Partnering with virtual schools

In-person events mean opportunities for your studio!

What is Stride K12?

Stride operates virtual charter schools in 29 states serving over 3 million students. These are full-time online public and private schools where students learn from home but need in-person gathering opportunities for socialization and hands-on learning experiences.

These schools organize:

• Monthly field trips and outings

• "Strider Squads" - local community gatherings for families

• In-person activities and clubs

• Social events where virtual school families can meet face-to-face

Why your studio is perfect for these programs:

• Hands-on art education (curriculum tie-in)

• Safe, supervised indoor environment

• Social connection for students who learn online

• Flexible scheduling that works for virtual school families

• Age-appropriate activities K-12

How to get your studio on their list

STEP 1: Find your local Stride K12 school

Go to www.k12.com and use the school finder, or search:

• "[Your State] Virtual Academy K12"

• Example: "California Virtual Academy"

STEP 2: Contact the school directly

Look for contacts related to:

• Field trips or outings coordinator

• Community partnerships

• Student activities or clubs

• Family engagement coordinator

STEP 3: Use this email template

Subject: Partnership Opportunity - Pottery Painting Studio for Field Trips & Family Outings

Hi [Name],

I'm reaching out on behalf of [Studio Name], a pottery painting studio in [City]. We'd love to partner with [School Name] as a venue for your field trips, Strider Squad gatherings, and in-person family events.

Our studio offers an ideal experience for virtual school families:

• Educational value: Hands-on art instruction (connects to visual arts curriculum)

• Social connection: Students create together and build community

• Safe environment: Supervised, indoor, climate-controlled space

• Flexible scheduling: We can accommodate groups during weekdays when traditional schools are in session

• All ages welcome: Activities appropriate for elementary through high school

We can customize experiences for different age groups and offer group pricing for school events.

Would you be the right person to discuss adding us to your approved field trip venues, or could you direct me to who coordinates these partnerships?

I'd love to schedule a quick call or visit to talk about how we can host your families for a fun and creative outing!

Thank you for your time,

[Your name]

[Studio name]

[Contact info]

Tips for Success

✓ Emphasize the educational + social benefits (not just "fun craft activity")

✓ Mention flexible weekday availability (their families need options when traditional schools are in session)

✓ Offer to host a tour so coordinators can see your space

✓ Be ready with group pricing and capacity numbers

✓ Follow up if you don't hear back - these schools run lean and staff may be overwhelmed