OHL Announces New Virtual Education Partnership with Ontario Virtual School
TORONTO — The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) has named Ontario Virtual School (OVS) its official virtual education provider, formalizing a relationship that has already supported student-athletes across the league.
The partnership gives OHL players access to OVS’s self-paced online courses, which allow students to begin and complete coursework at any time — a model suited to the travel, practice and game schedules of major junior hockey. Several OHL clubs and academic advisors have used the platform in advance of the league-wide integration.
The two organizations will also explore expanding OVS’s tutoring services to OHL student-athletes.
“We’re thrilled to have partnered with OVS as our official virtual education provider,” said Julie Kuiken, Director of Education Services for the Ontario Hockey League. “Even prior to the integration, our member teams and academic advisors have shared nothing but positive feedback — from the ease of registration and student-friendly platform to strong guidance supports and quick mark turnaround. We’re especially excited to explore their tutoring services further, which will give our student-athletes even more tools to succeed academically while pursuing their hockey careers.”
Founded in 2010, Ontario Virtual School was built on the principle that every student can reach their academic potential when engaged and active in their learning. OVS offers a model that lets students start and complete courses at any time while maintaining control over their own pace, meeting the needs of students in Ontario and around the world.
“We’re incredibly proud to partner with the OHL, an organization that takes its players’ development as seriously off the ice as on it,” said Charlie Iscoe, CEO of Ontario Virtual School. “Balancing elite hockey with academics is demanding – and as the OHL’s official online school, Ontario Virtual School gives players the flexibility to earn an accredited Ontario diploma around practices, travel, and game days, without compromising their education. Together, we’re giving every player a clear path to graduation and all the bright opportunities beyond.”
“Our goal is not simply to help students earn their credits, but to provide the academic guidance, structure, and support they need to become confident, successful young adults,” added Vinay Aggarwal, Principal of Ontario Virtual School. “We firmly believe that being an elite athlete and being a successful student should not be competing priorities.
“It is a privilege to play a role in developing the whole student — on the ice, in the classroom, and ultimately in life.”
Testimonials
“The Barrie Colts place a strong emphasis on both athletic and academic achievement. Ontario Virtual School has helped our players successfully manage the unique demands of junior hockey by providing flexible, high-quality educational opportunities. Their support has been instrumental in ensuring our athletes continue to thrive both on and off the ice.”
— Rob Ferguson, Manager of Team Services & Education, Barrie Colts Hockey Club
“OVS gives me the flexibility I need to succeed both on the ice and in the classroom,” McCormick said. “Being able to work around my hockey schedule helped me stay on track academically without sacrificing my commitment to the Colts.”
— Jonah McCormick, Forward, Barrie Colts Hockey Club
