After nearly a year of all students being back on campus after COVID-19 disruptions the previous two years, a virtual school option will be back for the 2022-2023 school year.

“This is something we have been working on for years and we are thankful that Senate Bill 15 has propelled us forward in this journey,” Frisco ISD Superintendent Dr. Mike Waldrip said in a FISD news release. “We are always looking for ways to evolve while expanding opportunities for our students and staff.” 

The hybrid system, FISD+,  will allow for core classes to be done online and extracurricular activities in person. Labs for sciences will also be done in person when needed or if the student has to pick up any required materials. 

There is also a completely online option, but it will hinder the student’s ability to participate in things like competitions, certain extracurriculars, and  CTE programs. 

“I would definitely choose the hybrid option because I’m in theater and other extracurriculars, ” junior Ella Lewis said. “I would want to be able to go to our UILs and perform and I am sure other students in band and such would want that too.” 

Although these classes are not in a brick and mortar building, there will still be active connection with others and this social aspect may not be hindered as much as it was before.

“Teaching and learning will look different depending on the class,” Frisco ISD Director of Innovative Learning Tiffany Carey said in a FISD news release. “But students can generally expect to work independently and collaboratively, while also frequently engaging with a teacher in live instruction.”

Both of these programs still meet all the requirements to graduate making either option completely dependent on the student and their guardian. “I think it requires a strong commitment from the student to their learning,,” English teacher David Barr said. “However the flexibility it offers is an exciting opportunity for the field of education. ”