Mountain Vista Governor’s School

Handbook for

Students and Parents/Guardians

 2024-2025

Welcome to Mountain Vista Governor’s School.

Please visit the MVGS website (www.mvgshome.org) for contact information and updates on news and information. Weekly email announcements will be sent to parents and students with active email addresses on file with the MVGS main office. Additional questions can be directed to the MVGS Director, the MVGS Office Manager on the Warrenton campus, the MVGS Office Associate on the Middletown campu, the MVGS Program Counselor, MVGS faculty members, your school division’s Gifted and Talented Education Administrator, or your base school counseling team.

Please note that at the end of this handbook is the MVGS Acknowledgements and Signatures form, which is required for all students and parents/guardians to complete prior to the first day of school at MVGS (August 5, 2024).

1. MVGS BASICS

• MVGS, established in 2006, is a regional program for academically talented and highly motivated 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students serving Clarke County, Culpeper County, Fauquier County, Frederick County, Rappahannock County, Warren County, and Winchester City.  
• The program offers courses in science, mathematics, humanities, and research that are uniquely integrated to provide a college-level, project-based learning environment.
• Our half-day program is offered at two Laurel Ridge Community College campus sites: Middletown and Warrenton.
• The MVGS instructional day is 4.5 hours: 3.5 hours at a Laurel Ridge campus site and 1 hour of web-based instruction.
• Students are provided the opportunity to earn college credit through a dual enrollment program on a college campus, as well as the option to take appropriate Advanced Placement examinations through their base high schools.
  
• Students wishing to enroll at MVGS must submit an application in late winter and be accepted by the local school division selection committee according to the yearly timeline. Each school division has established the number of participation slots for its students.

2. MVGS CURRICULUM

1. Mission Statement

The mission of MVGS is to engage students in a technology-enhanced program, exploring connections within an integrated curriculum of advanced mathematics, science, and the humanities through collaborative research. MVGS challenges students to grow as critical thinkers, leaders, and innovators to maximize their future roles in a constantly changing global society.  

2. Curriculum Overview
   The interdisciplinary curriculum design of Mountain Vista Governor’s School challenges students to construct a highly integrated understanding of mathematics and designated sciences.  The development of technology and research skills supports students in solving authentic problems in a scholarly and professional manner.  The humanities component requires students to analyze the relationship between the arts and sciences and to construct a personal philosophical basis for ethical leadership in applying scientific knowledge to challenging real-world issues.

3. Goals
   The learning environment of Mountain Vista Governor’s School is designed to provide students rigorous educational experiences to reach their fullest potential by:

1. Cultivating a collaborative, supportive regional community of academically talented and highly motivated learners that celebrates intellectual diversity.
2. Providing investigative learning experiences that integrate disciplines.
3. Engaging students in research and extended learning through a discovery approach patterned after activities of scholars and professionals.
4. Developing producers of knowledge as well as consumers of knowledge.
5. Preparing self-reliant, critical thinkers who excel at advanced levels of education and apply knowledge to real world challenges.
6. Creating opportunities for service and leadership in both school and community.
7. Establishing community partnerships to enhance learning opportunities.

4. Vision
   MVGS brings together a diverse community of exceptional learners in a safe, supportive, and challenging environment to:

• engage in hands-on learning, scholarly investigation, and authentic problem-solving.
• attain fluency in mathematics, science, and communication.
• explore the human condition.
• connect with a close-knit cohort of peers.
• collaborate with community members.
• develop personal integrity, citizenship, and public service.
• utilize current technology and data analysis.
• exercise critical thinking and foster innovation.
• participate in local and global dialogue.
• create and communicate useful solutions to real world challenges.

5. Interdisciplinary Connectivity
   The faculty of Mountain Vista Governor’s School will collaborate to integrate knowledge and skills from all disciplines in the following ways:
   

1. Scientific and mathematical knowledge will be examined in historical and cultural contexts.
2. The mathematics courses and the science courses will be taught collaboratively.
3. Environmental science will be a formal or informal component of the physics and biology courses.
4. Students will be challenged to see how the process of science and the knowledge gained through science impacts the cultures and politics of the world.
5. Students will analyze and critique scientific thought against the background of western and non-western philosophy, literature, and the arts.
6. Students will utilize their technical writing skills while conducting scientific investigations and presenting their findings.
7. Students will be challenged through research to see that all knowledge crosses multiple disciplines.

6. Technology Integration
   The faculty of Mountain Vista Governor’s School will integrate technology into all courses in the following ways:
   

1. Students will carry out investigations using computer-aided, data-collecting probes and sensors.
2. Students will use graphing software to manipulate and analyze data collected during laboratory investigations.
3. Students will utilize Internet resources to gather background information throughout the courses.
4. Students will engage in distance learning via multi-site video conferencing and/or on-line instruction.
5. Students will use technology to develop and deliver presentations of their research findings in a publishable format.
6. Students will utilize web-based and technology enhanced textbooks when possible.
7. Faculty will use technology in instructional presentations.
8. Faculty will utilize web-communication systems for off-site instruction, and students will utilize it to prepare and submit assignments (e.g., weather-related or other scheduling issues negatively impacting on-site instruction).

