Some critics of virtual schools say they don't have a major characteristic students need - a social atmosphere.

But a meet and greet in Stevens Point Tuesday for the Wisconsin Connections Academy is proving otherwise.

More than 35 families, whose kindergarten through eighth grade students attend the academy, got together to have their pictures taken, get school supplies and have a picnic.

"I think it's sort of fun because you get to know your classmates and meet a lot of friends," says Bailey Stumpner, a virtual school student.

The students and teachers from all over the state also get together for field trips throughout the year.

The virtual academy is run through the Appleton Area School District, with 10 teachers serving nearly 500 students.

The academy starts school on September 5.