Global Online Academy

AAS is a proud member of Global Online Academy (GOA), a non-profit organization that provides modern, global, online learning opportunities for our students in an international network of schools. We are thrilled our students are exploring GOA opportunities and are considering taking a passion-based course through GOA.

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GOA's mission is to reimagine learning to empower students and educators to thrive in a globally networked society.

Learn More About GOA

2021-2022 GOA Course Catalog

2020-2021 Student and Parent Handbook

GOA School Profile

Frequently Asked Questions about GOA

What is the Global Online Academy?

The mission of GOA is to reimagine learning to empower students and educators to thrive in a globally networked society. We deepen learning through courses that equip students with the knowledge, skills and dispositions to be successful in high school, college, career, and life.

Our organization expands educational opportunities for your child by making available the hallmarks of our 115+ member schools - teaching expertise and excellence. By banding together as a consortium, the schools that make up GOA are able to offer far more courses than any single school could offer on its own. Not only that, the global make-up and online format of our courses help students develop modern learning skills such as cross-cultural collaboration, time management, project planning, advocacy, and real world problem-solving.

GOA’s course catalog is comprised of more than 50 unique, passion-driven courses targeting learners in grades 9-12. In addition, we offer a series of shorter, not for credit, flex courses and middle school courses.

Why would my student take a GOA class rather than a class on campus?

How can I be sure this is a quality experience?

Your school has evaluated the GOA program and affirmed that the quality of instruction and student experience are equivalent in quality and experience to the courses offered on campus. GOA courses are observed and evaluated by our staff to ensure they meet the standards of our exemplary schools. All GOA teachers receive 60 hours of professional development prior to teaching a course and are paired with an instructional coach for ongoing mentoring and support. In 2016, GOA became the first online academy to receive accreditation from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

How does it work?

GOA courses are primarily asynchronous, meaning that students do not need to attend pre-determined class meeting times. Instead, teachers design and publish coursework and calendars, and within that framework students can work at their own pace. All student work is submitted and assessed in our Learning Management System. In addition, students communicate frequently with teachers and peers via email, chat, and video call among others. Students can expect to connect synchronously with teachers and classmates via video on a weekly or biweekly basis.

If enrolled, what are the expectations of my student?

During the registration period your child will be made aware that a GOA course takes a similar commitment of time, effort, and engagement as an on campus course. Courses are interactive and dependent upon student participation. Students typically spend 5-7 hours a week on GOA courses -- a significant commitment-- so it’s wise to discuss your student’s readiness with the Site Director and review the “Is GOA Right for YOU?” slidedeck with your child before requesting enrollment.

What can parents expect of GOA?

It is of paramount importance to us that families and schools are in the know when it comes to a GOA student’s experience. As an organization composed of many other organizations, you can expect that we have created frameworks and policies to help us unify our approach to teaching and learning and the student experience. You can expect reliable, regular communication from GOA and your student’s school when it comes to issues of student support and wellness. Our Student and Family Handbook outlines the details of our program.

What important dates are coming up?

March 30, 2021: Course Enrollment period begins for Semester 1, Semester 2, and Yearlong courses in 2020-21. Enrollment completed by Site Director only.
OPEN NOW: Summer@GOA course registration. Enrollment for summer courses can be completed by families or the Site Director.
June 14-July 30, 2021: Summer@GOA in session
September 1, 2021: Semester 1 and Yearlong Courses Open
December 17, 2021: Semester 1 Ends
January 12, 2022: Semester 2 Courses Begin and Yearlong Courses Resume
April 29, 2022: Semester 2 Ends