7. An Alternative Learning Program Option
   The Mountain Vista Governor’s School provides an alternate learning opportunity that is differentiated from the regular high school program by:
   

1. Providing a college-level program designed to meet the unique needs of academically talented and highly motivated learners.
2. Creating a regional community of learners.
3. Providing a uniquely designed integrated science, mathematics, humanities, and research curriculum.
4. Providing extensive research and real-world application opportunities.
5. Using technology-enhanced instruction for delivery of instruction, data collection/analysis/processing, and effective communication of information/solutions.
6. Focusing on community-based instruction through the themes of engineering, medicine, environment, agribusiness, and animal sciences.
7. Providing a specially designed program (versus a menu of courses) that enables college-bound students to:

1. be challenged with college-level content;
2. experience college-level research expectations, language, and procedures;
3. develop learner-centered skills needed by a self-reliant, life-long learner;
4. earn college credits in math, science, humanities, and research;
5. develop three-years of lived, learning experiences for the college application process;
6. relate core knowledge to real-world application skills;
7. interact with experts in the career area of their choice.

8. Developing leadership potential by exploring and applying intellectual ideas through research and public action.
9. Providing a half-day program that enables students to continue to be involved in the academic, social, and extracurricular opportunities of their base schools.  

3. MVGS 2024-2025 THREE YEAR PROGRAM OF STUDY, COURSE OFFERINGS, AND COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

Rising 10th graders will attend MVGS for three years and will choose the science strand option during the 10th grade year.  

Several courses may be available to be dual enrolled for college credit through Laurel Ridge.  See the course descriptions below.

Prerequisites:  Geometry and Algebra II                                        Co-requisites: General Biology

MVGS offers two science focus options for second- and third-year students—typically 11th and 12th graders: Option 1 - Physics/Engineering or Option 2 -  Life Sciences.

Option I: Physics/Engineering Focus

Prerequisites:  Precalculus

Option II: Life Sciences Focus

Prerequisites: Precalculus, General HS Biology                 

Note: MVGS Economics will fulfill the VDOE graduation requirement for Economics and Personal Finance when offered on alternating years (2025-2026) from psychology.

MVGS Academic Advisory Board recommendation is that courses earn weighted high school credit          based on local division weighting policy/procedures, given the collegiate level/focus of  MVGS courses.  Be advised that students sign up for Advanced Placement (AP) testing through their base school counseling/testing departments, not through MVGS, if desiring that option.  MVGS, as its hallmark, is a collegiate program.

*Please see course descriptions below to ensure the course provides AP examination compatibility/preparation.*

4. ENROLLING A STUDENT IN MVGS

MVGS courses are offered from Monday-Friday, 7:30 AM to 10:50 AM.  

A student should be enrolled in courses according to base high school policy during PM blocks/periods. Students will need to be enrolled in courses required for graduation, as well as other elective choices at the base school.

The MVGS curriculum is designed to be congruent with the Virginia’s Early College Scholar’s Program.  An MVGS senior may register and maintain acceptable status as a Virginia Early College Scholar.  For more information, please visit the VDOE Early College Scholars Program webpage:https://www.doe.virginia.gov/parents-students/for-students/graduation/policy-initiatives/early-college-scholars-program.

5. ENROLLING A STUDENT FOR DUAL ENROLLMENT CREDIT

Dual enrollment for high school and college credit through Laurel Ridge Community College will be an option for students enrolled in any MVGS course that has a Laurel Ridge approved dual enrollment teacher.  Tuition for MVGS dual enrolled courses (including students from Culpeper County Public Schools) is paid directly to MVGS, unless otherwise directed by the Laurel Ridge Dual Enrollment Specialist.

Students who have not previously dual enrolled at Laurel Ridge Community College:

1. Apply to the College. Go to https://laurelridge.edu/  and click on “APPLY NOW” and follow the steps accordingly.  When the application process is complete, you should have a Student ID number and Username. Keep these where you can find it. (Hint: Your Phone).
2. All dual enrollment students must meet Admissions Criteria and any course prerequisites. These requirements can be met in the following ways:

1. Your high school transcript. A GPA of 3.0 is required to register for all transfer courses. Students may see their career coach at their high school or registrar to obtain a copy of their transcript. It does not need to be official.
2. SAT Scores: Evidence-Based Reading & Writing (480) and Mathematics (550). Attach scores to registration form the first time.
3. ACT Scores: English/Writing (18); Reading (18); Mathematics (22). Attach scores to registration form the first time.
4. Virginia Placement Test. See the career coach at your base high school if you need to take placement testing. Attach scores to the registration form the first time.

Continuing students who have previously dual enrolled at Laurel Ridge:

1. Print a copy of your unofficial college transcript. Log into the Student Information System:

1. Go to Select MyLaurelRidge. Enter your username and password. Select Self-Serve. Select Academic Records and click on View Unofficial Transcript. For Report screen, make sure the academic institution says Laurel Ridge Community College. Click on the down arrow to choose “Unofficial Transcript” and select the “Go” button. 
2. High school transcripts may be used for one year only, when first applying.

