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Private Vs. Public Online High School
If you have been researching home education options for your kid, you may have noticed that the availability of online learning options differs widely from state to state. While state legislation plays a crucial role in providing access to public online course options, digital learning is emerging not only in private school course catalogs but also in the introduction of entirely online private schools.
While to most parents, this is an unfamiliar idea, online private school is an excellent choice for some families. The following summarizes the primary differences between public and private online schools—and some of the many reasons why you may want to consider enrolling your kid in an online private school.
- Residency and Stability—While online public schools require students to live within certain geographical boundaries, an online private school, such as High School of America, may be available in any state and country. Some families opt for virtual private school just because a public online program is not available in their location. For families that often relocate for employment or military duty overseas, selecting online private schools helps ensure that their kid receives a complete, high-quality, uninterrupted education.
- Affordable Tuition—Just like brick-and-mortar private schools, online private schools are not sponsored by the state, county, or school district. Although parents pay tuition, the cost is often significantly more affordable than tuition for a traditional private school. Additionally, some online private schools offer discounts for multiple children and military families.
- Individual or Summer Courses—An online private school may permit students enrolled in other schools to take individual courses—possibly something not offered by their own school—during the traditional school year. Also, a private school may provide a variety of summer courses, enabling students to enhance their reading or math skills, improve their transcripts for college, get ahead or catch up on earning credits, or recover credits.
- Flexible Scheduling—Online private school learners enjoy a higher level of schedule flexibility, so they can chase personal interests that might not be possible with the “bell schedule” of a bricks-and-mortar school. Learners can use this flexibility to pursue competitive athletics, performing arts, internships, part-time jobs, scouting, volunteering, or family time. The opportunities are unlimited!
- Fewer Restrictions—An online private school does not answer to a state or district, so it may not necessitate state testing. In addition, many provide students with the ability to enroll on a part-time basis or to take more courses than usual to graduate early. To be sure that your learner will receive a well-rounded and accountable education, choose an online private school that provides a highly-regarded, rigorous curriculum and is accredited by a recognized educational institution.
Just like online public school, online private school is not right for every family. But for some, it’s a fantastic fit that transforms a kid’s view of learning—and improves family life. These benefits make high quality, online private schools an excellent choice for parents who want to be involved in their child’s education.
