History of Chester Online Learning
2005- The concept of a “School Without Walls” was established with the start of Chester Cyber School. Chester Cyber School allowed students from Hutterite colonies (who previously ended formal education at the 8th grade) the opportunity to receive a high school education. The first year there were 75 full time students from 8 Hutterite colonies.
2009- The program moved to its current location and united with High Plains Alternative School to offer on-site education to students who would succeed in a more individualized setting.
2010- The expansion was made to become a provider through the South Dakota Virtual School allowing students from any district in the state to take classes from the highly qualified Chester Online Learning teachers.
Today: Chester Online Learning encompasses all 3 programs of Cyber School, High Plains Alternative School and the Virtual School. Chester Online Learning has graduated 145 students through Cyber School, 30 students through High Plains Alternative and has worked with over 35 districts across the state through the Virtual School.