1. If you have trouble logging into SIS, please contact Enrollment Services:  Middletown: 540.868.7105; Fauquier: 540.351.1507; or see your base high school career coach for assistance.
2. To schedule an advising appointment with Laurel Ridge, please contact the Office of Early College Scholars & High School Partnership at 540.868.7210. If you are planning to earn a certificate and/or degree, you must have an advising appointment by the spring semester of your sophomore year.

For those opting to earn college credit, dual enrollment forms with instructions will be distributed to all MVGS students twice per year for fall registration and tuition and spring registration and tuition.  Students will complete the Laurel Ridge dual enrollment registration and enrollment forms for MVGS classes through the Governor’s School.  

For more information about Dual Enrollment, please visit https://laurelridge.edu/high-school-and-homeschool-students/ 

6. ATTENDANCE

Since the academic pace at the Governor’s School is accelerated, it is very important that student absences be kept to a minimum; this includes late arrivals to school (tardies) and early releases from school. Continuation in the program may be contingent upon an acceptable attendance record.

Parents/guardians should report absences, tardies, and early dismissals via the MVGS webpage (“Report Absence”) or by calling 540-868-7237. If a student knows in advance that he/she will be absent from Governor’s School for personal reasons or a base school academic activity, it is the student’s responsibility to contact each teacher prior to the absence.

Absences, tardies, and early dismissals will be reported daily to the base school. School division attendance policies will be in effect, which may result in discipline and/or truancy filing.  Excessive tardies and/or absences may result in suspension of driving privileges at Laurel Ridge, withdrawal from MVGS, and/or removal from MVGS field experiences at the Director’s discretion. A parent/guardian should contact the MVGS Director immediately if a student will be absent for an extended medical situation. A doctor’s excuse may be required.  Be aware that attendance is transcripted and may impact post-secondary plans.  

7. MVGS ACADEMIC-YEAR CALENDAR/INCLEMENT WEATHER

The MVGS Governing Board has approved an academic-year calendar for MVGS. This academic-year calendar is consistent with, but may not exactly reflect, the students’ local school division calendars. If MVGS is closed due to weather, a student will be responsible for web-based instruction. If a school division is closed due to inclement weather and MVGS is open, a student may choose to attend MVGS considering the school division will not provide transportation in such cases. The student is responsible for any work missed.  Seniors’ final exam schedule and last day of attendance will depend on the school division’s graduation date. Please see the MVGS webpage at www.mvgshome.org for the academic year calendar and inclement weather practices.

8. MVGS TRANSPORTATION

MVGS students shall be expected to follow the transportation expectations of their school divisions. The base schools will handle all transportation matters/issues. School divisions provide transportation to MVGS. Permission may be granted for students to drive to MVGS or to be passengers in other students' cars. Parental/guardian approval and assumption of risk for driving to/from campus will be required via the MVGS Universal Acknowledgements and Signatures Form located in Section XVII - Forms in his handbook.  Students may not drive to field experiences. School division, charter buses, school activity buses, or rental vans shall be contracted for field experiences, and school division transportation expectations will be in effect. Section X continues to discuss student code of conduct in regards to transportation.

Students approved to drive to campus must obtain a Laurel Ridge parking permit by visiting the Laurel Ridge campus police.  There is no cost for the parking permit.

9. STUDENT GRADES, REPORT CARDS, TRANSCRIPTS, TESTING and OTHER SERVICES

MVGS students will be on a nine-week grading period. Report cards will be issued from their base schools.  The MVGS Academic-Year Calendar indicates the dates on which each of the MVGS nine week grading periods will conclude. The MVGS Governing Board approves this grading schedule with the understanding that it will be consistent with, but may not exactly reflect, each school division’s grading schedules.

MVGS will report grades to school divisions.  Credit is awarded through the base high school.

A student who graduates while enrolled in MVGS will receive the base high school’s diploma.  The Virginia Department of Education Governor’s School Seal will be affixed to the diploma if the student completes the entirety of the MVGS program requirements.

MVGS courses will be part of the student’s base high school transcript. A description of the MVGS program and courses, entitled “MVGS Transcript Profile,” should be attached to the transcript by the base school counselor. This can be located on the MVGS webpage. Students must request transcripts showing dual enrollment college credit from Laurel Ridge.

Virginia SOL and other standardized testing services will be provided at the student’s base school.  Students enrolled in Collegiate Chemistry may be required to take the VA SOL Chemistry Test.  Students enrolled in Humanities 11 will be required to take the VA SOL English 11 Tests.  MVGS course semester and final examinations will be administered at MVGS.  Students may register for Advanced Placement Exams, which will be administered at the base schools according to local school division policy.  Be advised that AP tests are administered in May, but students must sign up in September.  

In an effort to better serve our students and parents, MVGS has a Program Counselor on the staff. The MVGS Program Counselor will provide support in the following areas:

• Assisting students in accessing information relating to all areas of the college admission   

                     process

• Working closely with base school counselors regarding a variety of issues affecting MVGS 

                     students

• Providing individual and group counseling on school related issues
• Organizing informational forums for prospective students and parents who are

                     considering MVGS as an academic option to supplement the high school curriculum 

10. STUDENT BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS & ACCOUNTABILITY, ACADEMIC HONESTY & PLEDGE

All Virginia Governor’s School students undergo an eligibility screening process that includes references to responsible conduct.  MVGS students are expected to be committed to:

1. Embodying high standards of quality in pursuit of excellence;
2. Conducting themselves in a manner that positively affects the learning community’s pursuit of its educational objective; and
3. Being exemplary role models of responsible citizenship and decision making.

