Gwinnett County schools announced recently that beginning with the next school year, students will be offered a new way to earn a diploma -- online.

Gwinnett Online Campus, which has been available for summer school and 7th period classes for the past 11 years, has expanded to offer classes full time beginning August 2011.

"Building on this past success and prompted by high levels of interest from students, Gwinnett Online Campus is now ready to serve students on a full time basis," said Dr. Steve Flynth, associate superintendent for School Leadership and Operational Support in a news release.

Students may register for the new year now through Feb. 28. Information on the new online campus including how to register is located on the school's Web site at gwinnettonlinecampus.com.

The new virtual campus will be available to students in grades nine through 12, and students currently in grades eight through 11 are eligible to enroll. Although prospective students do not have to be currently enrolled in a Gwinnett County school, they must be a resident of the county.

Students are offered the same classes that are taught at traditional high schools and are required to participate in class discussions, turn in homework and meet deadlines. To attend, students will need a computer and reliable Internet access.

Three tuition-free online classes are offered in what are termed as "mini-semesters" which begin in August, October, January and March and students have the chance to take an additional class for a fee which will give them a chance to graduate earlier.

Those enrolled in the Online Campus must attend class daily by logging in and students and teachers will communicate daily through phone calls, virtual classrooms, discussion boards and e-mail.

Dr. Christoper Ray, the current principal of Grayson Elementary has been named principal of Gwinnett County Online Campus. Until another principal is selected, Ray will continue his duties at Grayson until a replacement is named. Ray began his tenure with the Gwinnett County School system as a fifth-trade teacher at Knight Elementary. He holds a doctorate degree in educational leadership from Nova Southeastern University.

The Online Campus, which is seeking charter status with the Georgia Department of Education, will open as a fully accredited high school in August.