As a part of the extensive elective course options available to students in grades 9-12, PA Distance offers a variety of computer science courses, including Game Design. Taught by Business Technology teacher, Mr. Gates, Game Design teaches students the foundations of creating video games using JavaScript. 

Regular school attendance is vital for students’ academic and social-emotional success. Research shows that when students are chronically absent (missing 10% or more of the school year or 18 days over an entire year), they are less likely to read proficiently by third grade, succeed in middle school, and ultimately graduate from high school, according to the Attendance Awareness Campaign. 

Setting up productive learning spaces for students is one of the most important parts of a successful school year. While PA Distance provides all of the important tools and materials that each student needs to succeed, it’s up to each family to provide a productive, supportive, and positive learning environment for academic success. 

Ms. Amber Fox is starting her first year at PA Distance as the K-2 art teacher. As a Pennsylvania native, Ms. Fox is excited to kick off her teaching career with an eager group of kindergarten, first-, and second-grade students. 

Ruthie Waters, of Washington, PA, graduated from PA Distance in 2019 after enrolling for her senior year. Along with her enrollment came that of her three younger siblings, Robert, Giovanni, and Samantha, who also found success in our cyber learning environment.

When a child is enrolled at PA Distance they receive shipments with all of the necessary materials required for the entire school year including technology equipment, school supplies, and class-specific items like novels, music equipment, art supplies, and laboratory gear.

Although many of these class-specific items are not shipped out to each student until their schedules are finalized, new students receive a Technology Kit and (new and returning students receive) a Welcome Kit before the very first day of school.