Resources
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If you are an ACCESS student in need of academic support in your course, it is important to communicate your questions or concerns as soon as possible. Students should first contact their ACCESS teacher through Schoology Messages and keep their school-assigned facilitator, school counselor, and parent/guardian informed of any academic concerns or challenges.
Additional support is available through the Madison Regional Support Center. Students may contact a Success Coach through Schoology Messages or reach out to the Support Center by emailing mcaccesshelp@madisoncity.k12.al.us or calling (256) 774-4609. Early communication and seeking help when needed are key to success in an online learning environment.
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Click this link for the ACCESS Academic Calendar.
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Interested in teaching for ACCESS Virtual Learning? ACCESS teachers help expand educational opportunities for students across Alabama by providing high-quality online instruction and support in a virtual learning environment. The information below outlines the qualifications, application process, and ongoing expectations for ACCESS teachers.
Minimum Requirements
To be considered for an ACCESS teaching position, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a valid Alabama teaching certificate in the content area to be taught
- Meet all required background check requirements
- Have at least three years of classroom teaching experience in grades 6–12 within the subject area to be taught through ACCESS
Application Process
Step 1: Submit Application Documents
Complete and submit the MC Teacher Application.
In addition, applicants must also submit the following documents:
- Alabama teaching certificate
- Current resume including subjects taught, schools, and years of experience
- Signed letter of recommendation from the applicant’s current principal on school letterhead
- AP certification, if applicable
Completed application materials should be emailed to Sheri Smith at sdsmith@madisoncity.k12.al.us.
Step 2: Application Review
Applications are reviewed for completeness upon submission and remain on file for 1 year from the date of receipt.
Step 3: Interview Process
Teacher staffing needs for the upcoming school year are evaluated during the spring semester. Based on program needs, selected applicants may be contacted for a phone interview in late spring.
Step 4: Teacher Training
Selected teachers will be invited to participate in required ACCESS training sessions and complete online training modules before teaching ACCESS courses.
*Please note that completion of the application process does not guarantee employment with ACCESS Virtual Learning.
Annual Teacher Requirements
ACCESS teachers are expected to participate in ongoing professional learning and communication throughout the school year. Annual expectations include the following:
- Daily monitoring of their ACCESS email accounts
- Attending monthly online faculty meetings
- Participating in the annual summer Teacher Day professional development event by attending in person or completing the required online Teacher Day modules
- Joining and actively monitoring the following Schoology groups:
- Connecting ACCESS Staff & Teachers – Madison City (CAST-MC)
- Connecting ACCESS Staff & Teachers – Alabama State Department of Education (CAST-ALSDE)
We appreciate educators who are committed to supporting student achievement and providing engaging, high-quality online learning experiences for students across Alabama.
For additional information, contact the Madison Regional Support Center and review the ACCESS Policy Manual.
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For students enrolled in ACCESS Virtual Learning courses who have IEP, 504, or EL Plans, these documents must be submitted to ACCESS through PowerSchool Special Programs. Depending on the LEA, plans may be uploaded at either the local school or district level.
Instructions and resources for submitting Special Population documents are provided below. If you have questions regarding Special Population students or the upload process, please contact your ACCESS Support Center for assistance.
For more information regarding ACCESS and Special Population students, please refer to the ACCESS Policy Manual for Schools: Special Populations.
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Teachers should log in to https://accessvl.schoology.com to access and manage their ACCESS courses. If you need assistance with your ACCESS Schoology or ACCESS PowerTeacher Pro login credentials, please email ALSDE for assistance at schoologyenrollments@alsde.edu.
Teachers should check their ACCESS emails daily and also join the following Schoology Groups to stay informed and connected:
- CAST-MC (Connecting ACCESS Staff & Teachers – Madison City) for information regarding faculty meetings, professional development, weekly Faculty Focus newsletters, updates, announcements, and instructional resources
- CAST-ALSDE (Connecting ACCESS Staff & Teachers – Alabama State Department of Education) for statewide ACCESS updates, professional development opportunities, course-specific training information, and registration details for ACCESS professional learning sessions
For additional assistance, contact the Madison Regional ACCESS Support Center by phone at 256-774-4609 or by email at mcaccesshelp@madisoncity.k12.al.us.
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Technology Requirements
To successfully participate in ACCESS Virtual Learning Web-Based Instruction (WBI) courses, students must have regular access to a computer and reliable Internet service during the school day. Students should have access for the duration of a class period—approximately 90 minutes per day for block schedules and 55 minutes per day for traditional schedules. Headphones with microphones are highly recommended.
