Amarillo ISD Launches Virtual School Program for Middle and High School Students

Amarillo ISD has opened enrollment for its new virtual school option serving grades 6 through 12 starting this fall, with full expansion to every grade level scheduled for the 2027-2028 school year.

The move comes as the district continues to recover from learning losses tied to the pandemic, when 2021 STAAR results showed drops in math and reading after earlier gains. District leaders say the program aims to give families flexibility while keeping instruction aligned with what students receive in Amarillo's brick-and-mortar buildings.

Local rollout and safeguards

Amarillo ISD Online will use teachers who focus only on virtual classes rather than splitting duties between in-person and remote students. Courses follow the same curriculum used across the district, and student test scores will count toward the accountability rating of each student's assigned campus, such as Tascosa High School or Bowie Middle School. Officials note that startup expenses stayed low because existing staff and systems were already in place, supplemented by a $200,000 grant that covers the first two years.

Assistant Superintendent Jennifer Wilkerson told ABC 7 Amarillo that meeting student needs and maintaining high achievement levels remain the top priorities. The district has stressed that virtual learners face the same standards as those attending classes in person.

Practical steps for families

Parents in Amarillo can sign up now for the fall semester through the district's online portal. The program will grow gradually, adding elementary grades in stages over the next two years. Families interested in details on devices, schedules or campus assignments can contact their child's current school or visit the AISD website for the latest enrollment guidance.

Reporting draws from the April 2026 ABC 7 Amarillo interview with district leaders posted on the station's YouTube channel.