A new virtual school, Trailhead Virtual Academy, is offering a flexible, remote-learning option for K-12 students across Idaho. Head of School Michele Hutchison believes remote learning can benefit students who may not thrive in a traditional school environment or who participate in activities that require a more flexible schedule.

“It provides them more flexibility,” Hutchison said. “For a well-run virtual school, kids can get the same, or even better quality learning.”

Trailhead Virtual Academy is a tuition-free public charter school with learning platforms provided by private company ACCEL Schools. Trailhead was approved by the Idaho Public Charter School Commission in December after an initial rejection in 2024, according to Idaho EdNews. Enrollment began in April, and Hutchison joined Trailhead in June, bringing 25 years of education experience.

With four teachers so far, Hutchison said Trailhead will provide personalized support for students. A typical school day will include live remote sessions for each subject, along with daily asynchronous work.

“The instruction is definitely tailored to each individual student,” Hutchison said.

Hutchison said Trailhead’s curriculum stands out for its focus on career and technical education, or CTE, which allows students to begin exploring career options early. At the elementary level, the program will introduce students to different career options. At the middle school level, students will receive an overview of three major career pathways: agriculture, information technology and health sciences.

“Those are three most highly recognized career pathways in Idaho,” Hutchison said. “I think the CTE focus is a big draw.”

In the future, Trailhead plans to add high school classes that will allow students to choose a career pathway to focus on. Hutchison said the school will offer tailored career-focused courses at the high school level, opportunities to build digital portfolios, and opportunities to hear from industry professionals.

“Being a virtual CTE school gives rural students in Idaho that opportunity,” Hutchison said.

With nine students enrolled at the end of August, Trailhead is starting small. Still, Hutchison said interest has increased, and more applications are coming in. She hopes enrollment will keep growing as the school continues to accept students throughout the year.

For more information, visit trailheadvirtual.com.

    Trailhead Virtual Academy logo.