By: Kathryn Hodgins, Content and Public Relations Specialist, Florida Virtual School

Can students really make friends in an online school? 

It's one of the most common questions we hear from families considering virtual learning. At Florida Virtual School (FLVS), our answer is a resounding yes.

From exciting clubs and engaging virtual events to in-person meetups and student-led activities, FLVS provides a wide range of opportunities for students to connect, collaborate, and create lasting friendships.

Whether your child is taking individual courses through FLVS Flex or is enrolled in one of our Full Time Public Schools (FLVS Full Time), they can choose from a variety of student activities, allowing them to explore their passions with students who have similar interests.

Now that the school year has begun, it is the perfect time to explore all the socialization opportunities available at FLVS. That's why we've created this resource to help you plan and make the most of your student's social experience online.

Available for FLVS Flex and FLVS Full Time students:

Clubs and Activities

With more than 80 student clubs and activities, ranging from robotics and creative writing to coding and art, there's something for every student. Clubs are open to students across all grade levels, Kindergarten-12, in FLVS Full Time and FLVS Flex.

While clubs meet virtually throughout the year, many host in-person events and competitions like our eSports and photography clubs, and Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs).

Check it out: Watch the eSports club members talk about their in-person event, where they played each other in Mario Kart and other online games.

CTSOs, which are available to high school students, are career-focused groups that offer supportive, hands-on environments for students to explore their passions and prepare for the future. Organizations like Future Farmers of America (FFA), Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA), and more connect like-minded students who share similar career goals, helping them build essential skills, gain real-world experience, and grow their professional networks through collaboration with peers and guidance from experienced mentors.

Then, near the end of every school year, we celebrate exceptional student club members during the in-person Club Awards. During this event, students get to meet with their friends, celebrate their achievements, and showcase their talent through performances, ranging from a calming yoga demonstration led by the Mindfulness and Yoga Club to an energetic tumbling and jump showcase by the Cheer Club.

The Elementary American Sign Language (ASL) club performs during the 2025 Club Awards ceremony

Check it out: In 2025, more than 150 students participated in the annual Club Awards Day, showcasing their talents and passions. Watch the highlights.

If your child is interested in joining a FLVS club, don't miss Club Rush, our annual virtual event that allows families to explore all the clubs available. Whether your child is passionate about art, science, leadership, or gaming, Club Rush is their chance to discover new interests, meet fellow students, and find the perfect club for them.

For the 2025-26 school year, Club Rush will be held on the following dates and will be recorded for those who can't attend live. Visit the clubs and activities webpage for the login information.

• 6-12 Club Rush on Thursday, Sept. 18, from 4-6 p.m.

• K-5 Club Rush on Friday, Sept. 19, from 10-11 a.m.

Still have questions about student clubs and activities? Email [email protected].

Available for FLVS Flex Students:

Field trips

Throughout the year, FLVS Flex students have the opportunity to explore real-world learning experiences with in-person field trips across the state. Many of these field trips are organized through specific clubs or activities, and are a chance for students to meet their peers and teachers face-to-face while learning about and exploring exciting destinations.

From exploring history in Florida's oldest city, St. Augustine, to a science-packed adventure at the Orlando Science Center, there are a variety of field trip opportunities for FLVS Flex students in grades K-12.

For example, this spring, our FLVS Flex geography club students went on a field trip to Bonnet Springs Park in Lakeland, where they discovered the natural beauty of the springs and took part in a hands-on lab experience led by a park ranger.

FLVS Flex geography club students take time for a photo while at Bonnet Springs Park during their field trip.

These outings are designed to complement what students are learning in their courses while giving them a chance to socialize, explore, and make memories in a relaxed, engaging environment.

FLVS Flex field trip announcements are posted in Educator, our centralized hub for educational content and communication, by grade or subject areas. To learn more, email [email protected].

Available for FLVS Full Time students

Students enrolled in FLVS Full Time also have a wide range of socialization opportunities available to help them stay connected and engaged.

Regional meetups

FLVS Full Time elementary students make friendship bracelets during a regional meetup.

