5 Steps for Transferring to Virtual School Midyear

Online K-12 education has been growing at a remarkable rate in recent years, and it’s not hard to see why. Young learners and their families are choosing virtual schooling for a variety of reasons. They’re taking advantage of increased flexibility, individualized curricula, and the chance to take a more active role in the learning process. Colleges and universities are also benefiting from this new generation of independent, self-motivated online students.

Shifting from traditional learning to online school is more straightforward than many people might think, and it’s even possible to make the switch in the middle of the school year! In this article, we’ll go over the varied reasons why students might want or need to make this transition and how to transfer to online school in the middle of the school year.

Reasons Why Students Switch Schools Midyear

Switching to a new school in the middle of the academic calendar can present unique challenges for students and families. However, it can also be a necessary and positive step.

As our world becomes more interconnected through technology, many families are reaping the benefits of choosing online school. Here are just a few reasons why students may switch to virtual school in the middle of the school year:

• Moving to a new state or district
• Difficulty with traditional classrooms
• Bullying or peer pressure
• Concerns about emotional or physical safety
• A health condition that impacts attendance
• Unsupportive or ineffective teachers

Step By Step Guide for Transferring to Virtual School

1. Research Schools 

Before you enroll in online school and transfer credits over, the first step is choosing the right school to meet your needs and goals. Here are some important qualities to look for in a high-quality virtual school:

• Accreditations
• Qualified teachers
• Comprehensive curricula
• Positive student and parent testimonials
• An excellent graduation rate

Steer clear of institutions that don’t have a physical address, offer vague or insufficient information, have excessive upfront costs, or engage in pushy marketing tactics.

2. Contact Schools and Ask Questions

Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential online schools, it’s time to contact each school to get your questions answered. You’ll want to ask general questions about the enrollment process, expectations for students and families, how to transfer credits and what constitutes a transferable course, and when you can begin attending courses.

In general, the semester break is the optimal time to make the switch. That’s because any large projects and complex lessons are likely to be due at the end of a semester, which means new concepts will be introduced at the beginning of the next semester.

If you’re unable to switch at the semester break, you’ll want to inquire about how to make the process of joining courses in the middle of the semester as smooth as possible. Our amazing counselors at Summit Learning Charter are here to answer all your questions and help you navigate the process easily and comfortably.

3. Prepare Documentation Ahead of Time

Before you apply, it’s a good idea to assemble all the documentation you’ll need to make the transition. Contact your new school ahead of time to discuss what paperwork you’ll need. Most schools will require:

• Transcripts from past schools
• Proof of residency
• Immunization records 
• An application form
• Student birth certificate

You should be able to transfer credits for all completed classes, including applicable homeschool classes. Be sure to include transferable courses for the current year, as this will ensure you don’t have to play catch-up on material you’ve already completed.

4. Apply for Schools

Once you have all your information in order, you’re ready to apply! Most schools will have an application form available online. SLC offers a straightforward online student application process. Just apply through our website and we’ll reach out to you!

5. Prepare for the First Day of School

Once your application is approved, you’ll want to work closely with your new school’s guidance counselors to ensure all your credits are transferred successfully. Transferring to online school midyear requires open dialogue with teachers, counselors, and school administrators.

At SLC, we’re committed to helping each and every student succeed, and we’re here to provide all the necessary resources and support you need during your transition to virtual school and beyond. We provide each student with a laptop and access to the latest digital platforms to promote technologically advanced and connected classrooms for our students.

Tips for Transitioning to Online School

Virtual education can be a life-changing experience for students and families. While virtual classrooms are a wonderful opportunity for educational development, transitioning effectively from traditional schooling requires preparation and care. 

Here are our top tips for parents to help students successfully transition to online school:

• Parental involvement is key to online learning, so be prepared to take an active role as a learning coach.
• Create a distraction-free study space for your child to complete coursework and attend virtual lectures.
• Communicate with teachers on a regular basis.
• Commit at least 4 hours daily to school work and maintain a consistent schedule.
• Take advantage of enrichment opportunities. SLC offers in-person activities and blended learning options for students to socialize and learn in a more traditional environment.

Optimize Your Learning and Your Future with Summit Learning Charter!

Whether you’re considering making the switch to online school this year or you’re a long-time virtual learner, we’re committed to your success. We welcome new students of all educational backgrounds. Our wonderful teachers and counselors are here to answer any questions you have and help make your application and enrollment process as smooth as possible.

Learn more about academics at SLC, read answers to our most frequently asked questions, and don’t hesitate to contact us to discuss your situation and goals and find out if SLC is right for your family.