SANDPOINT—INSPIRE, the Idaho Connections Academy, will host a free information session this evening for Sandpoint families who want to learn more about the virtual charter school.

"It's really a great option for students," said spokewoman Samantha Bryant.

The tuition-free school launched in 2005 and currently serves more than 900 Idaho children. The K-12 curriculum covers all required core subjects including language arts, mathematics, science and social studies. Electives include courses in world languages, music, game design, digital arts, sing language and more.

INSPIRE is a fully accredited online public school, so Bryant it works in much the same manner with curriculum and testing requirements. She said one thing people like is the flexibility of the program. Students have the option of working ahead, and those who are behind can work at their own pace and get one-on-one help with a subject they may be having trouble in. Athletes have also found the program accomodating because of that flexibility, she said.

The structured courses, mixed with the flexibility of an online school, are designed to help students develop skills in the "four Cs" of learning: Critical thinking and problem solving, communication, creativity and innovation, and collaboration.

The free information session scheduled for 6:30 p.m. at the Best Western Plus Edgewater Resort, located at 56 Bridge St. in Sandpoint.