Choosing the best online high school is essential for parents and students. With the increasing popularity of online learning, there are now many options available, making it challenging to identify the best virtual high school program that fits your individual needs.
In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to pick the best online high school. We will cover the essential factors to consider when choosing an online high school, including accreditation, curriculum options, teacher qualifications, class sizes, and tuition fees.
Choosing the Best Online High School
The best online high school is really at your fingertips. However, it’s a big decision and comes with many questions you may not know the answers to.
While you continue searching for an online high school, here are some topics to take a further look at to ensure you’re choosing the best one for your needs.
Accreditation
The first thing to check when choosing an online high school is accreditation. Accreditation is the process by which an independent organization evaluates a school's quality of education and determines if the school meets specific standards. Accreditation assures that the program meets rigorous educational standards.
There are two types of accreditation:
1.) Regional: Regional accreditation is preferred as it is more widely recognized and accepted by colleges and universities. Regional accreditation is granted by one of six regional accrediting bodies that oversee colleges and universities in different regions of the United States.
2.) National: National accreditation is granted by private accrediting agencies and is less widely recognized by colleges and universities. Not all online high schools are accredited, so it is crucial to research their accreditation status before enrolling.
Curriculum Options
The curriculum offered by an online high school should also be a significant consideration. The curriculum should be rigorous and challenging and ideally provide a variety of courses that meet your individual needs and interests.
You should also consider the format of the curriculum. Some online high schools offer self-paced courses, while others have a structured format with live online classes. The format of the curriculum should fit your individual learning style and schedule.
Also, some high schools offer hybrid learning—where you can take online classes while also taking courses on campus. So, it could really be the best of both worlds for some students!
It is essential to check if the curriculum is aligned with state and national standards. This ensures that the courses taught are relevant and meet the academic requirements for college admission.
Teacher Qualifications
The qualifications of the teachers are another essential factor to consider when choosing an online high school. A good online high school should have highly qualified and experienced teachers who hold a teaching degree and possess the skills and expertise to deliver quality online education.
It is also essential to check if the school provides regular training to its teachers to ensure that they are up to date with the latest teaching techniques and technology.
Class Sizes
The class size is another critical factor to consider when choosing an online high school. The ideal class size should be manageable, as this can affect the quality of education and individual attention to each student.
Small class sizes provide more opportunities for interaction between the teacher and students and can enhance the learning experience for everyone. Online high schools with smaller class sizes are also more likely to provide personalized attention and support to students who need it.
Tuition and Fees
Tuition and fees are a significant consideration when choosing an online high school. The fees charged by online high schools can vary, and it is essential to consider the value provided for the tuition fees charged.
Online high schools that offer an affordable tuition fee while providing quality education are ideal. In some cases, online high schools may offer financial aid to students who qualify, so it is worth checking if the school provides any financial aid programs.
Related Article, How Much Does An Online High School Class Cost?
Wrapping Up: Choosing the Best Online High School
Choosing the best online high school can be challenging, and many factors must be considered. Researching the schools' accreditation status, curriculum options, teacher qualifications, class sizes, and tuition fees are essential.
By considering these factors and doing thorough research, you can find an online high school that provides quality education, meets your individual needs, and sets you up for success in the future.
To learn more about your options regarding an online high school, make sure to reach out to us. We offer many different paths to fit the needs of our students, such as a hybrid learning model, entirely online, or full-time on campus.