By offering the traditional high school curriculum via the internet and videoconferencing technology, ACCESS gives students from across Alabama academic opportunities they would not have otherwise. ACCESS allows students to take AP courses, earn advanced diplomas, learn a foreign language and take electives that some local schools are not able to offer. The program is coordinated by the Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE) in Montgomery and has three regional support centers that train, evaluate and support ACCESS teachers. All teachers are certified to teach in the state of Alabama in their area of expertise.
ACCESS Costs
All funding for ACCESS classes is provided through the ALSDE at no cost to school districts. The only cost to schools and school districts are technology equipment and a computer classroom where students can complete coursework and take proctored exams during the school day, as well as a facilitator who monitors the students while they complete their coursework.
About ACCESS
ALSDE What Is ACCESS Video Transcript
What is ACCESS?
ACCESS stands for Alabama Connecting Classrooms, Educators and Students Statewide.
But what does that mean?
ACCESS is Alabama’s free public virtual learning program.
We provide free online and videoconferencing courses to students at public middle schools and high schools.
Students throughout the state of Alabama take ACCESS courses.
Our online classes can be taken any time, any place and at any pace.
Your child’s classes are taught by certified teachers, who guide your child through the course, answer questions, email your child and provide feedback on your child’s work.
ACCESS teachers will help your child succeed. Don’t be afraid to contact your child’s teacher with any questions or concerns.
Your child’s school should assign an on-site facilitator to support your child.
The facilitator is a school employee who will assist with technical problems, watch over your child during tests and help them stay on task.
If you don’t know your child’s facilitator, ask the school guidance counselor.
In addition to following the teacher’s rules and policies, make sure your child follows the facilitator’s rules and policies.
If your child works hard in the class and communicates regularly with the teacher for feedback, advice and help, your child can succeed in the ACCESS course.
Now that you know what ACCESS is, feel free to contact your support center with any questions at 334-242-9594.