Is online school right for my child?

When it comes to finding school/life balance, it’s hard to top online programs where flexibility is front and center. Most virtual schools set weekly requirements for students, but allow them to create their own schedules and complete tasks on their own time. Plus, schoolwork can be done at home, at Grandma or Grandpa’s house, overseas, or even on the road to a tournament, exhibition, or competition.

Because of the flexible scheduling and personalization, online schools are popular among young athletes and actors. They’re also a good fit for kids with learning differences, whether you have a child with special needs or a gifted child wanting to work at a faster pace. Students pursuing jobs or internships, and those with health issues may also find that online school works better for them. Other families are simply drawn to the idea of having more free time outside of classwork to join clubs, do volunteer work, focus on hobbies, and spend time together.

How does online learning work for K-12?

Virtual schools are designed to give kids a truly customized educational experience, with the goal of the school fitting the student—instead of the student having to fit into the school. This is often accomplished by allowing students to work at their own pace and around their own schedules.

Some online schools offer self-paced curriculums where work is done independently, while others may offer the option for live instruction. PA Cyber offers both, along with one-on-one support from easily-accessed teachers and advisors. This individualized help can be really meaningful for young learners, as well as older kids who are starting to manage their own schedules and course loads more independently.

Many families choose to round-out their virtual programming with in-person extracurriculars available through their school or out in the community. Families can also look for online schools with hybrid formats. PA Cyber, for example, has 9 regional offices that serve as hubs for enrollment events, orientations, and year-round social and extracurricular activities (even a prom!). PA Cyber students can also enjoy 70 clubs and workshops included in the program.

How much does online school cost?

Like in-person public education, public online schools do not charge tuition. That’s right—public online schools are free to all Pennsylvania K-12 students! At some virtual public programs like PA Cyber, students are even given laptops, printers, textbooks, and other necessary support materials free-of-charge.

Online private schools have their own requirements and typically do require tuition. Make sure to ask about costs if you’re interested in applying to any private program.

Why is online school free for Pennsylvania students?

Each year, National School Choice Week celebrates the 1.7 million Pennsylvania students who have access to the right educational fit at no cost because of school choice. We’ve provided this information about choosing an online school with the support of our sponsor Pennsylvania Cyber Online School. Founded in 2000, PA Cyber is a free online charter school accredited by the Middle States Association that welcomes all K-12 kids across Pennsylvania.

For more information on PA Cyber and the unique benefits of an online education, visit pacyber.org or call (724) 643-1180. You can start the enrollment process here.

Photo and video courtesy of PA Cyber