Tech Requirements

Our courses use Zoom and Google Classroom as the primary platforms for connecting students.
For the optimal experience in our courses, we require that students have access to the following:

• a Laptop/PC with webcam and microphone
• a High speed, stable internet connection
• a Google/Gmail account

For our Digital Storytelling courses, we require that students also have access to an iPad or phone with a camera/recording device in addition to the supporting technology noted above.

For certain classes, the instructor may request that students download particular digital applications and tools to participate in the course work.  Instructions specifying which digital applications and tools will need to be downloaded, along with instructions for doing so, will be sent out in the instructor's welcome letter prior to the start of the Session.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the appropriate grade level course for my student?

For Fall, Winter, and Spring Sessions, please enroll your student in their current grade level for the academic year of 2024-2025. If you believe your student is more advanced and would like to enroll in a higher grade class, please e-mail us and we will consult with the instructor.

Q: ​My student has problems with writing.  Will these courses be too advanced?

Our Virtual Programs for Youth are designed to put students at ease and improve students' skills. Teachers make allowances for the different ability levels in their classroom and structure lessons accordingly.  In addition, our courses are structured so that small group instruction will be available to your student, should he or she need individualized instruction or targeted support.

Q: My student is in GATE.  Are there accelerated classes available?

Our classes provide academic enrichment and are designed to expand students' critical thinking skills, as well as give them numerous opportunities for hands-on learning.  In particular, small class sizes allow our team of experienced educators to tailor instruction according to your students' needs.  We have found that GATE students can benefit by not only learning new strategies for writing and problem solving, but also by learning to explain their solutions in both written and oral form.  Studies have shown that accelerated students often have as much difficulty with their critical thinking skills as do their peers and that relating to one's peers is an important part of the educational experience.

Q: DO THE SKILLS AND STRATEGIES OF THE VIRTUAL PROGRAM TRANSFER TO MY STUDENT'S CURRENT SCHOOL COURSE WORK?

Yes, students will learn specific strategies that are aligned with Common Core State Standards that will enhance their school literacy program. 

Q: WILL THERE BE HOMEWORK?

Minimal homework may be given at the instructor's discretion.  However, our courses are structured so that students will have adequate time during the day to practice and apply skills learned.

Q: IS ATTENDANCE MANDATORY?

To gain the most from our courses, we highly recommend that students attend each day.  However, planned absences are entirely at the parent's discretion.  We encourage you to reach out to your child's instructor if you know he/she will need to miss a class.  Please note that we do not pro-rate our program.

Q: CAN YOU ACCOMMODATE STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS?

​We strive to create a class climate that is welcoming to all students. In doing so we know that there are some requirements for being successful with the program. Contact us at [email protected] if you have a specific concern.

Q: WHAT IS YOUR STUDENT TO TEACHER RATIO?

We have a maximum class size of 12 students per teacher for Virtual Programs for Youth.

Q: WHAT ARE THE QUALIFICATIONS OF YOUR INSTRUCTORS?

All of our instructors are credentialed and highly qualified experts in their field.  The majority are UCI Writing Project Fellows who have completed extensive training through participation in our 100-hour intensive professional development program.

Q: DO YOU BACKGROUND CHECK YOUR STAFF?

Yes, all of our teachers have gone through reference and background checks, and they are all employed by the University of California, Irvine.

Q: CAN MULTIPLE STUDENTS SHARE A REGISTRATION/ACCOUNT?

No, we require that each student have his or her own account and be uniquely registered in classes.  Each class is specific for the student that is enrolled. Our goal is to provide a program that will help students improve their abilities in a small group environment.

Q: WHAT IF WE HAVE TECH ISSUES?

Our instructors are trained to help trouble shoot any tech issues that may arise during the course. Students will also have access to the Google Classroom stream where they can communicate with the instructor directly if any complications may arise. We suggest that prior to the start of class parents check their internet connection for stability and digital devices for any needed updates. If you have further complications, please e-mail us at [email protected].

Q: WHAT IS YOUR REFUND POLICY?

If you need to cancel your student's registration in our program, please contact us at [email protected] no later than a week before the start of each class. We are happy to issue a full refund minus a $65 processing fee if we receive the refund request by the deadline stated above.  No exceptions will be made once the program is in session.

Student Code of Conduct

​The UCI Writing Project has a strong commitment to providing a quality education for its students. In a distance learning environment, staff work in partnership with students and parents to ensure an effective and safe use of the Internet and all assigned technology. Apps, platforms, and technology tools are used within the program to facilitate student learning and to support the VPFY's goal of creating engaging and enriching experiences for all students in areas of Reading and Writing.

Please read the following Student Internet Technology Use Agreement.
Upon registering, we will require parents to sign on behalf of students in order to complete the registration into our program.