Learn more about how our FREE online program works
Learn more about how our FREE online program works
Real School. Real Community. Learn From Anywhere in Minnesota.
Minnesota Virtual Schools (MNVS) is a tuition-free online public charter school serving students in kindergarten through 12th grade across all of Minnesota. Elementary students learn with live daily instruction every morning. Middle and high schoolers work flexibly with licensed teachers and on-demand support. And everyone — K through 12 — gets in-person field trips, school events, and over 20 clubs throughout the year.
What Is Minnesota Virtual Schools?
Minnesota Virtual Schools (MNVS) is a tuition-free online public charter school serving students in grades K–12 throughout the state of Minnesota. It is one of Minnesota’s largest online K–12 public schools, with over 20 years of experience delivering high-quality online education to Minnesota families.
MNVS is a program of Minnesota Transitions Charter School (MTCS), the largest charter school district in Minnesota, authorized by Pillsbury United Communities. The school is fully accredited, all courses are aligned with Minnesota State Academic Standards and NCAA-approved, and students graduate with a recognized diploma.
Every student enrolled at MNVS from kindergarten through 12th grade receives a school-provided touchscreen Chromebook at no cost, fully set up for all courses and school platforms to use while they are enrolled.
MNVS serves three school levels — elementary (K–5), middle school (6–8), and high school (9–12) — each structured for that age group’s learning needs.
The school’s administrative office is at 1801 County Road B West, #300, Roseville, MN 55113, but students learn from home or anywhere in Minnesota.
Why Families Choose Minnesota Virtual Schools
Flexible Learning That Fits Your Family’s Life
Families choose MNVS for many different reasons — a student managing a health condition, a need for a more flexible daily schedule, a desire for a faster or slower learning pace, the elimination of peer distractions, a safer environment after experiencing bullying, or a schedule that accommodates travel or competitive activities. Whatever the reason, MNVS is built to meet students where they are.
A Learning Structure Built for Every Age
MNVS structures the school day differently depending on grade level — because a kindergartner and a high schooler need very different things. Elementary students (K–5) have live instruction with their teacher and classmates every morning, followed by flexible learning time in the afternoon. Middle school students (6–8) have a handful of live instruction classes alongside a more flexible, self-directed schedule. High school students (9–12) work in a fully flexible, self-paced online environment — ideal for students who need total schedule independence. At every level, licensed Minnesota-certified teachers are available for support and one-on-one help.
Synchronous vs. Asynchronous Learning at MNVS
One of the most common questions families ask about online school is: do students attend class at a set time, or do they work on their own schedule? At MNVS, the answer depends on the grade level — and it is designed that way intentionally.
What is the difference between synchronous learning and asynchronous learning?
Synchronous learning means students and teachers are online at the same time — attending live classes, participating in real-time discussions, and interacting directly with their teacher and classmates. It mirrors a traditional classroom experience, just delivered online.
Asynchronous learning means students work through coursework on their own schedule — watching recorded lessons, completing assignments, and accessing materials whenever works best for them. There is no required log-in time. Students still have access to licensed teachers for support, but the day is not structured around a fixed clock.
More Than 20 Clubs and Activities
MNVS takes the isolation concern of online school seriously — and has built something to address it. Over 20 clubs and activities are available for students across grade levels, including clubs at the elementary level. From Cosplay Club and Writers Club to the Neurodiverse & Neurospicy Club, Dungeons & Dragons Club, Pet Club, Student Parents’ Club, Book Club, and Arts and Crafts Club — there is something for nearly every interest.
In-Person Field Trips and Events Throughout the Year
Every year, MNVS organizes multiple in-person field trips and school-wide events that bring the entire student community together in real life — not just online. Past events have included trips to Grand Slam (arcades, laser tag, mini golf), the Feed My Starving Children service trip, in-person picture day, painting parties, movie and popcorn events, and cultural learning experiences. These events are optional.
A Chromebook for Every Student
Every student enrolled at MNVS from kindergarten through 12th grade receives a school-provided touchscreen Chromebook at no cost, fully set up for all courses and school platforms to use while they are enrolled.
Comprehensive Support — Academic and Personal
MNVS provides full-service student support including school counselors, a comprehensive special education program for students with IEPs, English language learner services for multilingual students, and access to EmpowerU — an evidence-based mental health and resilience course for students dealing with anxiety, low motivation, or negative thinking.
