Victoria Campbell-News 4

About 750 Washoe County middle- and high school students are attending classes without ever setting foot in an actual classroom.

They take classes online as part of the Washoe Online Learning for the Future program, or WOLF.

"Some kids are in special ed, and it's been determined that this is a great option for them," said Kathy Reynolds, an education technology specialist. "Others are gifted and talented students who are trying to finish early. Some kids have to work to support their families, while others are semi-professional athletes.

"We have a whole range of students."

16-year-old Sarah Leo is one of the students who decided to finish high school on line, and is now taking art history and algebra. She says she doesn't miss all of the "drama" of high school.

"I just like being able to sit down and learn, and not have to deal with anything else going on in school," Leo said. "It's a lot less distracting."

Her mother, Jennifer, said her daughter is working harder than ever. "She was in accelerated classes before, but now she stays up all night to finish a course so she can take her exams in the morning. She'll stay up all night."

WOLF students earn diplomas that are accepted by all colleges. Fulltime students attend classes for free, while part-time students pay a fee for their coursework. Each student is in contact with teachers over the phone weekly, and can call for help whenever necessary. Students take their mid-term and final exams in the WOLF office under the supervision of a staff member.

For more information on WOLF, log onto www.washoe.k12.nv.us/suppcredit