A student is accountable for the student codes of conduct for the local school division, Laurel Ridge Community College, and MVGS as outlined in this section.  Laurel Ridge’s policies, which contain the Laurel Ridge’s Academic, Administrative, Human Resources, and Student Policies, can be found for review online at:  https://laurelridge.edu/policies/.

MVGS students are responsible for their actions traveling to campus, on-campus, and on community field experiences.  Infractions of codes of conduct will be referred to the student’s base high school administration for disciplinary action as designated by the local school division.  Some infractions may be reported to Laurel Ridge Community College campus policy and/or Dean of Students, depending on severity.  MVGS students have the responsibility of good citizenship as well as their rights to due process.

The MVGS students shall have the following expectations for behavior:

1. Attend school and report to all classes regularly and on time.
2. Demonstrate respect for other students, faculty, and staff.
3. Demonstrate respect for the property of MVGS, Laurel Ridge, and any other educational, community, or business property involved in MVGS instructional activities.
4. Refrain from conduct that is disruptive to any MVGS or Laurel Ridge class or activity.
5. Remain on Laurel Ridge campus during MVGS school hours.
6. Abide by the acceptable technology and Internet use policies of home-based schools and Laurel Ridge.
7. Refrain from abusive language, fighting, obscene conduct, public profanity, or stealing.
8. Abide by regulations governing travel to and from MVGS on school buses and/or private vehicles.
9. Adhere to Laurel Ridge campus safety and common courtesy expectations.
10. Not engage in any form of dishonesty, including cheating, plagiarism, or knowingly furnishing false information or documents. This may include the unethical use of AI.
11. Not be in possession of illegal or dangerous weapons, look-alike weapons, or other instruments intended to inflict bodily harm.
12. Not be in possession of or use alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs. The Laurel Ridge campus public smoking area is off-limits to MVGS students.
13. Not intentionally misuse or damage any of the Laurel Ridge teleconferencing, Internet, or web-based technology systems.
14. Adhere to the loss/damaged textbook and/or materials expectation and fees of their school division, Laurel Ridge, and MVGS. Failure to pay any outstanding fines may result in a referral to a collection agency.
15. Adhere to appropriate dress that supports the campus or community learning activity for the day and is in compliance with their school division dress code.

Academic honesty is essential in developing students’ full intellectual potential and self worth. An inherent aspect of education is instilling a sense of honor, integrity, and high principles that extend to all facets of life. It requires students and teachers to analyze what they know and to set goals to expand both their knowledge and skill foundation. It is a belief of the MVGS community that it is in each person’s best interest to always adhere to the values of honesty, integrity, and respect. MVGS academic honesty is designed to foster an environment of moral excellence based on a shared code of values.

MVGS students shall maintain a high standard of honesty in their coursework. Students shall not give or accept unauthorized assistance. Unauthorized assistance includes sharing oral and written information during examinations, tests, quizzes, homework assignments; and consulting written materials or copying another’s work without the teacher’s expressed permission. Tests shall not be taken out of the examination room without the teacher's expressed permission and shall be completed within the allotted time. Notes or other sources shall not be consulted unless specifically authorized by the faculty member administering the examination. Cheating shall include, but is not limited to, copying, plagiarism, unauthorized collaboration, unauthorized divulging of information, and/or unethical use of AI. Plagiarism is defined as the presentation of someone else's ideas or words as one’s own. Falsification includes the intent to mislead, as well as forgery of any signatures. Lying or stealing violates the principles of integrity and respect for self, others and property. MVGS will follow the Laurel Ridge Procedure in cases of Academic Dishonesty, which aligns closely with school district practices.  Please visit https://laurelridge.edu/policies/ and click on “Academic Policies” for more details.

MVGS faculty members shall serve as professional role models for life-long learning and shall exemplify the values of honor, respect, and integrity. They shall be responsible for setting clear expectations under which their classes operate; i.e. when they encourage or prohibit cooperation among students; what constitutes plagiarism; and how to pursue and then document scholarly information sources.

MVGS academic honesty is an expression of the student's support of a learning environment based on honor, integrity, and scholarly pursuit. The following is the MVGS Honor Pledge : "I have neither given nor received any unauthorized assistance on this assignment." The MVGS Honor Pledge is designed to reflect and reinforce the honor code expectation of the students’ home-based schools.

11. TECHNOLOGY

Technology is an important instructional tool of MVGS.  A student’s participation in MVGS is contingent upon the ethical and appropriate use of the Laurel Ridge teleconferencing, networking, and web-based systems as well as responsible use of laptop computers issued by the school divisions or MVGS. The Laurel Ridge computer use agreement can be found online at:  https://laurelridge.edu/computer-use-agreement/.

