California Online Charter

Admissions

• Who can apply to JAA Online?

  We encourage all families residing in Northern California and interested in the Online Program to apply! However, John Adams Academy can only enroll students in the Online Program in compliance with the law.

  The Academy may only enroll scholars in the Online Program who reside within the county in which the Academy campus is located, or who reside within a neighboring (adjacent) county.

  • Residents of the following counties are eligible to apply for the Lincoln and Roseville Online Program: Placer, Nevada, Sutter, Yuba, Sacramento, and El Dorado Counties.
  • Residents of the following counties are eligible to apply for the El Dorado Hills Online Program: El Dorado, Sacramento, Placer, Amador, and Alpine Counties.

  The application only seeks basic contact information to facilitate the lottery and confirm the scholar lives in a county where the Online Program is available.  We do not ask for a scholar's transcripts, or if the scholar receives special education services, or any other academic information in the application to participate in the lottery or as a condition of enrollment.

  John Adams Academy desires to serve all scholars subject to legal requirements and capacity.  Please note, that California Education Code does not allow scholars with exceptional needs/disabilities to participate in independent study unless their IEP specifically provides for participation in an independent study.  We encourage all families, including families with scholars with exceptional needs, to consider and apply to the Online Program if they believe this program will benefit their scholars.  If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Jessica Sprinkles, Director of Scholar Services at Jessica.Sprinkles@JohnAdamsAcademy.org so that we may further assist you.

• What grade levels does JAA Online serve?

  The grade levels served Online match the grade levels offered at each campus' in-person program.

  •       JAA-El Dorado Hills-Online, TK-12
  •       JAA-Lincoln-Online, TK-12
  •       JAA-Roseville-Online, TK-12

• How do we apply?

  John Adams Academy accepts applications through our enrollment system SchoolMint. SchoolMint allows you to apply to any John Adams Academy program, and track your waitlist number at any time.  Once you get offered a seat, you may submit all registration paperwork through SchoolMint!  For a step-by-step guide on how to apply, click HERE.

• When can we apply?

  The Academy begins accepting applications for the Online program in January for the upcoming school year through our enrollment system "SchoolMint". Applications received between January 9^th and February10th will be used to determine if a lottery is needed in a particular grade within each campus' Online program. Applicants who apply after Feb 10 will automatically go on a waitlist after the lottery is finished. The lottery will determine not only who gets an offer, but also the waitlist number for those who do not get an offer.  If the grade does not need a lottery because it has a waitlist, new scholars applying will go directly on that existing waitlist. Additional information about lotteries will be emailed to those who have applied to John Adams Academy-Online.

• Age Requirements

  • Kindergarten (2025-26 school year)
    Must turn 5 on or before September 1, 2025 to be eligible.
  • 1st Grade (2025-26 school year)
    Must turn 6 on or before September 1, 2025 to be eligible. 
  • All Other Grades
    For second (2) through twelve (12) grade enrollment, John Adams Academy accepts applications based on the grade level that the scholar completed in the previous school year or is currently enrolled in for the current school year. 

  Email online.private@johnadamsacademy.org for questions regarding age requirements.

• Do JAA Online scholars need to meet California Immunization requirements for school enrollment?

  The Online Program is a fully online independent study program, and therefore scholars enrolled in the Online Program are generally not required to meet California immunization requirements in order to enroll. 

  However, Online Program scholars must meet the California immunization requirements in order to participate in any of the optional in-person enrichment activities or sports.

  Please note all Online Program scholars are required to provide documentation showing their immunization status to the school even if they are exempted from California immunization requirements as full-time online scholars.  For more information about California's immunization requirements, please visit: https://www.shotsforschool.org/k-12/.

• Can in-person scholars enrolled in John Adams Academy transfer to JAA-Online?

  Scholars are not able to “transfer” between Academy campuses, or between the in-person and online programs at John Adams Academy.  If a scholar who is currently enrolled in the in-person program would like to attend the Online program, they would simply apply via SchoolMint.

  If a scholar who is currently enrolled in an Academy in-person program is offered a seat to the online program and is enrolled in the online program, then they are withdrawn from the in-person program and that seat is offered to the next person on the waitlist seeking to enroll into the in-person program. Applications to the online program are subject to lotteries and seats are offered based on capacity.

• Can my scholar switch from JAA Online to "in-person" during the school year?

