Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to questions we hear most often from you!
What does a typical day look like?
LIVE classes run Monday through Thursday, led by credentialed teachers, with time built in for independent practice. Fridays are set aside for independent work completed with your Parent-Teacher. The balance shifts by grade: elementary students have shorter live blocks paired with hands-on practice at home, while middle and high schoolers follow a fuller daily schedule that includes electives and enrichment. You can see sample schedules for each level on our program pages.
Is JCS LIVE really free?
Yes. JCS LIVE is a tuition-free public charter school, so there is no cost to enroll. We provide everything your student needs — a secular curriculum, a Chromebook and online resources, books and materials, field trips, and dedicated funding for enrichment — at no cost to your family.
Which areas do you serve?
We serve families across San Diego, Riverside, Orange, and Imperial counties. If you live in any of these counties, your student is eligible to enroll.
Is this one of those “log in and click through lessons all day” schools?
No — and it’s one of the first things families notice about us. We don’t use a canned, one-size-fits-all program where students click through lessons on their own. Our teachers plan and deliver live instruction, and students learn with real books, manipulatives, hands-on projects, and teacher-created lessons. It’s real teaching and real relationships, not plug-and-play.
What’s included with enrollment?
Everything your student needs, at no cost: secular curriculum; a Chromebook and online resources; books and materials chosen for your student’s plan; weekly Learning Centers and enrichment days; vetted enrichment lessons such as karate, sports, and dance taught by approved specialists; field trips; and community events.
Who teaches my child? Are teachers credentialed?
Your child learns from credentialed teachers who lead live instruction and partner closely with your family throughout the year.
What is my role as a Learning Coach, especially in TK–5?
Parents and guardians serve as parent-teachers, partnering with teachers to support learning at home. In the younger grades that means helping your student stay on track with independent practice — especially on Fridays — and supporting hands-on activities. TK students work on thematic packets with their parent-teacher for each core subject, with the option to join live classes for arts and electives. Teachers provide the lesson plans, instruction, and guidance; you provide the daily encouragement and support.
What about students with IEPs or 504 plans?
JCS LIVE is a California public charter school required by law to provide a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) to all eligible students. We serve students with IEPs and Section 504 plans, delivering all special education and related services virtually through our Student Support Team.
Are there clubs, field trips, and social opportunities?
Yes. Beyond academics, students can take part in clubs, field trips, service projects, workshops, special events, weekly Learning Centers, and community events. In middle and high school, Fridays include optional opportunities like field trips, clubs, and enrichment activities. Connection and belonging are part of the design — not just screen time.
What happens after I submit the interest form?
After you submit the form, a member of our team will reach out to walk you through the next steps and answer your questions. An enrollment specialist will contact you within 48 business hours of your submission.