Triangle Math and Science Academy (TMSA) has received approval from the North Carolina Charter Schools Review Board to launch a fully remote charter academy aimed at expanding access to its college-preparatory education model. The new initiative, named TMSA Virtual, will begin enrolling students for the 2026–2027 academic year and will serve pupils across North Carolina in grades 7 through 12.
The approval marks a significant step for the charter school network as it looks to broaden its reach beyond the physical campuses it currently operates across the state. By offering a remote learning platform, the academy aims to provide greater flexibility for families who cannot access existing TMSA schools due to geographic limitations.
Initially, the virtual academy will open with a cohort of 170 students in grades eight through ten. According to the academy’s plan, enrolment will gradually expand to approximately 250 students covering grades seven through twelve in the following phase of development.
School leaders say the new remote programme will mirror the academic standards already established across the TMSA network. The virtual model will offer the same college-preparatory curriculum while allowing students to learn in a flexible digital environment.
Flexible learning model designed for diverse student needs
TMSA Virtual will combine live teacher-led instruction with a range of flexible elective courses and advanced academic offerings. The programme will also incorporate structured student support systems, including success coaching designed to guide students through academic planning and personal development.
The academy says the model is intended to serve students whose schedules or circumstances require alternative learning pathways. This includes student-athletes, musicians, performers and learners living in rural areas where access to specialised educational programmes may be limited.
In addition, the remote programme may appeal to academically advanced students seeking expanded coursework options while maintaining flexibility in how and when they study.
Despite operating online, the school intends to maintain connections with the wider TMSA community. Students enrolled in the virtual academy will be able to participate in a range of activities hosted by physical campuses throughout North Carolina.
These opportunities include academic competitions, school clubs, fairs and selected extracurricular events. Where appropriate, students may also access sports programmes and collaborative events organised by the broader TMSA network.
School leaders believe that blending digital instruction with opportunities for real-world engagement will help ensure that students remain connected to peers and the wider school community.
Leadership emphasises human connection in digital education
Speaking about the new programme, Ben Karaduman, Superintendent of the TMSA Public Charter Schools network, emphasised that the virtual format will still prioritise personal engagement between teachers and students.
“Technology may deliver the platform, but people create the experience. TMSA Virtual will be a virtual school with an in-person feel,” said Ben Karaduman, Superintendent of the TMSA Public Charter Schools network.
The initiative builds on nearly two decades of experience operating charter schools within the state. Over that period, the network has developed a reputation for delivering academically focused programmes with strong emphasis on science, mathematics and college preparation.
By introducing a fully virtual charter academy, TMSA aims to extend its educational model to families across North Carolina who might otherwise face barriers to accessing its schools.
The leadership team says maintaining rigorous academic standards will remain central to the virtual programme. Alongside core coursework, the academy plans to promote strong student engagement through teacher interaction, structured guidance and participation in wider school activities.
Officials also believe the model reflects broader changes in education as digital learning continues to evolve. While online instruction expanded rapidly during the pandemic years, many institutions are now exploring structured remote programmes that combine flexibility with established academic frameworks.
Enrolment expected to open soon
TMSA has indicated that enrolment for the new virtual academy will begin in the near future, with further details expected to be released in the coming months.
Families interested in the programme are encouraged to monitor announcements from the school network regarding application timelines and admission procedures.
Once operational, TMSA Virtual is expected to serve students across the state, providing an additional option for families seeking a charter school education delivered through a flexible online format while remaining connected to the wider TMSA school community.
