Academics
The Flex Program
At ISAZ, we know every student learns differently, and families have busy, unique schedules. That’s why we offer Flex, an online learning program available to students who meet school eligibility criteria and are ready for a more independent learning model. Unlike the standard ISAZ program, which has daily live classes, Flex is for students looking to optimize their learning time and schedule, whether that means restructuring your student’s day or planning around appointments, arts programs, or sports practices.
What is the Flex program?
Families in the Flex program maintain a daily schedule and pace to keep the program’s structure and curriculum in place. Students can access coursework and class recordings anytime, and they’ll connect with a certified teacher throughout their learning journey to stay on track.
It’s important to remember that flexibility doesn’t mean anything goes. Students in this program are still expected to attend all required sessions, including any related to state compliance, testing, special services, or interventions. The flexibility is tied to when and how your student engages with their assigned learning, not to meeting their core academic responsibilities.
Why Families Choose Flex
There are many reasons to choose Flex to fit your family’s needs. Here are some of the main benefits students enjoy:
Optimize Your Learning Time
Flex lets your child complete schoolwork when it works best for your family’s routine. Morning person or night owl? Flex makes it easy to optimize your student’s learning time, while still having structured accountability and required support throughout the week and year.
Stay on Track With Support
Students in the Flex program aren’t required to attend live class sessions, except for specific academic support related to special education, English Language Learner (ELL) services, dyslexia support, or other school-required sessions. They can also attend live virtual classes as needed and transition back to a more traditional online school model at any time.
High-Quality Education, With a Side of Flexibility
Flex students use the same rigorous curriculum as traditional ISAZ students. They attend homeroom regularly, participate in assessments, and receive all required special services based on their learning needs. They also have access to a variety of other school programs. Flex ensures that learning and growth continue while giving families the freedom to manage their own routines.
Who thrives in Flex?
Flex is ideal for eligible students who are:
Motivated and independent learners
Able to participate in routine online coursework
Ready to set daily schedules and practice consistent time management
Consistently supported by a Learning Coach at home
Students with IEPs, English Learner plans, or other required services will still have mandatory sessions that are part of their individual plans.
Flex Student Requirements
The Flex program is available for students who demonstrate proficiency in Math and ELA on state or benchmark assessments. Families of students who are partially proficient may request a review with school administration. To apply, complete the Flex Interest Form and our team will follow up with program details.
Note: Flex enrollment is conditional. Students must maintain passing grades and academic expectations to remain in the program. Questions? Please contact FaithHoney Twaddell at ftwaddell@k12.com
Flex Learning Coach Expectations
Learning Coaches play a key role in student success by:
- Establishing routines and monitoring learning time
- Supporting academic growth and encouraging problem-solving
- Teaching students to ask for help effectively from teachers
- Celebrating progress while allowing students to learn from productive struggle
Flex & Graduation
Flex students earn the same ISAZ diploma as other students; transcripts do not indicate Flex participation.
Graduation requirements are identical for all students, as set by the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Flex different from the standard program?
Flex students organize their own schedules with their Learning Coaches. Unlike standard ISAZ, Flex doesn’t require daily direct instruction in live online classes — students attend limited live sessions, typically including homeroom and any required additional sessions for support or state compliance. Flex students do, however, have access to all recorded class connect sessions, so they can watch them as needed or when it fits their learning schedule. Flex students also participate in select mandatory sessions and set academic and personal growth goals.
Is the curriculum the same as standard ISAZ?
Yes! Flex students use the same online platform, curriculum, and grade-level courses as standard ISAZ students. They also have access to social-emotional learning and may participate in all clubs and social opportunities offered at ISAZ and K12.
Can students mix Flex and standard ISAZ?
No, students must choose one program. Families should consider how important live online class sessions and recordings are to their child’s learning. Families should also consider their student’s independence and ability to stay consistently on track without live, in-class support.
Do siblings need to enroll in the same program?
No. Families often have one child in Flex and another in the standard program, depending on individual learning needs.
What if Flex isn’t the right fit?
Students can transition back to a traditional, structured class schedule if Flex isn’t working for them. The family can request the change, or the school can initiate it.
Students who don’t meet the requirements for staying in Flex may also be transitioned back to standard learning.