Online High Schools

What you ask? High school online, seriously? Oh yes, and while this might sound like a dream come true for some of you youngsters, make no mistake, the best of the best are rigorous programs, designed for young adults who are assertive and more important, responsible. Staying on track from your Macbook in the comfort of your living room isn’t for everyone. But if you’re a parent seeking an alternative to the traditional brick and mortar school, read on.

Clonlara School

At an annual tuition of $3,650, Clonlara is characterized by its highly supportive learning environment. They take great care in fleshing out the individual interests of each student alongside the educational goals of the parents. Founded back in 1967, their online program understandably arrived much later. Students can be enrolled both full-time or for one semester at a time.

North Dakota Center for Distance Education

Charged at a per course rate ($250), this online site also offers advanced placement courses for $300. Founded like Clonlara, way before the internet was ever likely considered (1935), the ND Center has been a long-respected education provider with a celebrated excellence in computer education, music, English, aerospace and social studies. There is a price differential for in versus out-of-state students, but there are also several scholarship opportunities.   

Sevenstar Academy

Sevenstar is a fantastic online option for those seeking a Christian-based education. Serving from grade 6 to 12, the learning experience here is highly interactive. Teachers work closely with parents, closer than most online education platforms. This is not for everyone, so be forewarned. Sevenstar is a leader in their summer school offerings as well and provide (for those that need it) 10-week credit recovery courses with the objective of increasing GPA or complementing missing credits.

Advantages School International

Serving grades K to 12, Advantages, or ASI to those in the know, is a strong online high school option, but only again for those who are extraordinarily well-focused. Self-paced coursework, challenging curriculum, excellent faculty guidance all makes ASI a clear Top 190 choice when it comes to embarking online with a high school education. Tuition is another strong point with ASI as they have maintained an affordable rate which can be paid in installment plans. There is also a 10% discount for active military and siblings.

Forest Trail Academy

Lastly is another affordable leader, Forest Trail Academy. Known for employing the latest in virtual learning technology, Forest is squarely focused on high school education, with a host of electives that are quite popular among its student and family base. Cool courses such as television production, creative writing, anatomy and physiology are instant hits and the academy is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council.

This is a wide, open field but one that should be investigated with caution. Online high school isn’t for everyone, but those kids who do well, do real well online.