  No. John Adams Academy Online is a separate and dedicated program within John Adams Academy.  Scholars apply separately to the in-person program and the online program.  Each program has its own waitlist.   If a scholar is enrolled in the online program and desires to attend the in-person program, they would need to submit a separate application.  Offers of enrollment to both the online program and in-person programs are subject to capacity.

• Does JAA Online Charter accept scholars from outside of California and internationally?

  No, JAA Online Charter does not accept scholars outside of California and non-U.S. scholars. JAA Online Charter is only tuition-free for families residing in one of these eight counties in California: Alpine, Amador, El Dorado, Placer, Nevada, Sacramento, Sutter and Yuba. If you do not reside in one of these counties, please visit JAA Online Private School.  https://www.jaaonline.org/private JAA Online Private does accept scholars from outside California and internationally.

• Does JAA Online Charter accept homeschooled scholars?

  Yes, JAA Online Charter does accept homeschooled scholars.

• Do all application documents need to be in English?

  Yes. Any transcripts or documents for scholars must be translated into English prior to application submission.

• Does your school offer a GED program?

  No. JAA Online is not a diploma completion program, nor is it a school for adult learners.

• Does JAA Online Charter offer a summer academic term?

  No.

• How do grade levels work at JAA Online Charter?

  Scholars' grade levels are set by their graduation year, regardless of which courses they are taking.

Academics

• What are Charter Schools?

  Charter schools are public schools of choice that serve all scholars, offering open enrollment, tuition-free education, and facilitating public lotteries for admission. Created and managed by local educators, parents, and community leaders, charter schools operate independently from traditional district governance structures but are held accountable through local and state oversight of operations and academic outcomes. Authorized for five-year terms, they are either renewed or shut down based on performance. California approved the Charter Schools Act in 1992, becoming the second state in the nation to do so after Minnesota. For nearly 30 years, California's charter schools have been reinventing public education, offering a practical and flexible option for scholars and families.

• What equipment / supplies are provided by the Academy?

  The Academy will provide the necessary equipment, books and curriculum. It is preferred that they use the technology equipment being supplied by the Academy. Using the Academy supplied devices allows scholars an easier time utilizing the software for their course modules when software updates occur or when scholars need to participate in annual state testing. Scholars are required to use Academy technology during all LIVE sessions. Families are expected to provide internet access that meet these specs.

• How are special education and accommodations handled?

  John Adams Academy serves all interested scholars subject to capacity and legal requirements and does not discriminate against any scholar or applicant.  We encourage all families, including families with scholars with exceptional needs, to consider and apply to the Online Program if they believe this program will benefit their scholar.  As the parent, you are choosing this home-based, online format for your scholar where families have a greater role and responsibility in their scholar's education. For instance, parents will assist and guide scholars as the "one-to-one learning coach" with support from Academy teachers.  Additionally, parents should understand Online Program services are generally delivered in a virtual format.

  With all scholars, we strive to provide the best care possible regardless of their needs.  John Adams Academy will serve all Online Program scholars with IEPs (Individual Education Plans) and 504 Plans per their IEPs/504 Plans in compliance with the law and the charter.  As mentioned in Question #1 above, John Adams Academy must comply with legal restrictions concerning serving scholars via independent study.  If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Jessica Sprinkles, Director of Scholar Services at Jessica.Sprinkles@JohnAdamsAcademy.org so that we may further assist you!

• What is the difference between LIVE and FLEX programs?

  Our LIVE program offers interactive, real-time classes accessible from anywhere in the world, following Pacific Standard Time (PST).

  Our FLEX option offers the same online curriculum without the requirement of live class meetings. Scholars are provided with timeline benchmarks to complete their work within the semester, but they have the flexibility to progress at their own pace. Instructors offer feedback, grade assignments, and are available to answer any questions throughout the course.

  1. ALL scholars MUST participate in LIVE Flag/Leadership courses. 

  2. Elementary FLEX Course Offerings Include: Humanities, Math, Art, Music, and PE 

  3. Secondary FLEX Course Offerings Include: Humanities, Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Latin, Spanish, American Government & Economics, Moral and Political Philosophy, Art, Music, and Computer Science.  

  Scholars will have an opportunity to make their selection for LIVE or FLEX before the start of the school year in a Google Form sent to them.  

• Is the online curriculum the same as the on-campus curriculum?

  The online curriculum is the same as the on-campus curriculum for all core classes. The only difference is in the electives offered. 

• Does JAA Online Charter require state testing?