FLVS Full Time elementary and middle school hosts regional meetups across the state, where students and families can gather in their local communities. These events range from casual park days and beach cleanups to creative crafting sessions and themed playdates. These events are all about connection, and are a great way for students and families to make friends in their area and build a sense of community with their FLVS teachers.

This past spring, the Seminole County region hosted its county meetup at Trotwood Park in Winter Springs. With a large shaded playground, splashpad, pavilions, and large grassy fields, students, parents, and FLVS teachers had a great time interacting and having fun.

“It’s so fun to see my friends because I usually just see them online," said Emily Semenchenko, a FLVS Full Time fifth-grader. "I really like to come to these, because I like to communicate and play with them.”

FLVS Full Time elementary students enjoy the games and activities with a parachute during the recent Seminole County region meetup.

Besides playing on the playground together, students also made friendship bracelets, colored, enjoyed popsicles, and played games with a giant, colorful parachute, organized by the FLVS Full Time elementary teachers.

“My children have met many friends through FLVS,” said Greequel Simpson, parent of a fifth and eighth grader in FLVS Full Time. “They love to come to the meetups to see them (their friends), and as a parent, I encourage them to keep in touch with their friends from FLVS. Due to the relationships we've built at  the meetups, we continue to see their friends even outside of organized events.”

Check it out: See what some of our FLVS Full Time elementary school students have to say about the Seminole County meetup.

College Tours

FLVS Full Time high school students have the opportunity to attend in-person visits to statewide colleges and universities that allow them to visit campuses alongside their peers, building connections with fellow students and families. Examples of schools students visited this year include the University of Central Florida, Florida Polytechnic University, University of Florida, Flagler College, and more. During these tours, students can get a real feel for campus life and future possibilities.

Field trips

FLVS Full Time students have the opportunity to take their learning beyond the screen through a variety of engaging field trips throughout the school year. These in-person field trips are designed to bring students together in fun, educational settings across the state, while building friendships and memories.

Here are just a few examples of past FLVS Full Time field trips:

Elementary school field trip at Wahoo Bay

In March 2025, FLVS Full Time elementary students snorkeled at Wahoo Bay in Pompano Beach, where they dove for shells and came face-to-face with vibrant marine life in its natural habitat. Students had a blast learning about native Florida sea life and trying new and fun activities together.

FLVS Full Time elementary students snorkel at Wahoo Bay in Pompano Beach.

SeaWorld middle school field trip

Each year, FLVS Full Time middle school students have the chance to step out from behind their computers and come together for an unforgettable day at SeaWorld. This annual field trip is filled with exciting adventures, hands-on learning, and meaningful connections. From thrilling rides to fascinating marine life exhibits, it is a perfect blend of fun, education, and community.

A FLVS Full Time middle school student enjoys the penguin exhibit at SeaWorld during a recent school field trip.

All field trips and meetups for FLVS Full Time students are included in the weekly newsletter sent each Sunday. If you have specific questions, we recommend reaching out to any of your teachers or emailing our Student Activities Manager at [email protected].

FLVS Foundation-hosted events

As part of its mission to expand access to high-quality online education, the FLVS Foundation funds a variety of activities each year for all FLVS students. These events, which include the Artful Expressions Showcase, also foster meaningful connections. To stay up to date on these events, follow the FLVS Foundation on Facebook.

Now it’s time to get involved! 

At FLVS, socialization isn't an afterthought. It's a core part of the student experience. Whether students are crafting with classmates, competing in club competitions, or chatting during a club meeting, there are endless ways to connect, grow, and thrive. Through field trips, clubs, meetups, and more, FLVS students enjoy a vibrant, connected school life that goes far beyond the screen.

Keep an eye out for updates from your teachers and school communications, exciting things are coming your way! And don't miss Club Rush on September 18 and 19, it’s your chance to explore clubs and meet new friends.

Whether you're into gaming, art, leadership, or just want to hang out, there's something for everyone. Let’s make this an unforgettable school year.