VLAC Family News
August 14, 2025
Upcoming Dates
August 19: Introduction to Lincoln Learning Virtual Session 6PM (link at www.vlac.org under current families)
August 20: Introduction to Imagine Learning Virtual Session 6PM (link at www.vlac.org under current families)
August 25: VLAC Teaching Staff Return
August 25: K-8 curriculum begins shipping for K-8 Lincoln students
September 2: First Day of School & Required Live Lessons
All dates for the school year are updated on our website under "Current Families"
Getting Started with VLAC
We are so excited to welcome you to the 2025–2026 school year at VLAC! Here’s a quick look at what you can expect in the coming weeks as we get ready to begin learning together.
Welcome Packets and Planners
Welcome packets and student planners will begin shipping the second week of August and should arrive the week of August 18. Inside, you’ll find important details about VLAC, including answers to common questions (see pages 16–17).You can also view our Welcome Packet digitally by clicking the link below: Welcome Packet
Please note: If you received the paper version of the welcome packet in the mail, there is an error on page 2. VLAC's spring break is scheduled for March 30 – April 3.
Technology
Chromebooks will begin shipping the week of August 11 for students enrolled by August 1. After that, devices will be shipped on Mondays and Thursdays—approximately three school days after enrollment is complete. Families will receive an email (sent to the address used during enrollment) from our technology department with FedEx tracking information. A signature will be required upon delivery of the technology package.
• K–5 students will also receive a printer and supplies.
• Students in grades 6–12 can request a printer by emailing info@vlac.org.
• Any student who needs internet access can request a hotspot by emailing info@vlac.org.
What to Expect When You Receive Your Chromebook
After enrollment is complete, new families will receive a technology package via FedEx. Keep an eye on your inbox (the email used during enrollment) for a message with tracking information.
Inside the package, you’ll find a welcome packet from the Service Desk, which includes your student's username and password on the first page, along with guidance on where to go for support.
You can view the Technology Welcome Packet here.
Need help setting up your device and getting started? In-person appointments are available. Visit the Current Families page on our website or email info@vlac.org to request the sign-up link. You can also call our Service Desk with any questions at 248.209.2060.
Curriculum Materials
For students fully enrolled by August 1, curriculum materials will begin shipping the week of August 25.
• K–5 students will receive curriculum kits and printed materials.
• 6–8 students will receive kits for courses that offer them (such as Science).
• 9–12 students will receive kits for certain courses as needed.
Note: Some programs, such as Imagine, are fully digital.
To view the complete list of curriculum materials for grades K–12 Lincoln, please click the link below:
Curriculum Materials List
Logging In
Students can log in through Clever at https://clever.com/in/VLAC using the credentials in Parent Portal. New students will also find login information in their tech package. Teachers or office staff can provide login details by phone after verifying your identity. Full login instructions can be found here: How to Log In to Clever
Choosing Classes
• Students in grades 6–12 will be contacted by a VLAC counselor to schedule classes.
• Students in grades K–5 will begin the year with four core subjects: English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. You’ll select two “special” or elective classes during the first weeks of school.
Teacher Welcome Information
During the week of August 25, your VLAC teacher will email and text you a welcome letter and video. Using the information in the letter, you’ll join their Google Classroom to get started.
The First Day of School – September 2
On the first day, all students will join a required live lesson to meet staff and get important information for a successful start. Times are:
• Elementary (K–5): 10:00 AM
• Middle School (6–8): 11:00 AM
• High School (9–12): 1:00 PM
The link to join is located in your students Google Classroom on the "stream" tab.
We’re looking forward to an amazing year of learning, connection, and growth. Your materials, technology, and teacher welcome will be arriving soon—we’ll see you online in September!
Mark Your Calendars – Required Beginning-of-Year Lessons
We are excited to welcome all of our students to the start of the school year. Please mark your calendars for our very important required live lessons during the first weeks of school. These sessions are designed and led by VLAC staff and will provide essential skills and information to set you up for success this year.
Who attends: All new and returning VLAC students
When:
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September 4–6, 8, 15, and 22
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Times by grade level:
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10:00 AM – Elementary (Grades K–5)
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11:00 AM – Middle School (Grades 6–8)
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1:00 PM – High School (Grades 9–12)
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These lessons are an important part of starting the school year strong, if you cannot make it you will arrange a make up time with your mentor teacher.
Join VLAC Remind
VLAC uses Remind.com to send text messages regarding important updates and The VLAC Family News. Please sign up for Remind using the directions below:
2025-2026 School Year Information
For more information about next school year, please see our VLAC Information Power Point. You can also watch a video of the presentation on our Youtube Channel .
New to VLAC? Join Us for Optional In-Person Onboarding!
We’re excited to welcome new families to VLAC! To help you get started, we’re offering optional one-on-one in-person onboarding sessions for those who would like extra help getting started. These sessions provide hands-on support with logging in, navigating our learning platforms, and answering any questions you may have.
To sign up, simply email info@vlac.org and request the link to schedule your session. Be sure to include the parent/guardian name and student name in the body of the email.
Sessions are held at Oakland Schools Main Campus in Waterford, MI (2111 Pontiac Lake Rd).
Please note: All students will participate in a virtual onboarding session with their mentor teacher as part of the regular onboarding process. The in-person session is completely optional and is offered as additional support for families who would like extra one-on-one guidance.
Student Support Connection
Welcome back to VLAC for the 2025–2026 school year! To our returning families, we’re so glad to continue working with you, and to our new families, welcome- we’re excited to have you join our community. My name is Kristi McAllister, and I’m the Special Populations Consultant here at VLAC. Whether you're familiar with our program or just beginning your journey with us, we’re looking forward to a year filled with learning, growth, and connection. If you have any questions regarding your 504 Plan or IEP accommodations, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me - kristi.mcallister@oakland.k12.mi.us or 248.410.2202 - I’m here to ensure you have the tools and support you need for a successful school year. I look forward to partnering with you to help make this year a positive and rewarding experience.
Counseling Corner
6th - 12th Grade Scheduling Update
As we are preparing for the start of the school year, our VLAC counselors, Mrs. Connell and Mrs. Wasilk, are reaching out to students and parents to discuss course options. If you are concerned about your classes, please feel free to reach out to them via email, Christine.Connell@oakland.k12.mi.us and Kimberly.Wasilk@oakland.k12.mi.us.
We have included the list of districts that each counselor works with.
VLAC classes will open up to students on September 2nd.
Contact the VLAC Team
Andrea Becker VLAC Teacher Coordinator 248-941-2224
Kimberly Mason: VLAC Project Assistant 248-209-2025
Mary Kotcher: VLAC Office Assistant 248-209-2071
Kristi McAllister: VLAC Special Populations Consultant 248-410-2202
Christine Connell: VLAC Counselor 248-980-0831
Kim Wasilk: VLAC Counselor 248-980-0752
Technology Support: 248-209-2060
Email: info@vlac.org
Website: https://virtuallearningacademyconsortium.org
Location: 2111 Pontiac Lake Road, Waterford Township, MI, USA
Phone: 248-209-2071
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VLAConsortium/
Twitter: @VLAConsortium