Virtual High Schools have been moving to the forefront of the distance learning landscape over the recent years with the growing popularity of online learning. Until now, “night school” and charter schools were the only alternatives to attending a full-time program at a local high school. These up and coming virtual high schools are opening the doors for families across the country whose children are in need of an alternative. They’re bringing education to those children who have, perhaps, not been successful in traditional learning environments or who are served better in non-traditional environments. These learners include: home-schooled students, full-time wage earners, students with health or physical challenges; and those who may have struggled socially in a traditional school. Virtual schools also provide a place for homeschooled students or those that have barriers to attending physical school, such as those live in remote areas or have disabilities. It even gives students in a program at a traditional high school a way to make up for lost credits.
Choosing an online high school is a challenge. Parents need to find a virtual program that offers an accredited diploma and provides academic support for students, all without breaking the bank. Asking the right questions will help you find the online high school that best meets your needs. Here are some important credentials when reviewing your potential school:
1. Accreditation. An online high school that is regionally accredited, like Penn Foster’s high school program, will have the widest acceptance.
2. Curriculum. Your online high school should have a time-tested curriculum that meets your child’s academic needs.
3. Quality of instructors. Be wary of online high schools that hire teachers without a college diploma or teaching experience. Teachers should be credentialed, know how to work with teenagers, and be comfortable with computers.
4. School’s history. Online schools come and go. Choosing a school that has been around for longer, like Penn Foster High School, can help you avoid the trouble of trying to transfer schools at a later date.
5. Graduate percentage. You can learn a lot by an online high school’s graduation track record. If a large percentage of students drop out, you may want to reconsider.
6. Additional help for struggling students. If your child is struggling, you need to know that help is available.
Are you or your child thinking of enrolling in a virtual high school? What benefits/drawbacks do you see with online high schools?
Sources:
http://distancelearninginmo.blogspot.com/
http://distancelearn.about.com/od/virtualhighschools/a/OnlineHighQ.htm