1. What is Hemispheres Academy?
Hemispheres Academy is a small, flexible virtual school created by and for globally mobile families, including members of the Foreign Service community. Our mission is to provide a supportive, student-centered learning environment where students can thrive academically and socially no matter where in the world they live.
2. Who is Hemispheres Academy designed for?
Hemispheres Academy serves students in grades 2–12 who need a flexible, personalized educational experience. Many of our students are part of Foreign Service, diplomatic, or internationally mobile families, but we welcome any student who would benefit from our supportive online environment.
3. What makes Hemispheres Academy different from other online schools?
Hemispheres Academy is intentionally small, personal, and relationship-based. Our teachers understand the unique challenges of living abroad and work closely with students and families to create individualized learning plans. We focus on meeting students where they are, both academically and emotionally.
4. What is Hemispheres Time?
Hemispheres Time is our daily homeroom program that connects students across time zones. Led by our teacher-coaches, these live sessions include lessons and activities in art, music, movement, and Americana, as well as community-building activities. Hemispheres Time helps students build friendships and maintain a sense of connection with other globally mobile students.
5. What types of classes do you offer?
Students may enroll full-time or part-time. We offer a wide range of courses, including core academic subjects, individual courses such as Algebra I, and Advanced Placement (AP) classes. All of our fully accredited classes are based on the Common Core Standards and the Virginia Standards of Learning. The academic flexibility and high-quality classes allow students to supplement their local school or pursue a full academic program with us.
6. Is Hemispheres Academy accredited?
Yes. Hemispheres Academy provides official transcripts and accredited coursework. The Edmentum classes and curriculum are accredited through Cognia. We are continually working to strengthen our academic program and accreditation partnerships to ensure our students receive a high-quality, recognized education. In addition, our Hemispheres Time class is in the self-study process with Middle States, and we hope to have more to share next month!
7. How flexible is the learning schedule?
Our courses are largely asynchronous, meaning students can complete lessons at times that work for their schedule and time zone. This flexibility is especially helpful for families navigating travel, transitions between posts, or varying school calendars around the world. There are optional live classes in the East coast time zone as well as recorded classes available at all times.
8. How does Hemispheres support students with learning differences?
We are committed to being an inclusive school that supports a wide range of learning styles and needs. Hemispheres Academy can provide modified curricula, personalized pacing, and collaboration with outside specialists. When appropriate, we can also work with families and provider teams to incorporate 1:1 aides or other support services.
9. Who teaches at Hemispheres Academy?
Our teachers are experienced educators who understand the needs of globally mobile students. Most are from our Foreign Service Community and have U.S. teaching credentials. Many have personal or professional experience with international education and are committed to creating a supportive, encouraging learning environment for every student.
10. How do families get started?
Families interested in Hemispheres Academy are encouraged to schedule a conversation with our team. We will learn about your child’s goals, learning style, and schedule, and help you determine the best enrollment option—whether that’s full-time study, individual courses, or participation in Hemispheres Time.
11. How are you organized?
Hemispheres Academy is a nonprofit organization established in the State of Delaware, under the advising of a Board of Directors (BOD). We have tax exempt status with the IRS under EIN 87-0918200.
12. How does payment work for families with employer benefits?
We work with financial officers at embassies and businesses to ensure direct payment. Private pay families can pay tuition in a variety of ways. Contact us for more information.
13. Is there a discount for families with multiple children?
Yes, we can provide a discount for multiple family members in the same homeroom cohort. Email us at admin@hemispheresacademy.org for more information.