No one cares about your child’s education more than you do. If you’re exploring alternatives to traditional public schooling, you might be considering online options. In today’s digital age, students can access quality education from anywhere. Depending on your location, public online school programs might be available, but private online high schools are accessible to families worldwide. Understanding the main differences can help you make an informed choice for your child.
Why Switch to Online-Only Schooling?
Many students choose online high school for reasons that go beyond academics. Here are some of the most common motivations for switching:
- Flexible Scheduling Needs: Students with packed schedules, including athletes, performers, or those with jobs, often thrive with the freedom to set their study hours.
- Personalized Learning Environment: Students who need a quieter, self-paced environment can focus better without classroom distractions.
- Health and Safety Considerations: For students managing health challenges or wanting a safer environment, online school provides an adaptable solution.
- Accelerated Learning Paths: High achievers often want to graduate early or earn dual credits. Online programs can help motivated students reach those goals faster.
These reasons reflect just a few of the motivations that lead students to pursue an online high school education.
Comparing Public Online High Schools (ISD) vs. Private Online High Schools
1. Flexibility
One of the most notable differences between public and private online schools is flexibility.
Public Online High Schools (ISD): These programs may only be available to residents within certain districts or states. Some public online schools may require students to follow set school hours and schedules similar to in-person schooling. Additionally, some states may not offer online options at all, limiting your child’s choices if you relocate.
Private Online High Schools: Private online schools, like Excel High School, accept students from anywhere in the world. Students can progress at their own pace, set their own study times, and graduate early if they complete all requirements. For example, at Excel, students as young as 16 can graduate if they’ve completed required credits and achieved qualifying SAT or ACT scores, making this an ideal choice for students who are motivated to move ahead.
2. Course Variety & Quality
The range and quality of available courses can vary significantly between public and private online schools.
Public Online High Schools: Often limited by district budgets, these schools may provide core classes but may have fewer electives or specialized courses. Students typically receive a strong basic education, but the variety may not support all interests or goals.
Private Online High Schools: Private online schools typically have greater flexibility to offer an expanded curriculum, including diverse core classes, STEM-focused courses, AP and Honors tracks, and college-level coursework. At Excel, students can choose from graduation pathways that match their future goals, including college-preparatory and career-oriented programs. Every full-time student is also paired with an Academic Success Coach to support their academic journey.
3. Independence and Structure
Online schooling can vary widely in how much freedom students have in structuring their schedules.
Public Online High Schools: Many public online schools require students to log in during specific hours, attend live sessions, or adhere to strict attendance rules, regardless of how quickly they complete assignments. This can limit the flexibility that many families seek in online education.
Private Online High Schools: Private online schools, like Excel High School, emphasize student independence. Without rigid schedules, students can organize their studies around personal commitments, such as work or extracurriculars. A flexible schedule allows them to explore community involvement, participate in job shadowing, or even enroll in community college courses for credit. Excel’s asynchronous model empowers students to work in the morning, afternoon, or evening—whenever they perform best—without the pressure of daily attendance requirements.
What Sets Excel High School Apart?
Excel High School offers a unique blend of flexibility, support, and academic quality that sets it apart from both traditional and public online high schools:
- Global Accessibility: With 24/7 online access, students worldwide can enroll, making it an ideal option regardless of location or future moves.
- Tailored Graduation Paths: Excel provides options for college-bound students, career-oriented learners, and those pursuing early graduation. Students can select from standard, Honors, AP, and Dual Enrollment programs.
- Student Independence: Excel’s self-paced courses enable students to progress according to their own timelines, making it easier to balance studies with personal pursuits. This flexibility is especially beneficial for high-achieving students and those with unique scheduling needs.
- Comprehensive Support: Every student at Excel is assigned an Academic Success Coach, providing a personalized support system. Additionally, Excel’s curriculum is developed by education professionals and includes one-on-one tutoring, ensuring students have the resources they need to succeed.
By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your child’s academic goals, lifestyle, and long-term aspirations. Excel High School’s flexible and supportive approach provides students with the independence and opportunities to excel in their education, all while preparing them for a successful future.