The Mountain Vista Governor’s School (MVGS) Governing Board has provided computers to MVGS students to promote educational excellence by facilitating resource sharing, innovation, and communication. These computers will be essential tools used throughout the school year. Please direct any questions or concerns to: DeAnne Wilmore, Office Manager, Mountain Vista Governor’s School 540-347-6237.

These computers may be used at the Governor’s School, base school (per school division policy), and home. In addition, students may use Laurel Ridge Community College computer systems in their classes.

All use of MVGS-issued or Laurel Ridge computers and associated MVGS or Laurel Ridge supplied domain software (Google Classroom, Gmail, etc.) must be in support of education and/or research. Use of a computer system is a privilege, not a right. Any communication or material used on the computer system, including electronic mail or deleted files, may be monitored or read by school officials. MVGS, Laurel Ridge, and/or school division personnel maintain the right at any time to exclude a student from access to a MVGS designated laptop computer or computer system because of inappropriate or negligent use. All computers issued to students will have Internet filtering software to prevent access to inappropriate Internet materials. This filtering is required by Virginia State Code 22.1- 70.2. Disabling or removing this filtering software may result in disciplinary action.

Students are allowed to use personally owned devices at MVGS per MVGS Governing Board Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy, which can be reviewed in the MVGS Universal Acknowledgements and Signatures Form located in Section XVII - Forms in his handbook.

Students at MVGS who received approval and filed appropriate documentation as designated by MVGS will be allowed to take their assigned laptop computer away from the school. Upon the termination of the student’s enrollment, the assigned laptop computer and all accessories must be returned to MVGS. In the event that the laptop computer and accessories are not returned when the student’s enrollment is terminated, appropriate school disciplinary action will be taken until the laptop is returned.  Referral to a collection agency may occur as well.

The student responsibilities for MVGS supplied devices (also good advice for personal devices) include, but are not limited to:

♦ Students must keep their laptop computer in their possession or securely stored at their work, home, and/or school locations.

♦ Students must follow the MVGS Computer Use Agreement as well as the Laurel Ridge Community College/VCCS Technology Ethics agreement.

♦ No person other than the assigned student may use the laptop.

♦ Students are not allowed to leave laptops in hallways, auditoriums, etc. Keep them secured.

♦ Students must use a computer bag or backpack for the student’s assigned laptop computer and the student must transport the laptop computer in an approved backpack or bag at all times.

♦ Name tags must be present on the backpack and laptop computer at all times.

♦ The student will not damage, alter, or cause malfunction to the laptop computer or computer system.

♦ No food, candy or beverages should be consumed while using the laptop computer.

Each user is responsible for his or her actions on the computer system and domain software. Prohibited and unacceptable conduct includes, but is not limited to:

♦ Using the network for any illegal activity, including violation of copyright or contracts, transmitting any material in violation of any federal, state or local law, or sending, receiving, viewing or downloading illegal material via the computer system.

♦ Unauthorized downloading of software, including proxy servers.

♦ Using the computer system for private financial or commercial gain.

♦ Using the computer system for commercial purposes or private advertising.

♦ Wastefully using resources, such as file space.

♦ Gaining unauthorized access to resources or entities.

♦ Posting material authorized or created by another without his or her consent.

♦ Submitting, posting, publishing or displaying any obscene, profane, threatening, illegal or other inappropriate material.

♦ Using the computer system while access privileges are suspended or revoked.

♦ Vandalizing the computer system, including destroying data by creating or spreading viruses or by other means.

♦ Bypassing or disabling Internet filtering software.

♦ Developing or distributing virus software.

Each user is expected to abide by generally accepted rules of etiquette, regardless of whether you are using an MVGS supplied or personal computer in the MVGS or Laurel Ridge domain including the following:

♦ Identify who you are on any discussion or other posts

♦ Be polite.

♦ Do not forge, intercept, or interfere with electronic mail messages.

♦ Use appropriate language. The use of obscene, lewd, profane, threatening or disrespectful language is prohibited.

♦ Respect the computer system’s resource limits.

♦ Do not post chain letters or download large files.

♦ Do not use the computer system to disrupt others.  Students must seek the approval of the MVGS Director if wanting to send an email using MVGS email groups. 

♦ Do not read, modify, or delete data owned by others.

♦ Do not share passwords to protected sites or MVGS licensed software with unauthorized users.

A student and parent/guardian must sign the Mountain Vista Governor’s School Universal Acknowledgements and Signatures Form, located in Section XVII - Forms in his handbook, before the student uses the designated MVGS laptop and computer systems or personal computer at school. The failure of any student to follow the terms of the Agreement may result in loss of computer system privileges, disciplinary action, and/or appropriate legal action.

Neither Laurel Ridge, MVGS, nor the participating counties are responsible for any information that may be lost, damaged, or unavailable when using the computer system or for any information retrieved via the Internet. Furthermore, Laurel Ridge, MVGS, and participating counties will not be responsible for any unauthorized charges or fees resulting from access to the computer system, for theft, loss or purposeful damage to the laptop computer.

The following FAQ may assist in explaining acceptable use of laptops used by MVGS students.