  The California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) program requires that all public schools in California administer standardized tests designated by the California State Board of Education to all scholars in grades 3 through 8 and grade 11. All scholars are expected to participate in standardized testing.

• Does JAA Online Charter facilitate learning assessments?

  Learning Assessments provide valuable information to scholars and educators. This vital information enables scholars, educators, and parents to understand what our scholars already know and what they are ready to learn next. These learning assessments are a critical component in developing their individualized learning plan. Assessments are administered using Curriculum Associates (iReady).

• Do JAA Online Charter scholars receive 1:1 mentor support?

  Scholars have opportunities to sign up for office hours with their mentors. Elementary scholars participate in small groups and also receive a monthly 1-1 mentor meeting.

• Do JAA Online Charter scholars receive a stipend for enrichment activities?

  We do not offer a stipend for enrichment activities. However, online scholars can sign up for enrichment activities offered specifically for online scholars. Scholars may participate in enrichment, athletic and social events that happen “after the bell” (end of school day) at the campus their scholar is associated with as long as they meet California Education Immunization requirements. 

  A scholar enrolled in JAA Online at one campus is not able to attend in-person afterschool enrichment activities at another campus.

  In-person school enrichment activities are optional; these activities are not part of JAA Online requirements. The Academy strives to make in-person activities available for scholars in order to enhance their academic experience. Scholars will not face any academic consequences for electing not to participate in these activities.

  In-person enrichment/athletic offerings vary by campus and grade, but may include: band, choir, drama, basketball, volleyball, soccer, cross country, tennis, and golf.  

  In-person social opportunities may include: Elementary and Middle School fundraising events, socials, movies, game nights, etc., High School dances, formals, fundraising events, etc. 

• JAA Online Charter a homeschool option and what does that mean?

  Yes, JAA Online Charter is considered a homeschool option. Homeschooling is an educational method where parents or guardians take primary responsibility for their child's education, providing instruction at home rather than sending them to a traditional brick-and-mortar school. At JAA Online, parents or guardians partner with our credentialed educators to help guide their child’s learning providing a structured curriculum, support, and resources to ensure a well-rounded classical education. This partnership allows families the flexibility of homeschooling with the added benefit of professional educational guidance.

• Does JAA Online Charter offer AP courses?

  No, we offer honors courses aligned with California State University standards. Please refer to the main JAA webpage for further details.

• Can scholars in grades 7-8 take high school courses?

  Advanced placement math is available; however, high school credit is not awarded for these courses. Scholars are still required to complete three years of math during their high school enrollment. Please refer to the main website for any additional information on this policy.

• Does JAA Online Charter offer dual enrollment? Can high school scholars take college courses?

  Not at this time, though this is something we are considering for the future.

• How are lab experiments facilitated?

  Scholars complete labs at home using commonly available materials or lab kits sent to scholars' homes.

• How are class times determined?

  Classes are scheduled in the morning, allowing families to use the afternoons for their own activities.

• What are the JAA Online Charter graduation requirements?

  Scholars can find our graduation requirements here: https://www.jaaonline.org/graduation-tuition-free

Scholar Life

• Understand Scholar Commitment

  Scholars in our Online program agree to:

  1. Enter the Academy with expectations of doing better than they have done in any school before and with the goal of improving as scholars.
  2. Maintain a level of academic performance and conduct that meets or surpasses JAA standards.
  3. Complete and submit all work as assigned by their mentors.
  4. Follow the Core Values of John Adams Academy.
  5. Observe all established rules and policies as contained in the Family/Scholar Handbook.

• Understand Parent / Family Commitment

  Families commit to support scholars in the Online program by being their primary mentor and providing an inspiring and distraction-free learning environment. Parents agree to:

  1. Serve as the scholar's primary mentor.
  2. Monitor scholar's progress.
  3. Help scholar to keep their commitments.

• Understand Academy Commitment

  Through our American Classical Leadership Education® the Academy seeks to instill into the minds and hearts of the scholar’s, knowledge of and respect for the ideals and values derived from our nation's founding documents. We will:

  1. Provide a thoughtful learning environment in an online setting.
  2. Provide scholars with challenging instructional curricula.
  3. Emphasize a set of standards for personal responsibility, self-discipline, and self-respect.
  4. Communicate with parents and scholars in a timely manner.

• Does the Online Charter School host field trips?

  Yes! Throughout the year, scholars will be invited to participate in various field trips. 

