Elementary School
Why Choose CalOPS?
Explore our online school experience: flexible daily scheduling, interactive virtual classrooms, personalized support for each student’s educational journey, and so much more.
Age Requirements
Transitional Kindergarten:
Must be 4 years old on or before September 1 of the school year.
Kindergarten:
Must be 5 years old on or before September 1 of the school year.
First Grade:
Must be 6 years old on or before September 1 of the school year.
Roles and Expectations
For California Online Public Schools children in grades TK-5, parents and caretakers play an important part in everyday learning. You should expect to:
Students are expected to actively participate in their learning journey. Here's what students should expect:
Academics
Student Life
*Recommended Minimum
**Recommended Average
| Grade Level | Hours per Day* | Hours per Week** |
|---|---|---|
| TK | 2 - 3 | 16 |
| Kindergarten | 2 - 3 | 24 |
| Grade 1 | 3 - 4 | 24 |
Teachers offer daily LiveClasses for students to attend to support foundational skills that align with course content.
- 8:00 am - 9:15 am
- Begin asynchronous course work for the day
- 9:15 am - 9:30 am
- Break/Snack
- 9:30 am - 10:15 am
- Attend daily Math LiveClass (LiveClass times vary)
California Online Public School teachers focus on creating an engaging approach to education, designed to interest young learners and encourage active participation in their learning journey.
The Achieve program offered by California Online Public Schools for elementary gifted and talented students enhances general education by providing advanced learners with opportunities to delve deeper into subjects, explore alternative concepts, and showcase their learning through creative means. Starting from 3rd grade, this program is led by teachers certified in gifted and talented education. To qualify for the Achieve program, students are assessed using the Naglieri NonVerbal Ability Test (NNAT-3) and need to meet program requirements.
For more information, please contact: elementaryachieve@californiaops.org
- Differentiated Grade-Level Curriculum
- Junior Great Books Literature Study
- STEAM Labs
- Passions Projects
Frequently Asked Questions
How does CalOPS work?
CalOPS, short for California Online Public Schools, has been serving students since 2004, offering WASC-accredited, tuition-free schooling to guarantee students in grades TK–12 the highest quality education tailored to their individual needs. At the heart of CalOPS are our dedicated staff members who are passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of their students. Their deep level of care and commitment is what sets CalOPS apart and helps foster a supportive and encouraging learning environment.
The operation of CalOPS centers around a user-friendly, digital learning environment where students engage with credentialed teachers, course materials, and classmates through a combination of interactive live online classes, and independent study. This blended approach allows for a personalized learning experience, enabling students to progress at their own daily pace while adhering to state educational standards.
Enrollment in CalOPS is similar to that of any public school in California, but with the added convenience of completing the process online. Once enrolled, students receive the necessary resources and, in some cases, technology devices like laptops or tablets, to facilitate their learning.
A typical day for a CalOPS student varies depending on grade level and individual schedules but generally includes a mix of synchronous (live) instruction, asynchronous assignments, and periodic online and in-person social activities. The school’s convenient daily scheduling is particularly beneficial for students with special circumstances, such as young athletes or artists with demanding training or rehearsal schedules, allowing them to pursue their education without compromising their passions or talents.
Furthermore, CalOPS places a strong emphasis on community and support, offering various resources such as academic counseling, college and career planning services, and virtual high school clubs to enhance the educational experience.
In summary, CalOPS works by providing a flexible, comprehensive, and supportive online educational environment that caters to the unique needs of each student, ensuring that all have the opportunity to succeed academically, regardless of their personal circumstances or learning styles.
What do I need to enroll my child in school in California?
Enrolling your child in a school in California requires gathering several key documents and fulfilling specific criteria to ensure a smooth and compliant registration process. A concise overview of what you’ll need is provided below. Please note that different schools may have varying requirements:
- Proof of Age: A birth certificate, passport, or baptism certificate can serve as proof of your child’s age. Schools typically require students to be of a certain age by a specific date to enroll in kindergarten or first grade.
- Proof of Residency: You’ll need to provide evidence that you reside within the school district. Acceptable documents often include utility bills (like water, gas, electric), lease agreements, or property tax receipts with your address.
- Immunization Records: California schools require up-to-date immunization records for diseases such as measles, mumps, polio, and others.
- Academic Records: For students transferring from another school, you may need to provide academic records or transcripts to help place your child in the appropriate grade level and classes.
- Special Needs Documentation:If your child has any special educational needs or an active 504 Plan or Individualized Education Program (IEP), you may need to submit these documents.
- Legal Documentation: If applicable, legal documents such as custody agreements or restraining orders may need to be provided to the school administration.
It’s advisable to contact the specific school or school district you’re interested in for a comprehensive list of requirements, as there might be additional forms or documents needed. The enrollment process can often be initiated online for convenience, but finalizing enrollment may require an in-person visit to submit documents and meet with school officials.
How long is each day in online school?
The duration of each day in an online school varies by school, grade, program, and individual schedules, typically reflecting traditional school hours but with greater flexibility. Elementary students might engage in 3-5 hours of both instruction and independent work daily, whereas middle and high school students could expect 6-8 hours, encompassing live classes, asynchronous tasks, and study time. Additionally, students are generally required to attend school and complete coursework through the last day of the school year, ensuring a full and comprehensive educational experience.
Online schools offer the advantage of flexible scheduling, allowing students to spread their workload throughout the day and week to suit their personal and family commitments. This adaptability extends to completing asynchronous assignments at convenient times and attending live sessions within the school’s set time frames.
Online schools not only match the daily educational commitment of traditional schools but also enhance the learning experience by incorporating breaks, extracurricular activities, and self-guided learning periods into the schedule. This holistic approach enriches education, supports a balanced lifestyle, and caters to diverse learning styles and external commitments, such as sports or arts. The flexible structure of online education makes it a viable and adaptable option for families, allowing for a personalized approach to learning and time management that accommodates the unique needs and schedules of each student.
Meet our Team
“Our CalOPS culture is centered around building relationships and doing what is best for kids. Each child is given a fresh start and our staff seeks to connect with each child/family and understand their unique needs so students can find success.”
“I love that at CalOPS we work to support students to reach their potential. We know that each child is special and deserves a caring, safe, and engaging education.”
“CalOPS is truly a place where every child is known, supported and loved by caring teachers and administration. We focus on creating a safe space with academic rigor and a passion for lifelong learning!”
“California Online Public Schools allows us to truly focus on our students and their needs. Academic growth and achievement is of the utmost importance to us. However, we know that it all starts with caring relationships. Our teachers are here to instruct, listen, and do anything within their power to help our students succeed!”
Community & Resources
Whether you live in one of California’s small towns or big cities, your local community is a part of who you are. And that makes it a part of who we are too. To help you support your student’s success, we offer plenty of resources or support, including:
- Easy ways to connect with teachers and our staff whenever you have questions or need additional support
- Technical support from California Online Public Schools representatives to help troubleshoot computer-related issues
- A parent network where you can connect with other parents to share tips and advice
Looking for More Elementary Resources? Click Here
Get Started Here
Find out why families choose CalOPS
“My son thrives at CalOPS, earning High Honor Roll! CalOPS is one of the top tuition-free schools, fostering his success. Thank you for contributing to his academic achievement!”
– PARENT OF 4TH GRADER IN ALAMEDA COUNTY
“My son thrives at CalOPS, earning High Honor Roll! CalOPS is one of the top tuition-free schools, fostering his success. Thank you for contributing to his academic achievement!”
– PARENT OF 4TH GRADER IN ALAMEDA COUNTY