• Am I allowed to install my home Internet and printer software and drivers on the laptop? Yes. You should also be aware that some applications conflict with programs. If the newly installed application conflicts with the network or interferes with the intended use of the computer, the laptop will be re-imaged.
• Am I allowed to install other software on my laptop? Any software that is to be installed on the laptop must be approved by the MVGS faculty.
• Can my family use my MVGS laptop? No. This is unacceptable use of MVGS designated property. You should be mindful that the MVGS retain ownership rights to the computers at all time. You are responsible for the machine and the material loaded onto the machine. MVGS participating districts reserve the right to seek compensation and/or take disciplinary action in instances where the machine is damaged, contains material deemed objectionable by MVGS or the division, or is being used in violation of MVGS or division regulations.
• Am I financially responsible for the laptop if it is lost, stolen or damaged beyond repair while in my possession? MVGS and your school division trusts you with the responsibility to care for the laptop while it is in your possession. MVGS expects the laptop to be under your care and control at all times. If the laptop is damaged, the liability will fall on the student to repair or replace the machine.
• What should I do if my laptop is lost or stolen?  Do not delay in reporting the loss or theft. Contact the police in the jurisdiction in which the laptop was lost. Be sure to get a report including a case number. Contact MVGS.
• Should I back up my data/information?  How?  MVGS recommends that you keep all data on your Google drive. If you keep data locally on your device, you are responsible for regularly backing up your data. Using a flash drive or external hard drive is a convenient backup means. If the system needs to be re-imaged, you will lose all saved work, including passwords and bookmarks, so regular data backup is imperative.

While Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools are becoming more prevalent in our society, it is important to use them responsibly and ethically. There is no “one size fits all policy” for AI use in education. But, MVGS acknowledges that AI tools can be used to help brainstorm assignments, much like doing general Internet searches early on in assignments. However, students are reminded that all work submitted must be their own, completed in accordance with Laurel Ridge Community College Academic Policies, as noted above.  Intellectual honesty is vital to an academic community and for fair evaluation of student work.  It is the student’s responsibility to make all submitted work their own, maintain academic integrity, and avoid any type of plagiarism. Students need to be aware that the accuracy or quality of AI generated content will not meet the standards in the MVGS program, even if students only incorporate such content partially and after substantial paraphrasing, modification, and/or editing.  MVGS reserves the right to use various plagiarism checking tools in evaluating all student work, including those screening for AI generated content, and impose consequences accordingly.  The following are some guidelines for what not to do when using AI in your MVGS assignments and for plagiarism detection:

1. Do not rely on AI tools to complete MVGS assignments.  It is important to understand the material and complete assignments on your own, using AI tools as a supplemental tool rather than a replacement for your own work.
2. Do not use AI tools to plagiarize.  Using AI to generate or modify content to evade plagiarism detection is unethical and violates academic integrity.
3. Do not assume that AI responses are always correct.  It has been noted that AI can generate inaccurate results.

                Given the wide variety of disciplines taught at MVGS and the variety of ways that AI can be
                used or abused in the educational setting, MVGS instructors reserve the right to define more or
                less stringent AI usage guidelines based on specific learning outcomes in their courses.  This
                may be communicated verbally and/or in writing to students.

12. MVGS FIELD EXPERIENCE POLICY/PROCEDURES

The MVGS program is designed to be community-based. A main objective is to provide for authentic learning opportunities beyond the classroom environment.  An MVGS field experience is a school-sponsored and school-chaperoned activity, which provides an effective means of accomplishing a stated instructional activity with specific objectives and learning activities defined in advance.  These field experiences must be approved by the MVGS Director and may be during regular or extended school time. MVGS staff members and designated chaperones will supervise. School vehicles and commercially licensed carriers or rental cars will provide transportation for field experiences. A student will not be approved as a driver for a field experience.

13. GOVERNANCE AND FISCAL AGENT

Supervision for the MVGS program is by a regional Governing Board with recommendations from an Academic Advisory Board.  The Governing Board is made up of school board members and superintendents from each of the participating school divisions as authorized by Section 22.1-26 of the Code of Virginia. An Agreement to Establish and Operate a Regional Academic-Year Governor’s School was approved by the Governing Board on November 21, 2005.  This document provides an operational agreement with a three-year funding commitment from each participating division. The fiscal agent for MVGS is Fauquier County Public Schools.

14. THE MVGS FOUNDATION

The MVGS Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. The mission of the Mountain Vista Foundation is to:

1. Support the education of students at Mountain Vista Governor’s School.
2. Support the growth and expansion of the Governor’s School program in Clarke County, Culpeper County, Fauquier County, Frederick County, Rappahannock County, Warren County, and Winchester City.
3. Provide financial support to MVGS.

Parents/guardians of MVGS students and MVGS alumni are considered members of the Foundation.  Meetings are held monthly.  If you would like further information, please vist the MVGS webpage.

