VESPA (Virtual East Penn School Academy) is East Penn School District’s full-time K–12 virtual learning program. Students complete asynchronous online coursework from home while remaining fully enrolled in EPSD and connected to school-based supports, activities, and events.
VESPA is available to all K–12 students residing in the East Penn School District. The program is free of charge for all families within the District.
New enrollments are accepted prior to the start of each marking period associated with the student’s grade level. Families should contact the appropriate school counselor or administrator well in advance of the enrollment window to discuss next steps.
Yes. Students who fulfill East Penn School District graduation requirements through VESPA receive an East Penn School District diploma.
VESPA students engage in asynchronous online coursework delivered by vendors vetted through the Capital Area Online Learning Association (CAOLA) and supported by Carbon Lehigh Intermediate Unit (IU21). This coursework offers flexibility and can be completed at the student’s own pace while meeting established weekly deadlines.
The required weekly synchronous check-in is a brief, scheduled virtual meeting between VESPA students and a member of the VESPA team. This check-in allows staff to review academic progress, monitor attendance, address questions, and ensure the student has the support needed to be successful in a virtual learning environment.
VESPA students participate in this requirement through a weekly virtual group meeting facilitated by VESPA staff. These meetings are designed to build community and provide developmentally appropriate support. At the elementary and middle school levels, sessions include delivery of the district’s K–8 counseling curriculum and skill-building activities that support success in virtual learning. At the high school level, sessions include marking period updates, course planning, college and career exploration, and virtual learning skill development.
Students must attend their designated grade-level session each week and participate with their cameras on.
Most synchronous check-ins are scheduled for 30 minutes.
If a student cannot attend the scheduled meeting, a parent/guardian or the student should contact the VESPA Advisor in advance to coordinate an alternative time for that week.
The check-in is a component of weekly attendance monitoring and is considered alongside coursework completion.
The VESPA team will follow up with the family, review attendance expectations, and determine whether additional supports or interventions are needed. Failure to comply with this requirement will result in an exit from the program.
Yes! VESPA students are full East Penn School District students and may participate in district-sponsored clubs, sports, school events, field trips, and activities.
Students and families are supported by a dedicated team of East Penn School District professionals, including the Director of Educational Alternatives, EPSD teachers, school counselors, student support staff, and technology services.
Yes. Eligible high school students may take approved online dual enrollment courses through Lehigh Carbon Community College while enrolled in VESPA.
Yes. Technology is issued by the East Penn School District and supported by the District’s technology department. Students are required to adhere to the District’s Acceptable Use Policy.
East Penn School District staff provide academic support, attendance monitoring, and intervention plans. A school counselor is also available to assist students with academic, social-emotional, and postsecondary planning needs.
VESPA keeps students enrolled in the East Penn School District, ensuring they receive high-quality coursework, academic support, EPSD technology, and the opportunity to participate in district athletics, clubs, and activities while allowing the flexibility of learning from home.
Families should reach out to the appropriate staff member based on their child’s grade level. Elementary parents/guardians should contact their home building principal. Middle school parents/guardians should contact the student’s grade-level administrator and school counselor. High school parents/guardians should contact their student’s school counselor. These staff members can provide guidance on VESPA, enrollment timelines, and next steps.
Families should contact their student’s case manager or school counselor. They can assist with scheduling an IEP meeting, clarifying services, and addressing questions about how supports may be delivered.