Locally-Based Online Learning
Traverse City Area Public Schools is pleased to offer full-time online learning programs for families seeking a non-traditional educational experience.
Grades K-8: UpNorth Virtual
Open to K-8 students in the five-county region, UpNorth Virtual allows families to choose a full-time online learning program, while still being part of a local school community, including opportunities to participate in school activities and events and to utilize school resources, like counseling services, while taking courses completely online.
The district utilizes Lincoln Learning, an online platform for K-5 students, and Michigan Virtual for students in grades 6-8. The curriculum is aligned with state standards and taught by Michigan-certified teachers with TCAPS staff support. In addition, the district will offer local connections and enrichment opportunities and have access to counseling services. Local learning labs are held where students can study from school libraries and receive support from a teacher or mentor.
Note: When a student with a disability requests registration for virtual learning, the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) team must convene to consider how registering in virtual courses will impact the provision of a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) for a student with a disability. The IEP team will need to determine if virtual education is appropriate for the student to receive FAPE. The IEP team must make decisions about virtual registration and develop an IEP that describes how FAPE will be provided in conjunction with virtual courses before registration is considered at the district level.
For more information about enrolling, please contact your student's home school.
Grades 9-12: The Compass Learning Center
The Compass Learning Center, located in Traverse City, provides a unique learning lab opportunity for students to attend courses virtually yet receive in-person assistance. This hybrid opportunity provides students with the benefits of a school community and the opportunity to complete courses on their own schedule.
Every student learns differently and what works for one, may not work for another. No matter the reason, we are here to enrich your educational journey.
Learn more about this program on The Compass Learning Center website.
UpNorth Virtual On-Demand - Elementary
UpNorth Virtual On-Demand - Elementary
Elementary 2023-2024 UpNorth Virtual Learning
The enrollment period is now open for families wishing to request participation in UpNorth Virtual OnDemand. For more information or to enroll now, please contact your student's home school.
Program Overview
UpNorth Virtual On-Demand Elementary Overview
For Technology Issues
For technology issues, please complete this 
Tech Help Request Form, or contact the student help desk at tech-info@tcaps.net or 231.933.3328.
Teacher Mentors
Every On-Demand student is assigned to a TCAPS Mentor. They will be checking in with you weekly to make sure you are making the progress needed and are finding success in your online learning. Students may arrange for in-person meetings by appointment.
Teacher of Record/Mentor
Rhonda Busch
Email: BUSCHRH@tcaps.net
Learning Labs
Students can make arrangements where they can study from school libraries and receive support from a teacher or mentor. Contact your mentor to schedule an appointment.
Learning Platforms
- For school each day you will be logging in to Lincoln Learning (https://pulse.llsapps.org). This is where all of your learning will take place.
- Your username for Lincoln Learning is the same as your username and password for all TCAPS programs. If you do not know this, please contact your mentor. They will help you get logged in to Lincoln Learning. If that still doesn’t work, please contact info@tcaps.net.
UpNorth Virtual On-Demand - Secondary Students
UpNorth Virtual On Demand - Secondary Students
Secondary (6-8) Virtual Learning
The online learning option requires a semester-long commitment and are contingent on space availability.
All students who desire UpNorth Virtual Programming should complete the corresponding form below and connect directly with their school:
- East Middle School: 231.933.7300
- West Middle School: 231.933.8200
- TCAPS Montessori: 231.933.6420
Please note virtual learning is not always an appropriate educational option. TCAPS will make placement decisions for the UpNorth Virtual Learning program based on the individual learning needs of each student. Students who previously struggled with online learning or require more intensive assistance than currently available through the UpNorth Virtual platform will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis for enrollment. For more information, please contact your student’s building.
For Technology Issues
For technology issues, please complete this Tech Help Request Form, or contact the student help desk at tech-info@tcaps.net or 231.933-3328.
Learning Labs for On-Demand Students
Every On-Demand student is assigned to a TCAPS Mentor. We will be checking in with you bi-weekly to make sure you are making adequate progress and are finding success in your online learning.
Time slots to meet may be available by appointment only. Contact your mentor by contacting your school to schedule an appointment.
Virtual Course Offerings
The district utilizes Lincoln Learning, an online platform for K-5 students, and Michigan Virtual for secondary students (grades 6-8). All curriculum aligns with state standards.