15. FACULTY

Listed below are the preferred qualifications for an MVGS instructor:

1. Virginia Teaching License, Master’s Degree, and three (3) years of teaching experience
2. 18 hours of graduate credit in specific subject area
3. Endorsement in gifted education
4. Knowledge of a variety of instructional models
5. Knowledge of technology-enhanced instruction
6. Leadership qualities with strong analytical and assessment skills
7. Ability to balance an interdisciplinary knowledge-based curriculum with a learner-centered philosophy
8. Effective oral and written communication skills
9. Ability to design, develop, and implement a differentiated curriculum
10. Ability to plan, organize, and direct learning activities utilizing technology within a team-teaching environment
11. Ability to work effectively with school personnel, students, parents, and the community
12. Possession of the following personal characteristics: innovation, flexibility, organization, enthusiasm, confidence, dependability, cooperation, reflection, self-motivation, and the desire to be a life-long learner.

The MVGS instructors for 2024-25 are listed below.  

16. MVGS STUDENT WITHDRAWAL OR DISMISSAL POLICY/PROCEDURES

A student wishing to withdraw from MVGS should adhere to the MVGS Withdrawal Policy/Procedures as further noted in Section XIX. Criteria for withdrawing a student from MVGS should be based on the best interest of the student and the school. There are two time periods designated for a student to withdraw from the MVGS program:

1. At the end of the MVGS first semester (request must be submitted in writing to the MVGS Director no later than November 1st)
2. At the end of the MVGS school year (request must be submitted in writing to the MVGS Director no later than April 1st)

The MVGS Director has the authority to recommend that a student be withdrawn due to continual failing grades, inappropriate behavior, and/or attendance (including excessive tardies or early dismissals).  Basically, a student’s ABC’s (attendance, behavior, coursework) will be reviewed on matters of withdrawal.

The MVGS Director (or designee) shall be responsible for reporting a student’s failing grades, inappropriate behavior, and/or attendance to the student’s home-based school administrator and for collaborating with that administrator on an appropriate disciplinary resolution. Laurel Ridge Community College campus police and/or Dean of Student may be involved depending on the nature of the situation.

The MVGS Director may request dismissal of the student from the MVGS for the following, but not limited to:

1. Code of Conduct violations resulting in actions by the local school board to suspend or expel the student from public school.
2. Failure of the student to meet the high MVGS academic course expectations as documented in a MVGS Plan for Success.
3. Multiple honor code violations after a student has failed to meet the honor code expectations as documented in a MVGS Plan for Success.
4. Intentional misuse or damage of any of the Laurel Ridge teleconferencing, Internet, or web-based technology.
5. Excessive absenteeism, tardies, and/or early dismissals.

The director’s request for a student’s dismissal shall be submitted to the student’s home-based school principal and the student’s parents/guardian. A meeting shall be convened to review the request, based on due process, and to recommend appropriate action.

A student who is dismissed from the MVGS for matters of conduct shall be ineligible to reapply for admission for a period of not less than 365 calendar days from the date of dismissal.

17. PLAN FOR SUCCESS

The faculty at MVGS seeks to ensure that every student excels at advanced levels of learning and succeeds socially and emotionally as well as academically.  If a teacher, student, counselor, and/or parent/guardian notices a progressive decline in an individual’s academic performance or social success at MVGS, the director should be notified immediately.  This notification may take place at any time but should be monitored upon the completion of each interim and advisory.  Actions from the following list should take place:

1. The teacher should talk with the student to clarify and address concerns, missing assignments, changes in performances, etc.
2. The student’s team of MVGS teachers and MVGS program counselor should be consulted.
3. Parents/guardians, if unaware, should be contacted.  
4. A team meeting to review the student’s performance and to discuss what action is best for the student may be organized and held by the MVGS Program Counselor. This assessment may result in the development of an individualized MVGS plan for success that contains specific objectives, strategies for improvement, outcomes, and a designated time period for reassessment. Team members must include the student, parents/guardians, MVGS teachers, MVGS school counselor, and director. If deemed appropriate, base school teachers, school counselors, the local gifted and talented coordinator, and/or the base school administrator may be invited.
5. MVGS instructors or counselor shall serve as communication liaisons among the student, parent/guardian, and base school.
6. MVGS faculty and/or staff will provide follow-up.

18. FORMS

This handbook contains the MVGS Universal Acknowledgements and Signatures Form which is required for all students.  Other forms, such as field trip permission, may be required throughout the school year.  Please click here to access a printable version of the form:

Link to MVGS Universal Acknowledgements and Signatures Form

19. MVGS STUDENT WITHDRAWAL POLICY

The application process for MVGS is rigorous, and space is limited to less than two percent of the students in the district. It is expected that students and families seriously consider their decision before accepting a position in this unique program. All students accepted into the MVGS are expected to complete the full year. If, for some extreme circumstance, a student feels it may be necessary to request a withdrawal, MVGS should be contacted immediately so a conference may be arranged without delay.  

A student withdrawing from Mountain Vista Governor’s (MVGS) shall be expected to adhere to the following MVGS policy/procedures. Criteria for withdrawing from MVGS shall be based on what is in the best interest of the student and the school.

There shall be two time periods designated for withdrawing from the MVGS program:

• At the end of the first semester  (request must be submitted in writing to the MVGS Director
             no later than November 1st)
• At the end of the school year.  (request must be submitted in writing to the MVGS Director
             no later than April 1st)

A student who withdraws at other times will be subject to the home school division’s policy relating to withdrawal from courses.        

