Published 1 day ago • loading... • Updated 1 day ago
Top Five Questions to Ask an Online School
Families should compare program format, accreditation, outcomes and social opportunities before enrolling, as asynchronous options can require more parental oversight.
Families transitioning to online K-12 schooling must ask critical questions to evaluate the growing range of educational choices available to them. "Asking the right questions is essential to navigating and evaluating the growing range of choices," experts note.
Online programs offer asynchronous, synchronous, or hybrid formats, each serving different family needs. Synchronous and hybrid models require attendance at specific times for collaboration, while asynchronous programs let students design their own daily and weekly schedules.
Accreditation through organizations like Cognia or the Western Association ensures schools meet rigorous standards for educational excellence. These credentials serve as threshold indicators of quality, helping parents evaluate a school's reputation with United States colleges.
Students at Laurel Springs School access diverse social opportunities, including 90+ virtual clubs, in-person field trips, and prom. Laurel Springs waives the $300 registration fee for families who enroll within two weeks of attending a Virtual Open House.
Meaningful friendships and strong academic achievements, including graduation rates and higher GPAs, provide clear indicators of program quality. Parents should request School Profiles to evaluate how schools support students in shaping their schedules and achieving academic success.