Tuscaloosa City Schools will introduce a new system-sponsored virtual learning option for high school students beginning in the 2026–27 school year.
The TCS Virtual Program will allow students in grades nine through 12 who are zoned for Tuscaloosa City Schools to complete coursework online while remaining connected to their assigned high schools. The district plans to serve between 125 and 250 students who live within Tuscaloosa city limits.
Students must be zoned for a TCS high school to be eligible, though they are not required to be currently enrolled in the district. Accepted students will remain enrolled at their zoned school while participating in the virtual program.
“This initiative reflects our commitment to providing families with flexibility and high-quality learning options,” Superintendent Mike Daria said. “The TCS Virtual Program allows students to benefit from online instruction while remaining connected to the extracurricular activities, supports and school community of their home high school.”
The program will combine self-paced coursework with live instruction, providing students with real-time support from certified TCS teachers while allowing flexibility in scheduling. Participants will continue to have access to career-technical education through the Tuscaloosa Career and Technology Academy and will remain eligible for dual enrollment opportunities.
Students enrolled in the virtual program may also participate in extracurricular activities, including athletics and other co-curricular programs, at their zoned high schools and will graduate from their home schools alongside in-person students.
Applications for the TCS Virtual Program will open Jan. 5 and close Jan. 30 at 3 p.m. The program is scheduled to begin in August 2026, with a minimum of 125 students required for a successful launch.
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