Frequently Asked Questions

New Code Academy Elementary is a full-time online public school for Minnesota students in grades K–5. We’re part of Bloomington Public Schools and offer daily live instruction, hands-on activities, and a certified curriculum designed to help young learners feel calm, confident, and connected.

Yes! We’re an approved Minnesota public school program. Students follow Minnesota academic standards, receive grades and feedback, and participate in statewide testing—just like in a traditional classroom, but in a supportive online format.

Any Minnesota student in grades K–5 can enroll at no cost. We welcome students from across the state who are seeking a flexible, high-quality online learning experience.

Yes! New Code Academy is completely tuition-free. As a public school, we don’t charge for enrollment. Some optional activities (like special field trips) may include a small cost.

Families outside Bloomington fill out an open enrollment form and select New Code Academy. Bloomington families can request an intra-district transfer. Need help? Our team will guide you step-by-step.

Visit our website enrollment page to get started.

We follow the Bloomington Public Schools calendar, including traditional start/end dates and holiday breaks.

New Code Academy is part of Bloomington Public Schools — not a private or for-profit provider. That means:

• All teachers are Minnesota-licensed BPS educators
• Our curriculum is developed in-house and aligned to Minnesota standards
• Live instruction is the foundation, not optional
• Families receive access to all district services: special education, English Language support, school social worker, and more

If you’re comparing options, we’re happy to talk through differences so you can choose the best fit.

We serve a diverse group of students who benefit from flexibility and support. This includes:

• learners needing a calmer, more consistent school day
• students with school anxiety or sensory overwhelm
• advanced or high-achieving learners seeking challenge
• multilingual families (including Somali and Spanish speakers)
• families seeking flexibility with strong teacher relationships
• families with complex schedules or medical needs
• students experiencing houselessness
• families interested in computer science-infused curriculum

If this sounds like your child, you're in the right place!

We want every student to thrive. If online school doesn’t meet your child’s needs, we’ll help you explore other Bloomington Public Schools options.

All our teachers are Minnesota-licensed educators employed by Bloomington Public Schools. They specialize in online teaching and lead daily live classes, small groups, and 1:1 check-ins. They create a warm, predictable environment where students feel supported and seen.

Our curriculum is developed by Bloomington Public Schools and aligned to state standards. It emphasizes hands-on learning, literacy, and math foundations—and includes integrated computer science thinking from Kindergarten on. We believe all students deserve an education that builds problem-solving, creativity, and digital confidence.

Most students spend 3.5 to 5 hours per day engaged in learning, including live classes and interactive work. Teachers ensure a healthy mix of on-screen and off-screen activities—like projects, reading, or using physical materials we send home.

In early grades, families often help with routines like logging in or tracking the schedule—but kids become independent quickly! We teach students how to manage their time and tech. Our youngest learners surprise their families with how confident they become.

Yes! Our students build relationships through:
Morning meetings and class discussions
Small-group learning and clubs
Lunch bunch and other activities during the school day
Schoolwide events like spirit days and talent shows

We’re more than a Zoom link—we’re a real school with a strong sense of belonging.

Students receive grades, progress updates, and personalized feedback from teachers on assignments, participation, and growth. We follow Bloomington district guidelines and state assessment requirements.

You provide a quiet(ish) learning space, and we’ll help provide the rest. All New Code students receive a Chromebook, and access to the internet if needed. We provide support for Seesaw and district tech tools, and send home all physical materials.

Yes — all services available in person are also delivered online, including:

• Specialized instruction
• Speech, OT, and PT
• Behavioral and executive-function support
• Social work

Services follow each student’s IEP and are provided through individual and small-group sessions.

We create a low-stress, highly structured environment with predictable routines, movement breaks, and visual supports. Many families report that online school feels safer and more manageable for children with autism, ADHD, anxiety, or sensory sensitivities. We believe this method of learning supports EVERY student, no matter their needs.

Absolutely! Teachers provide curriculum extensions, deeper projects, and enrichment options for students ready to go beyond grade-level expectations. Flexible pacing allows students to move ahead where they’re ready.

Yes—we proudly serve a diverse community and offer:

• English Language (EL) services
• Translated communication
• Interpreters for conferences and IEPs
• Family-friendly platforms like Seesaw

Every family is welcomed and supported.