About Us

RVA graduates

Principal's Welcome

Welcome to the 2026-27 school year! I am honored to serve as principal of Robbinsdale Academy-Highview and Robbinsdale Virtual Academy (RVA). Whether you are returning or joining one of our school communities for the first time, we are excited to welcome you and begin another year of learning and growth together.

At Robbinsdale Academy-Highview and RVA, we recognize that every student's educational journey is unique. Whether learning alongside us in person or virtually, our goal is to provide a supportive, inclusive, and engaging environment where students feel known, valued, and empowered to succeed. We meet students where they are, celebrate their strengths, and help them build the confidence, skills, and perseverance they need to reach their goals and prepare for what comes next.

Our dedicated staff understands that meaningful relationships are at the heart of learning. We are committed to supporting the academic, social, and emotional needs of every student while creating opportunities for them to discover their strengths, overcome challenges, and take ownership of their future.

Families are essential partners in that work. By building strong connections between home and school, we can surround students with the encouragement, support, and opportunities they need to thrive. We look forward to working alongside you and celebrating the growth and accomplishments—both big and small—that make each student's journey meaningful.

Thank you for entrusting us with your child's education. We are excited for a year filled with learning, growth, achievement, and connection, and we can't wait to see what our students accomplish.

Together in partnership,

Shaunece Smith
Principal, Robbinsdale Academy-Highview and Robbinsdale Virtual Academy (RVA)


 

RVA's Leadership Team

Shaunece Smith

Shaunece Smith
Principal
763-504-8701
Shaunece_Smith@rdale.org

Patrick Burrage

Patrick Burrage
Assistant Principal
763-504-8704
Patrick_Burrage@rdale.org

FLIPPING THE SCRIPT

Robbinsdale Virtual Academy (RVA) gives students in grades 6-12 the flexibility to make school work for their lives—without sacrificing engaging learning, strong relationships, or access to dedicated teachers.

Students experience relevant, rigorous coursework in a virtual environment while receiving live, one-to-one access to teachers every school day. This personalized approach allows students to take greater ownership of when, where, and how they learn while building the skills to become confident, independent digital learners.

RVA's flexibility can be a great fit for students who are:

  • Balancing athletic training, work, or other commitments.
  • Managing health or personal needs from the comfort of home.
  • Looking for a learning environment tailored to their individual needs.
  • Pursuing college courses while completing high school.
  • Seeking a strong partnership among students, families, and teachers.

Being virtual doesn't mean learning alone. RVA intentionally creates opportunities for students to connect with teachers and peers, build relationships, and strengthen their social-emotional skills.

At RVA, students have the flexibility to believe in themselves, belong to a supportive school community, and become thoughtful, confident learners prepared for what comes next.

School Improvement Plan (SIP)