People have one week to sign up for a free new Lubbock ISD program with Texas Tech University that will allow students to learn from home at their own pace, according to a district news release issued Monday.
The district's board of trustees approved and signed a memorandum of understanding with Texas Tech K-12, creating Lubbock ISD Virtual Education. The program is a tuition-free, online education program to offer flexibility and empower students who don't thrive in a face-to-face environment, according to the Aug. 3 release.
“We understand that the very best and most effective way for public education is in a face-to-face traditional school, and the majority of our students fit in that pathway,” said Misty Rieber, Lubbock ISD chief academic
officer. “But we also know there are students where a face-to-face education doesn't work for their family. We are proud to offer this option for them with a partner that has a longstanding history of success in virtual education.”
Applications for the program opened today via Google Forms and close on Aug. 10 for the 2026-2027 school year. Space is limited. The program will begin on Aug. 12 and allow students to complete courses online at their own pace.
These students will also have access to:
- Technical assistance.
- Counseling support.
- Academic guidance.
- University Interscholastic League (UIL) activities if the middle and or high school student lives within the district.
- Career and technical education (CTE) courses at the Byron Martin Advanced Technology Center as space allows.
“LIVE is one more way our district is fulfilling our mission of preparing students for life by nurturing, developing and inspiring every child, every day,” said Lubbock ISD Superintendent Kathy Rollo. “We knew there were families who wanted to be part of our district, who wanted their children to be able to participate in UIL activities or CTE courses at our campuses, but, for one reason or another, traditional Monday through Friday, in-person participation just didn’t work for them. Now, we have a way to welcome them into our district and provide them with an option that meets their needs where they are.”
Eligible students must:
- Be a Texas resident.
- Provide proof they are reading on grade level.
- Have reliable high-speed internet access and adult support at home.
The program's students will be registered through certain campuses. Elementary will register with either Honey or Whiteside. Secondary students can register with any middle or high school, except Commander William C. McCool Academy and Talkington School for Young Women Leaders.
For secondary students to participate in UIL, they will need to live in the attendance zone of their registered campus. These students will still need to meet all course requirements, including attending practices, rehearsals, performances, games and competitions.
“Just like any other student, we will have tryouts, and they will have to maintain the academic requirements for participating in UIL,” Rieber said. “Families will have to transport the student to school for the class period, for rehearsals or practices, for games or performances, because if you're going to be a part of an orchestra, a golf or a swim team, we want to make sure you’re a team member that they can count on and that you're there on a regular basis.”
The courses will be taught by Texas Tech K-12 certified teachers and have 24/7 access to tutoring and resources.
“Strong partnerships create stronger opportunities for students,” said Texas Tech K-12 Superintendent Robert Bayard. “Our collaboration with Lubbock ISD reflects a shared commitment to expanding access to high-quality virtual education while supporting the diverse needs of students and families. By combining Lubbock ISD's deep connection to its community with Texas Tech K-12's longstanding experience in virtual education, we are creating flexible, innovative educational opportunities that empower students to succeed. Together, we are building on our respective strengths to provide an exceptional learning experience with student success at the center of everything we do.”
People can visit www.lubbockisd.org/LIVE for additional information.
Alana Edgin writes about business for the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal. Got a news tip? Contact her via email at aedgin@lubbockonline.com.
This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: Lubbock ISD, Texas Tech create virtual school program, how to join
