BELLS ISD

Who Can Enroll

Bells ISD Virtual is designed to serve high school students in grades 9–12 who meet the eligibility criteria established by Bells ISD and the State of Texas.

Important Dates

• Enrollment: Open year-round as capacity allows.

• Classes Start: August 2026 (Aligned with the Bells ISD academic calendar).

Eligibility Requirements

Students applying to Bells ISD Virtual must complete a formal application and meet the following requirements established by the State of Texas and the district.

1. Residency

• Must be a Texas resident at the time of application.

• Required Proof of Residency: (One of the following dated within the last 60 days)

  • Utility bill (gas, electric, or water)

  • Mortgage statement or a current lease agreement

2. State Eligibility for Full-Time Virtual Learning

To enroll in a full-time virtual schedule, a student must meet at least one of the following criteria:

• Enrolled in a Texas public school for at least six weeks in the current or previous school year.

• Was not required to attend a Texas public school in the previous year due to living out of state (e.g., a recent move to Texas).

• Was placed in substitute care in Texas.

• Is a dependent of a U.S. military member deployed outside of Texas.

3. Grade Level and Identification

• Must be eligible to enroll in grades 9–12.

• Must provide an official birth certificate to verify age and identity.

• A parent or guardian must provide a valid photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, or passport).

4. Academic Standards

• Demonstrates passing grades in core subjects at or above grade level.

• Demonstrates grade-level performance on state-standardized assessments (STAAR/EOC).

5. Attendance and Behavior

• Attendance: Must have maintained regular attendance with no more than 10 unexcused absences in the current school year.

• Behavior: No history of expulsions, DAEP or JJAEP placements, or persistent behavioral concerns in the previous school year.

• Technology Use: No prior discipline referrals related to the misuse of technology or district networks.

Two Paths. One Standard of Excellence.

At Bells ISD, students can design a learning experience that truly fits their goals. Hybrid learners balance online lessons with traditional campus courses, while fully online students complete their entire curriculum virtually. Both paths offer guided support and consistent, meaningful teacher interaction.

Real Teachers. Real Connection. Real Growth.

We believe education is about relationships. Every course is led by certified Bells ISD teachers who create engaging, interactive lessons. Our virtual students are held to the same high academic standards and expectations for excellence that define our physical classrooms.

Comprehensive Student Support

We are committed to seeing every student succeed. Support services include:

• Academic Advising: Personalized progress monitoring to keep students on track.

• Instructional Support: Access to tutoring and targeted academic intervention.

• Inclusive Learning: Full access to Special Education and 504 services.

• Future Readiness: College, career, and wellness counseling.

• Technical Assistance: Dedicated platform support to ensure a smooth learning experience.

Technology & Readiness

To succeed in a virtual environment, students need reliable internet access and a laptop or Chromebook. Bells ISD provides technical support and can offer device loans for qualifying families to ensure every student has the tools they need.

Mandatory orientation sessions are held before classes begin, helping both students and parents become experts in our online learning platforms.

Parent Partnership

We believe that families are our greatest partners in education. To keep you informed and involved, parents receive regular progress updates and direct communication from teachers and counselors. Through our parent portals, you can easily monitor:

• Current assignments and course progress

• Grades and academic feedback

• Attendance and participation records

Bells ISD Virtual Academy offers distinct pathways designed to help you find the perfect fit for your goals, schedule, and learning style. Every path we offer combines structure, adaptability, and meaningful teacher interaction—the core pillars of student success in a digital environment.

Fully Online Pathway

(Free for Eligible Texas Residents | Fee-based Options Available)

Open to students across the state of Texas, this program provides a comprehensive path to graduation through 100% online coursework. Unlike many virtual programs that use third-party contractors, our courses are taught by certified Bells ISD teachers.

This option is ideal for self-motivated learners who thrive on a flexible schedule while meeting clear academic deadlines. Students follow structured lessons with intentional pacing, regular teacher check-ins, and personalized guidance to ensure they stay on the path to graduation.

Key Benefits:

• Borderless Learning: Attend a high-performing district from anywhere in Texas.

• Built-in Accountability: Structured lessons and clear pacing keep students motivated and on track.

• Dedicated Support: Receive consistent communication and guidance from Bells ISD teachers and counselors.

• Community Connection: Engage with peers through virtual clubs and specialized district events.

2026-2027 Bells Virtual Academy Course Offerings

Core Courses

Electives and Additional Required Credits

CTE Pathway