• How much time does my scholar spend each day doing online instruction and independent work?

  Families choosing LIVE courses will have on average 2-4 hours Mon-Thurs of LIVE classes/small groups depending on scholars grade level.  Families who choose FLEX courses will only have required LIVE times for certain assessments.

  Elementary (TK-6)

  • TK-Kinder - 2.5 hours a day of core instruction/practice, this time does not include independent/parent reading or structured and unstructured play which is a critical component of a child’s development. 
  • 1st-2nd Grade - 4 hours a day of core instruction/practice, this time does not include independent/parent reading or structured and unstructured play which is a critical component of a child’s development.  
  • 3rd-6th Grade - 5 hours a day of core instruction/practice, this time does not include independent reading or structured and unstructured play which is a critical component of a child’s development.  

  Secondary (7-12)

  • 7th-9th Grade - 6 hours a day of core instruction/practice, this time does not include independent reading or structured and unstructured opportunities to develop passions and talents outside of school which is a critical component of a child’s development.  
  • 10th-12th Grade - 7- 8 hours a day of core instruction/practice, depending on what courses a scholar is enrolled in. This time does not include independent reading or structured and unstructured opportunities to develop passions and talents outside of school which is a critical component of a child’s development. 

• Do scholars need to wear the John Adams Academy uniform?

  Yes. Scholars are expected to wear their uniform polo for all LIVE interaction including classes and video recordings. A full uniform will be required for participation in any on-campus enrichment, gatherings and field trips. 

  Dennis Uniforms

• Can scholars participate in after-school enrichment, sports and in-person event activities?

  Online scholars can sign up for enrichment activities offered specifically for online scholars. Scholars may participate in enrichment, athletic and social events that happen “after the bell” (end of school day) at the campus their scholar is associated with as long as they meet California Education Immunization requirements. 

  A scholar enrolled in JAA Online at one campus is not able to attend in-person afterschool enrichment activities at another campus.

  In-person school enrichment activities are optional; these activities are not part of JAA Online requirements. The Academy strives to make in-person activities available for scholars in order to enhance their academic experience. Scholars will not face any academic consequences for electing not to participate in these activities.

  In-person enrichment/athletic offerings vary by campus and grade, but may include: band, choir, drama, basketball, volleyball, soccer, cross country, tennis, and golf.  

  In-person social opportunities may include: Elementary and Middle School fundraising events, socials, movies, game nights, etc., High School dances, formals, fundraising events, etc. 

• What is the mandatory Back-to-School Kick-Off Event?

  The annual Back-to-School Kick-off event will be held in August at 1104 Investment Blvd., El Dorado Hills, and attendance is mandatory for all scholars. Scholars are required to wear the full JAA uniform, consisting of a polo, khaki pants or skirt, and plain black shoes in accordance with the JAA Uniform Dress Code. During the event, scholars will pick up technology and curriculum materials (a wagon or rolling suitcase is recommended), take school pictures, and undergo vision and hearing screenings. There will also be opportunities to sign up for athletics and enrichment programs, enjoy food trucks, and meet local teachers in person.

• How can I best support my scholar?

  To support your scholar, JAA Online Charter recommends parents establish a structured routine, create a dedicated learning space, and familiarize themselves with the online platform. Actively monitoring progress, maintaining regular communication with mentors, and ensuring their child has the necessary technology skills are essential. Additionally, providing emotional support and guidance throughout the learning process, while promptly addressing any challenges or questions, is crucial for a successful JAA Online experience.

• Does JAA Online Charter have wellness counselors and academic advisors?

  Yes, JAA Online Charter provides both wellness counselors and academic advisors. Our wellness counselors are available to support scholars' emotional and mental well-being, while our academic advisors work closely with scholars to guide their academic progress, assist with course planning, and help them achieve their educational goals. Together, these resources ensure a well-rounded, supportive experience for our scholars.

Accreditation

• Is your online program accredited in California?

  JAA Online is directly connected to each site. 

  Each site that has already received accreditation through the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), carries over to the online program. 

  John Adams Academy Roseville, El Dorado Hills and Lincoln are all accredited.

• Are your online high school classes A-G approved?

  Yes, all of our core high school courses are approved through the University of California. 

  To view the entire A-G course list please visit https://hs-articulation.ucop.edu/agcourselist.

• Are all JAA Online Charter educators credentialed?

  Yes. As required by California law, John Adams Academy hires credentialed teachers for all core and college preparatory subjects.