While most coursework can be completed during the school day, some assignments may require additional work outside of school. Students without home Internet or computer access should notify their ACCESS teacher and facilitator and may consider utilizing local community resources, such as public libraries.
Recommended Devices and Browsers
ACCESS courses are compatible with a variety of modern devices. For the best experience, students are encouraged to use a desktop computer, laptop, or Chromebook.
ACCESS supports current versions of the following web browsers:
- Google Chrome
- Microsoft Edge
- Mozilla Firefox
- Apple Safari
Using an up-to-date browser helps ensure that course tools and features function properly.
Locating ACCESS Courses
ACCESS courses are accessed through the ACCESS Schoology platform at accessvl.schoology.com.
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Accessing Your ACCESS Courses
ACCESS courses are located on the ACCESS Schoology platform at accessvl.schoology.com.
Student login credentials:
- Username: 10-digit State Student ID (SSID)
- Password: Password provided by the school facilitator
- If prompted to select a school, choose ACCESS Virtual Learning, Montgomery, AL.
Students who do not know their SSIDs (student numbers) can locate them in their PowerSchool or contact their school facilitators or counselors for this information.
Creating a New Password
Upon first login, students may be prompted to create a new password. After successfully creating a new password,
- Open a new browser tab
- Go to accessvl.schoology.com
- Log in using the new password.
- If prompted to select a school, select ACCESS Virtual Learning, Montgomery, AL.
Login Troubleshooting
Username or password not working?
- Check the URL and verify that you are on the ACCESS Schoology platform at accessvl.schoology.com.
- Verify that your username and password are entered correctly.
- Remove any extra spaces before or after your username or password.
- Passwords must contain at least 12 characters.
Still unable to log in after resetting your password?
- Open a new browser window or try a different browser.
- Navigate directly to accessvl.schoology.com and attempt to log in again.
Having trouble locating your courses?
- Check the URL to verify you are logging into accessvl.schoology.com, not your local school's Schoology instance.
- Confirm that you selected ACCESS Virtual Learning, Montgomery, AL, if prompted to choose a school.
- If you are logged in, select “Courses” or the “Course Dashboard” at the top of your ACCESS page.
Course Materials Are Not Visible
Student Orientation must be completed before course materials become visible. A green check mark and “Complete” will appear under the Student Orientation folder when all items have been completed.
Submitting Assignments Without Microsoft Office
Students using devices without Microsoft Office may complete assignments using Google Drive:
- Download and open the assignment.
- Select File → Save as Google Doc.
- Complete the assignment.
- Select File → Download → PDF.
- Return to the assignment in Schoology.
- Select Submit Assignment and upload the PDF.
Need additional assistance?
Contact your school facilitator or counselor for login support and course assistance. If additional help is needed, contact your ACCESS Support Center.
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What is the ACCESS Virtual Learning program?
ACCESS Virtual Learning (Alabama Connecting Classrooms, Educators, and Students Statewide) is an education initiative of the Alabama Department of Education. It provides opportunities and options for Alabama public high school students to engage in Advanced Placement (AP), elective, and other courses to which they may not otherwise have access or be able to schedule.
Where are ACCESS Virtual Learning courses delivered?
All ACCESS Virtual Learning courses are delivered through the ACCESS Schoology platform. Through Schoology, students access course materials, submit assignments, communicate with teachers, and monitor their academic progress.
ACCESS courses are generally completed during the regular school day at the student's school or another school-approved location in accordance with Alabama State Department of Education guidelines. While some coursework may be completed outside of school, all tests and exams must be administered under the supervision of the student's school-assigned facilitator.
Student grades are available in the student's local PowerSchool account under "Grades from Another District."
What are the responsibilities of schools and school systems participating in ACCESS?
Participating schools and school systems play an important role in supporting student success in ACCESS Virtual Learning courses. Schools are responsible for providing the technology and instructional resources needed for participation, including computers, Internet access, required software, textbooks, and other course-specific materials. Schools must also provide on-site facilitators and establish local procedures to support students throughout their ACCESS experience.
Additional responsibilities include the following:
- Monitoring student progress and participation
- Determining local policies regarding honor points, course weighting, and other academic considerations
- Following all ACCESS and local policies, including but not limited to enrollment, prerequisites, course withdrawals, student behavior, lab safety, communication, professional development, technology and Internet use, registration, and Special Populations.
For additional information, refer to the ACCESS Policy Manual for Schools.