The student shall return to the home school with the cumulative numerical grade and credit earned through MVGS and shall be placed into an appropriate course as scheduling allows.  The numerical grade shall be used in accordance with the home school’s academic and grading policies.  In schools using 4X4 scheduling, the student who withdraws at the end of the first semester shall receive .5 elective credits per course (unweighted), if local school/division policy allows. If a student successfully completes a weighted course in the MVGS program, weighted credit shall be issued.  If a student transfers from MVGS into an equivalent weighted course and successfully completes that course, the student shall receive weighted credit.  

If the student is enrolled in a course for dual enrollment credit, the withdrawal policy of Laurel Ridge Community College shall be in effect. As per Laurel Ridge policy, withdrawal prior to the end of first semester requires the student to forfeit college credit and to receive a “W” on the college transcript.  If the student withdraws from MVGS at the end of the first semester, the student shall receive a grade from MVGS for the dual enrolled course(s) in which they were enrolled for that semester.  Credits received shall be based upon the grade earned in the course(s).

A student shall not re-enter MVGS during the same year in which he or she has withdrawn.  A student who has withdrawn shall be required to re-apply the following year if desiring to re-enter MVGS.  A student that is provided dual enrollment tuition assistance through the MVGS Foundation or Laurel Ridge may be requested to re-pay the encumbered assistance if he/she needs to withdraw from MVGS as they will be breaking the understood commitment to complete a certificate, credential, and/or degree.

If a parent/guardian believes that the remaining at MVGS may not be in the best interest of the student:

1. The parent shall contact the director or the student’s MVGS instructor/counselor and the home-based school guidance counselor to request a team meeting to review the student’s academic record and to discuss what action is best for the student. This assessment may result in the development of an individualized MVGS plan for success that contains specific objectives, strategies for improvement, outcomes, and a designated time period for reassessment. MVGS instructors shall serve as communication liaisons between the student and parent.
2. If it is determined that the student shall withdraw from MVGS at the end of the first semester or at the end of the school year, the parent/guardian shall submit in writing to the director a request to withdraw the student.  The director shall send a copy of the letter/email to the home-based school counselor and the school division’s gifted education coordinator.
3. If, after meeting with the director, the student’s instructors, school division administrator, and school counselor, the parent/guardian feels that the child should be withdrawn from Governor’s School at a time other than the end of the semester or year, the parent/guardian shall appeal in writing to the superintendent of the local school division.  The director will submit a recommendation based on the consensus of the educators’ opinions regarding the withdrawal. The decision of the superintendent will be final.  
4. The student may be asked to participate in an exit interview to provide feedback data for improving the MVGS program.

If the director and MVGS instructors believe that remaining at MVGS may not be in the best interest of the student:

1. The student’s MVGS instructor or the director shall contact the parent/guardian to arrange an assessment of academic progress. An individualized MVGS plan for success shall be developed that contains specific objectives, strategies for improvement, outcomes, and a designated time period for reassessment. MVGS instructors shall serve as communication liaisons between the student and parent/guardian.
2. If the director determines that the student will withdraw from MVGS at the end of the first semester or at the end of the school year, the director shall confirm in writing (email or letter) to the parent, base school counselor, and school division gifted education coordinator.  
3. The student may be asked to participate in an exit interview to provide feedback data for improving the MVGS program.

If the director and the home-based school counselor and/or administrator or designees determine that a student shall be withdrawn due to an infraction of the MVGS or Laurel Ridge or home-based school’s Student Code of Conduct:

1. The director’s request for a student’s dismissal shall be submitted to the student’s home-based school principal, counselor, and the student’s parents/guardian.  
2. A meeting shall be convened by the base high school to review the request, based on school-division policy and due process, and to recommend appropriate action.  

20. PAYMENT METHOD

MVGS uses SchoolCash Online for SOME school items and activity fees. Parents/guardians and
students will receive an email notification of new fees or items available for purchase, including         field trips, yearbooks, spirit wear, and more. Please be sure your email information in JupiterEd is correct.  MVGS families need to be aware that dual enrollment tuition cannot be paid through SchoolCashOnline at this time.  Dual enrollment tuition needs to paid via check, cash, or money order.

MVGS families need to register for SchoolCashOnline which is safe, simple, and secure.  To
register, go to: https://fcps1.schoolcashonline.com/.

When logging in, click “I don’t want to add a student” at the bottom of the page.  You will not be
able to add a student.  See diagram below to assist in the process.

When there is something that can be paid online, the system will send out an email with a link like the example below.  Please make sure to put the student’s name in the “Who are you purchasing this for” box to ensure proper documentation of receipt.

21. CONCLUSION

As MVGS is an evolving program, this is an evolving document. It is designed to provide a helpful tool for students and parents.  The MVGS website (www.mvgshome.org) is continually updated with the most current news and information. Further questions can be directed to Ladona Gorham, MVGS Director at lgorham@mvgshome.org or to your school division’s Gifted and Talented Coordinator.  

Mountain Vista Governor's School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, childbirth or other medical conditions, political affiliation, gender, gender identity, marital status, genetic information, disability, age, or status as a veteran in its programs and activities.