Learn From Anywhere in Minnesota
Students can attend MNVS from anywhere in the state — urban, suburban, or rural. This is especially valuable for families in areas with limited school options, students who travel frequently, or families who move during the school year.
Online School With a Real Community
Over 20 clubs and activities
MNVS clubs include: Arts and Crafts Club · Book Club · Cosplay Club · Writers Club · Neurodiverse & Neurospicy Club · Student Parents’ Club · Dungeons & Dragons Club · Pet Club · and more — with several clubs available at the elementary level.
In-person field trips and events every year
Past events include: Grand Slam (arcades, laser tag, mini golf) · Feed My Starving Children service event · In-person picture day · Virtual painting parties · Movie and popcorn events · Cultural learning experiences · Seasonal school-wide gatherings.
Students from across Minnesota come together at these events — meeting in person the classmates they’ve gotten to know online throughout the year.
FAQs about MN Virtual Schools
Yes! MNVS graduates receive a state-recognized diploma and may participate in our in-person graduation ceremony.
Any K–12 student residing in Minnesota can attend MN Virtual Schools for free.
MNVS stands out for its high level of teacher-student interaction.
- Elementary: Live, daily instruction with licensed teachers, and the ability to take STEM-focused electives. We also have regular field trips and live experiences for all students to have the opportunity to engage in to build a strong school community.
- Middle School: Students are able to participate in a mix of synchronous and asynchronous courses that balance flexibility with direct teacher support. Students are able to participate in a variety of afterschool clubs and activities and join in regular field trips that build community.
- High School: Students are able to work on their coursework asynchronously and at their own pace. Our teachers and support staff regularly reach out to students to check on progress and offer assistance with course work and setting pacing goals. We offer more than 20 afterschool clubs and activities that are open to all students, and host field trips on a regular basis.
Schoolwide K-12: We also provide a wide range of student services including special education, English language support, social work, and mental health services.
MNVS is a tuition-free online public charter school for Minnesota students in grades K–12, part of Minnesota Transitions Charter School (MTCS), with over 20 years of experience in online education.
For elementary students, Flex Time is a daily open work period after lunch where students can catch up, get ahead, or work independently. Also, Flex Time is another major part of Tuesdays, as students meet for morning meeting with their class, then the remainder of the day is Flex Time to ensure they are on pace with their synchronous and asynchronous coursework.
For middle school students, most class instruction takes place in the mornings and students continue to work on their courses independently in the afternoon. Students can reach out to any of their teachers in the afternoon to schedule one-on-one support.
Yes! We have a comprehensive technology team at MNVS to support all tech needs for our students.
For current students experiencing technical difficulties, please reach out to our tech team for assistance at MNVSTechHelp@emailmtcs.org
Yes — fully accredited, NCAA-approved courses, and an MTCS diploma recognized by all colleges, universities, and military branches.
Yes! MN Virtual Schools is a free public charter school available to all K-12 students who reside in Minnesota.
- Elementary: Primarily synchronous, with 3 hours of daily live teaching each day with the exception of Tuesdays (it is a Flex Day for students to work asynchronously); Students still engage in morning meeting on Tuesdays before Flex Time.
- Middle School: Math, English, Science, and Social Studies courses meet synchronously 2 – 4 times per week depending on grade level. Students also take two additional elective classes that are asynchronous and work independently.
- High School: All courses are asynchronous and allow students to work at their own pace, although students may receive Special Education and English Language services in synchronous settings.
Visit our enrollment page or call 763-260-4133 to get started.
All students K-12 receive a school-provided Chromebook for their learning while they are enrolled.
Yes — a comprehensive special education program supports students with or that may need IEPs.
Yes — multiple in-person field trips and school-wide events every year. Grand Slam, Feeding My Starving Children, picture day, painting parties, and more.
Yes! MNVS offers over 20 clubs and activities for students to participate in, including some at the elementary level. You can view some of our club offerings here.
Yes — including rural Minnesota. Students can learn from home or anywhere in the state.
Yes! We build in time for non-screen activities and encourage physical movement throughout the day.
- May 1, 2026
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No School - Staff Development
May 1, 2026
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- May 15, 2026
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K-12 Here's the Scoop Ice Cream Social
May 15, 2026 11:00 am - 2:00 pm
MN Virtual Schools, 1801 County B Rd W Ste 300, Roseville, MN 55113, USAJoin us at MNVS for: frozen treats, light snacks, MNVS swag, scavenger hunt, indoor &…
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