Plans to create a fully online academy in the Johnson City Schools system were in place even before the COVID-19 outbreak forced students and teachers to remote classrooms. And if thereâs a bright side to the pandemic, said Superintendent Steve Barnett, itâs that it did allow the system to refine and troubleshoot its approach to remote learning before officially launching its online school. More than 600 students have expressed interest in the Johnson City Virtual Academy, which will start in August. School officials have currently limited the online school to grades 5-12. Barnett doesnât, however, expect enrollment for the virtual academy will be that large in the first year. He anticipates 200-300 students will ultimately meet the systemâs expectations for success in a virtual format.