Who teaches ACCESS Virtual Learning courses?
At a minimum, all ACCESS Virtual Learning teachers must meet the following requirements:
• Hold Alabama certification in their content areas
• Are highly qualified in the content areas they teach
• Meet background check requirements (including fingerprinting)
• Complete ongoing professional development provided by ACCESS Virtual Learning
Does the on-site classroom facilitator have to be a certified teacher?
No. The on-site facilitator is not required to be a certified teacher. Facilitators must be adult supervisors who have completed the required ACCESS Facilitator Training and meet any local school or district requirements for working with students in a school setting. Many schools successfully use paraprofessionals and other qualified staff members in this role.
When do classes begin and end?
Students follow both their local school calendar and the ACCESS Academic Calendar. Schools typically enroll students in ACCESS courses that align as closely as possible with their local academic schedule. Course start dates, enrollment deadlines, drop dates, and end dates are established by the Alabama State Department of Education and are published on the ACCESS Academic Calendar.
Participating schools may choose to end a student's ACCESS course earlier to align with local scheduling needs; however, schools may not extend ACCESS course deadlines or end dates beyond those established on the ACCESS Academic Calendar.
How do students register for ACCESS Virtual Learning courses?
Students do not register directly for ACCESS Virtual Learning courses. All course enrollments must be submitted through the student's local school, typically by a school counselor or designated school representative. Students interested in taking an ACCESS course should contact their school counselor or administrator for enrollment information.
What are the characteristics of successful online learners?
Successful online learners are typically self-motivated, organized, and willing to take responsibility for their learning. They manage their time effectively, communicate regularly with teachers and facilitators, and are comfortable using technology to complete coursework and access resources.
Students who thrive in an online learning environment often:
- Work independently while seeking help when needed
- Stay on pace with assignments and deadlines
- Communicate clearly and respectfully
- Demonstrate academic honesty and integrity
- Read instructions carefully and follow course expectations
- Participate actively in learning activities
- Adapt to new technologies and learning experiences
- Take initiative and remain engaged in their coursework
While students develop these skills at different rates, a positive attitude, strong work habits, and a willingness to ask questions are key factors in achieving success in an ACCESS course.
What is expected of a virtual learning student?
Students enrolled in ACCESS Virtual Learning courses are expected to take an active role in their learning and participate regularly in course activities. Successful students engage in daily coursework, communicate with their teachers and facilitators, and stay on pace with assignments and deadlines.
Students are expected to fulfill a variety of responsibilities that support success in an online learning environment, including but not limited to the following:
- Participating in daily learning activities, including discussions, projects, labs, group work, writing assignments, and assessments
- Reading lessons and course updates regularly
- Communicating with teachers through Schoology Messages and responding promptly to teacher communications
- Following course pacing guides and meeting assignment deadlines
- Asking questions and seeking assistance when needed
- Demonstrating academic honesty and integrity
- Completing their own work unless otherwise directed by the teacher
- Meeting all prerequisite requirements for enrolled courses
- Following all ACCESS, local school, and classroom policies and expectations
Students who stay engaged, communicate regularly, and manage their time effectively are more likely to have a successful and rewarding online learning experience.
Can ACCESS courses help accommodate students transferring from schools with different scheduling formats?
Yes. ACCESS Virtual Learning courses can help Alabama public schools meet the needs of students transitioning between different scheduling formats, such as moving from a block schedule to a traditional seven-period day. However, it is the responsibility of the school and the student to select courses that best support the student's individual academic needs and graduation requirements.
How are science labs conducted in ACCESS courses, and what are the responsibilities of the lab facilitator?
Science courses may include both virtual labs and hands-on laboratory experiences. Hands-on labs must be supervised by a trained educator who is knowledgeable in the safe handling and use of laboratory equipment. The local school is responsible for identifying and providing a qualified lab facilitator and ensuring appropriate supervision during all hands-on lab activities.
Lab facilitation may be arranged in a variety of ways based on local school resources. In many cases, a science teacher at the school serves as the lab facilitator for students enrolled in ACCESS science courses. The lab facilitator supports the completion of required laboratory activities but is not responsible for the day-to-day instruction or management of the ACCESS course.
Is there a cost for students to take ACCESS Virtual Learning courses?
No. ACCESS Virtual Learning courses are provided at no cost to students enrolled in Alabama public schools in grades 6–12. Eligible students attending non-public schools may also participate at no cost.
For information about non-public school participation, contact the Troy ACCESS Support Center at 334-808-6323.