FAQ

What is Trojan Academy?

• The Virtual Academy offers both a full cyber education or a blend of the traditional classroom with the flexibility of online self-study for students.
• Supportive Environment - 
  • Flexible Courses 
  • Daily access to a Derry Township Educator who will support immediate tech, tutoring, and coursework needs.
  • tech support, Derry Township partners with IU15’s Capital Area Online Learning Academy to offer asynchronous  courses through Edison Learning and Accelerate Ed.  Additionally, students who are enrolled in Trojan Academy may choose to fill in courses offered through Hershey High School or Hershey Middle School (in alignment with student grade level).  This flexible solution helps to promote education that is flexible, personalized, and connected

Why did DTSD create the Trojan Academy?

• Provide a quality and comprehensive curriculum for district families interested in another educational option.
• Provide an alternative to out-of-district, cyber education 

Is the Trojan Academy right for me? 

Students in the Trojan Academy are expected to maintain progress on assignments and regular logins to the online learning platform.  Learning is asynchronous, both progress and logins, can be done remotely and at a time of day that is convenient for your family.    All students who participate in the Trojan Academy are able to access the same resources as a student at Hershey HIgh School and more.   This includes access to Library, Counseling, Co-curricular and extracurricular activities, Special Education services, and Health Services.

• Athletes - Athletes who may need flexible meeting times and travel are able to access all learning remotely any time of day.
• Honor Students - Students who are seeking our academic courses and learning with our highest level of rigor are able to access Advanced Placement Courses, Dual Enrollment, Co-curricular leadership activities at Hershey High School, and opportunities for special activities through Trojan Academy such as a dedicated Learning Lab where students can work on collaborative projects, STEM activities, field trips, and other unique opportunities.
• Medical Needs - Students who are experiencing physical or mental health challenges are welcome to participate in virtual learning through Trojan Academy.  Students are provided technology and tutoring services through Edison, our virtual learning provider.  If and when students are ready to return to Hershey HIgh School, the Trojan Academy advisors will work with your family to develop a plan that works for you!

Why might students want to attend cyber school?

• They need greater flexibility in their scheduling.
• They have health concerns.
• To pursue arts or sports endeavors.
• Parents want more involvement in the child’s education.
• And many other reasons!

What is provided to participants in the Trojan Academy?

• Use of an iPad.
• Complete, PA standards-aligned curriculum package including text books and any other materials.
• Local technology support.
• Individualized and personalized instructional support/contact by local, highly-qualified, teachers through a partnership with the Capital Intermediate Unit curriculum providers. 
• Access to the Trojan Academy Learning Lab located at DTSD District Office, 30 E. Granada Ave, Hershey, PA 17033
• Access to field trips.

What are the family’s responsibilities?

• Contact instructor with any issues related to content.
• Schedule face-to-face sessions with instructor as needed/required.
• Read and sign all necessary paperwork for use of materials, text books, etc.
• Designate a primary contact for communication.
• Abide by all school and district policies.

What is the attendance policy?

Attendance will be based on one hour (online or offline) per course per day during scheduled school calendar days. If all assigned coursework is completed with a passing grade for the course, the student will not be marked absent. If a student is behind on their coursework, and does not meet the minimum daily login requirement, he or she may be marked absent.

Can any student enroll in Trojan Academy?

Any student can enroll in Trojan Academy if they reside within Derry Township School District's boundaries.

What if my child needs special education services?

Special Education students who have some of their needs met through specially designed instruction must discuss virtual learning at an IEP meeting where the team will determine support needed for the student to be successful in an online learning environment.

Will my child be able to participate in extracurricular activities as well as specials activities at school? 

• Yes, your child will have the same opportunity to participate in extracurriculars and specials same as a traditional Derry Township Student student.  This includes Mini-Thon, athletics, assemblies and curricular programs such as the Winter Concert. 
• These opportunities will be available on the Trojan Academy website calendar.  Information will be sent weekly the the Trojan Academy Canvas Course
• Derry Township will also offer an in-person Study Center located at District Office, 30 E. Granada.  This work space will have resources and activities scheduled several times per month and can be utilized as a quiet study center during designated study hours. 

Must my child participate in state assessments?

Yes, all students must participate in state assessments.

Who can enroll in Trojan Academy at Derry Township School District?

Any child who is a resident of Derry Township can enroll in Trojan Academy.  Students who are currently enrolled in Hershey Elementary, Hershey Middle School and Hershey High School should contact the building level counselor. Students who are currently enrolled in a private school should contact the District Office Registrar.

When is Trojan Academy at Derry Township School District appropriate for my child?

• Trojan Academy at Derry township School District is appropriate for students who are interested in long term online learning options.  Students are able to enroll in Trojan Academy during the one week before and after the marking period (marking period begin and end dates are available on the district website Calendar Page and are subject to change.)
• Students who are planning to be absent from school for less than one marking period should not enroll in Trojan Academy.  The curriculum in Trojan Academy does not necessarily match the sequence of the curriculum delivered in classes. 

What curriculum is available for students who are enrolled in Trojan Academy?

• Secondary students are enrolled in the Genius Learning Management System through the Capital Area Intermediate Unit.  This system provides students with access to courses from Edison Learning and Accelerate Ed.
• More information is available at the Capital Area Online Learning Academy website.

Who delivers Trojan Academy lessons?

Trojan Academy curriculum is designed by our vendors and delivered by highly qualified teachers who are certified in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to deliver instruction.

Are students able to enroll in Trojan Academy on a part-time basis?

Students who wish to enroll in Trojan Academy on a part-time basis may do so online in extenuating circumstances.  We do not recommend this option; but rather, encourage students to seek opportunities such as Blended Learning, Community Service, Passion Driven Research and/or Internship as tools for flexible scheduling.

How can I contact Hershey Counselors?

Please click on the link that is appropriate for your student

• Hershey High School
• Hershey Middle School
• Hershey Elementary School & ECC