited governing body. Accreditation validates diploma eligibility and facilitates credit transfer to universities and other schools worldwide.
Yes, California Virtual Academies use the K12 curriculum, which is aligned with California’s high school standards. Students earn credits that meet state graduation requirements, ensuring their diploma is recognized nationwide for college, the military, or the workforce — whatever their next step may be.
While attending our online school in California, high school students experience a blend of learning formats. This model provides flexibility while maintaining essential structure and accountability:
- Live Classes: For real-time engagement, instruction, and feedback
- Prerecorded Lessons: To review content at their own pace
- Self-Paced Work: To build time-management and critical-thinking skills
In high school, students take on more responsibility for their learning, but they can still benefit from support at home. As a Learning Coach — whether you are a parent, guardian, or other trusted adult — you’ll help your student stay organized, monitor their progress, and step in when needed. Most high schoolers manage their daily learning independently, with occasional guidance and encouragement from their Learning Coach.
By high school, students are largely self-directed. The Learning Coach — whether a parent, guardian, or other trusted adult — plays a background role, dedicating about 1 to 3 hours a day to support their student: checking in on progress, helping with time management, and offering encouragement when needed. California Virtual Academies support students directly through teacher interactions, academic advisors, and college and career prep tools.
Yes, California Virtual Academies are tuition-free public schools that ensure all students can access high-quality education and the complete K12 curriculum without cost barriers. 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.
1The K12 high school catalog is a complete list of the high school courses K12 provides. While CAVA offers a comprehensive selection of courses, not every K12 high school course is available to CAVA students. Information on specific courses of study and available electives is provided upon enrollment. For details, please speak to an enrollment consultant during the enrollment process.
2Many of the courses provided by the California Virtual Academies meet both the University of California and the California State University systems’ “a-g” requirements. However, due to the virtual nature of California Virtual Academies, the UC/CSU college systems do not recognize all the lab sciences or visual performing arts courses as a-g approved for all schools. Additional courses are currently pending approval through the UC/CSU college systems. Please check with your school for the current course status and alternative courses.