StarCenter Athletic Academy

Welcome to the StarCenter Athletic Academy, proudly supported by The Dallas Stars.

Our mission is to advance the development of our athletes in mind, body, leadership, and character through rigorous and engaging academic programs, innovative athletic training, inclusive community engagement, and an emphasis on individual development. Our program seeks to inspire participants to be the best they can be while committing themselves to becoming a positive contributor in our community of excellence. 

We will prepare our athletes both academically and athletically to reach their highest level in the game they love. Our program will enrich the lives of our athletes and will allow them to find success in the classroom and beyond.

PROGRAM GOALS:

  • We will create a culture of excellence that will focus on high academic achievement in the classroom and individual player development in athletics.
  • Academics is a gateway to high level sports – we will create an engaging academic program that will support and enrich our online platforms.
  • We will create an academic program that will provide innovative, participant-centered activities beyond the core courses which will include, but will not be limited to, community service, nutrition and health, personal fitness, leadership, creative and critical thinking, and understanding sports as a business. 
  • We will create a safe and dynamic academy environment with structures and systems that will support individual players and allow them to build on their strengths, develop and nurture their areas of need, and reach their full potential. Our program will prepare our athletes for life after high school.

We at StarCenter Athletic Academy are truly honored to begin the journey of excellence with your athletes. We will all work collaboratively with our hockey community to give all participants a very rewarding program that will provide a positive experience and individual growth.

On-ice and classroom sessions will be held at Children's Health StarCenter McKinney, Farmers Branch, and Plano. For more information on the StarCenter Athletic Academy, please email Academy Director Michael Davies or fill out this form. To register, click HERE.

For the 2026–2027 academic year, StarCenter Athletic Academy (SCAA) will collaborate with Plano Independent School District (Plano ISD) to offer the Virtual Academy Program to all SCAA registrants in grades 9–12.  Through this partnership, student-athletes will have access to a comprehensive and structured virtual learning environment that is designed to balance rigorous academic expectations with the demands of high-level athletic training.  The program provides flexibility while maintaining accountability, ensuring students can remain focused on their educational progress without compromising their athletic development.

The Virtual Academy Program will be available to eligible student-athletes training at the McKinney, Farmers Branch, and Plano StarCenter locations and is open to all qualifying hockey and figure skating participants.  Students enrolled in the program will attend classes virtually through Plano ISD and will be officially enrolled at Plano West Senior High School or designated feeder schools, depending on grade level and academic placement.  While instruction will be delivered in a fully virtual format, students will remain connected to their school communities through Plano ISD resources, support services, and extracurricular engagement opportunities. 

Self-paced progress with target dates allows students to balance learning with work, athletics, or travel.

Participation in home campus extracurricular activities, including clubs, organizations, and events such as prom & graduation. 

Texas certified teachers, AP course options, NCAA eligibility options, and curriculum aligned with TEKS standards

LEARNING DESIGNED FOR TODAY'S STUDENTS

Click on each of the columns below to learn more. 

For questions about enrollment, eligibility, or program options, please contact Academy Director Michael Davies.

REGISTER with us and get your own personal Plano ISD concierge to help you through your journey!

REGISTRATION

Plano Virtual Academy provides two instructional options for students in grades 9–12:

Full-Time Virtual Learning
Students complete their coursework online through structured lessons facilitated by Plano ISD teachers. Courses include regular interaction, clear expectations, and ongoing feedback to help students stay engaged and on pace.

Hybrid Learning
Students split their instructional time between online courses and in-person classes at a Plano ISD campus. This option allows students to maintain campus connections while benefiting from the flexibility of virtual instruction.

Both options are designed to support a wide range of student needs, including academic focus, personal scheduling demands, and individualized learning preferences.

Courses are taught by certified Plano ISD teachers using a district-approved online curriculum aligned to Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). Teachers actively monitor student progress, provide instruction and feedback, and support students throughout the school year.

Support services include:

  • Academic planning and ongoing progress monitoring
  • Targeted tutoring and instructional intervention
  • Special education and Section 504 services
  • College, career, and wellness counseling
  • Ongoing technical and platform support

Students must have daily access to reliable internet and a district-approved device. Plano ISD will provide device access and technical assistance as needed.

Orientation sessions are required for students and parents to ensure familiarity with platforms, expectations, and communication tools before the start of coursework.

Regular communication between families, teachers, and counselors is essential to student success. Parents and guardians can monitor coursework, grades, and attendance through district systems and will receive ongoing updates throughout the year.

Who May Apply
Plano Virtual Academy is open to high school students entering grades 9–12 who meet Plano ISD and State of Texas eligibility requirements. Enrollment is based on capacity and program availability.

Residency Requirements

  • Students must be Texas residents at the time of application

Proof of residency may include:

  • A recent utility bill
  • A current lease agreement or mortgage statement

Additional Enrollment Considerations

  • Students must be eligible for enrollment in grades 9–12
  • Academic history will be reviewed to ensure readiness
  • Attendance history will be considered
  • Parent or guardian identification is required

External Applicants Must Provide:

  • Current proof of residency (gas, electric, or water bill)
  • Official attendance records for the 2025–2026 school year
  • Official transcript with current schedule and grades
  • Declaration of Student Discipline Form for the 2025–2026 school year (signed by school administrator)
  • STAAR/EOC results
    https://www.texasassessment.gov www.texasassessment.gov
  • Special Education / 504 IEP (if applicable)

Plano Virtual Academy is designed to provide flexibility while maintaining structure, accountability, and meaningful educator support.

Students who are successful in the program typically:

  • Can manage time and coursework independently with guidance
  • Communicate regularly with teachers and counselors
  • Are prepared to engage in a structured online environment

Families unsure which option best fits their student’s needs are encouraged to connect with the Plano Virtual Academy team at virtualacademy@pisd.eduvirtualacademy@pisd.edu for individualized guidance.