Suttons Bay is in a class all its own.
Its virtual school is like none other in the state.
“We’re the only program in Michigan with dedicated staff for each grade level,” Superintendent Casey Petz said.
Suttons Bay Public School began as a fledging program for the 2008-09 school year. And as of this spring, the alternative education option has grown and produced 42 graduates in June — four more than inseat grads.
The program is unlike other online schools in that the students develop relationship with their instructors, with a focus on students’ individual needs. Its virtual counterpart had 175. Suttons Bay Virtual students must earn 18 credits to graduate; traditional students, 22.
“We meet students where they are; establish goals and work to get them where they need to be,” Petz said.”
Teachers meet regularly with students — at school or in other sites such as a library.
The virtual program is attractive to students who prefer to excel their education and others who need to tackle things more slowly. It can also be attractive to students who struggle emotionally or socially.
“Kids that struggle with anxiety and other health issues it’s a safe environment where they can learn at their level… their speed,” Petz said.
As of Aug. 21, Suttons Bay’s in-seat enrollment K-12 stood at 360. This is good news for Suttons Bay which is the only school district in the county that is funded by the state foundation allowance, where aid is based per pupil.
“Our numbers are looking stable,” Petz said last week. “We’re replacing our outgoing class with the same number.”
However, the official enrollment won’t be realized immediately as a fourth Wednesday count is not until October.
“We’ll be enrolling virtually through the month of September,” Petz said.
More information about Suttons Bay Virtual is available at suttonsbayschools.com.
