Hutch Today

Tracy File, a Kansas teacher, said during an interview that Acellus, an online teaching software touted for its innovative approach, has been working well for her students.

“It [Acellus] has been very positive,” File said during an interview with Hutchinson Today. “It’s very student-teacher-parent friendly.” 

File lives in Hutchinson and is a virtual school director for the Central State Academy (grades K-12) and Nickerson High School in Nickerson.

“This is our seventh year using it [Acellus],” she said.  

Acellus is a program designed by the International Academy of Science. A website for the learning technology says it is a “learning accelerator” that uses video-based lessons with cutting-edge technology to accelerate learning skills and improve standardized test scores.

The technology also claims to reduce dropout rates and improve on the ability of students to ready themselves for college classes.

The system touts its interactive approach to learning and its immediate feedback, providing results for students’ skills, identifying deficiencies, and allowing students to concentrate on and master foundational skills.

File said the COVID-19 epidemic has not disrupted the instruction.

“Not in the least,” she said. It’s business as usual. We’ve been able to keep our same schedule. The system always gives excellent support to students and myself as a provider if we have issues or questions.”

File said the school district uses two forms of Acellus, totally virtual online for K-12 students, and to provide electives, credit recovery, AP or honors classes at the high school not otherwise offered.

She said students are able to do well because they can move at their own pace and the instruction can be adjusted to meet individual needs.

Asked what subjects are most valuable, File said at the high school credit recovery and core classes, electives and CTE classes.

“Students will not fall behind and can make up a failed course immediately,” she said.    

File was asked why Acellus works for the school district.

“Because it’s so versatile,” she said.