Thinking of switching to online school? You’re not alone!
More and more students are choosing virtual learning because of the flexibility and freedom it offers. But before you can transition to online learning, you need to understand what online school is really like and how to talk to your parents about online school.
In this post, we’ll walk you through what to expect, how to prepare for the conversation and convince your parents to let you do online school, and how to show your family that you’re ready to take charge of your education.
Show That You’ve Done Your Homework
Before deciding how to talk to your parents about online school, it’s important to do some research. Like any big decision in life, doing your homework first shows that you’re serious and thoughtful about the change.
To help with your research, in this section, we’ll provide you with some useful information and resources.
What to Expect from Online School: From Freedom to More Responsibility
First and foremost, you need to understand how switching to online school is different from regular school. One of the biggest differences is the level of independence it requires. You’ll have a lot more flexibility in your daily schedule, but it’ll come with a lot more responsibility.
Here are some of the skills you’ll need to develop to be successful in online school:
- Time management: Planning out your day and week so you can stay on track with assignments and deadlines.
- Task initiation: Getting started on your school work independently since you won’t be able to count on a teacher or your parents constantly reminding you.
- Being a self-starter: Taking charge of your own progress and asking for help when you need it.
- Organization: From organizing your schedule to keeping your workspace clean.
- Communication: Reaching out to teachers and your advisor, asking questions, and working with your learning coach.
- Follow-through: Finishing what you start and meeting your goals.
Remember, online school is not easier than traditional school, but it is different. For some students, it can be a little harder since you need to be committed and disciplined. But with the right mindset, it can be a great opportunity to grow both academically and personally.
Related: A Typical Day for a Student Attending Virtual School
Benefits of Online School
Why do students choose online learning in the first place?
For many, it’s all about flexibility and personalized learning. You can create a schedule that works for your life and interests. You can also spend more time on the subjects that challenge you, while moving faster through the ones you’ve already mastered.
Other benefits include:
- Building confidence and independence by taking more control of your learning
- Exploring a wider range of electives and enrichment opportunities
- Learning at your own pace in a setting that’s often more comfortable and less distracting
Online school empowers you to take ownership of your education in a way that works for you. If you’d like to learn more, check out 10 reasons students made the switch to virtual high school.
State Your Case For Wanting to Switch
Once you’ve done your research, you’ll be ready to start thinking about how to talk to your parents about switching to online school. It helps to lead with your why. Be clear and honest about what’s motivating you to switch.
Maybe you’re not thriving in a crowded classroom. Maybe you want more flexibility to dive deeper into subjects you care about. Or maybe you like the idea of managing your own time and learning from home so you can balance a part-time job or participate in sports at a high level.
Whatever your reasons, be as specific as possible. Try to frame your reasons around wanting to do better in school and not less. Your parents might assume online school means an easier path. Reassure them that your goal is to succeed in a learning environment that fits you better.
Related: Solutions to Common Challenges When Switching to Online School
Answer Their Questions & Address Their Concerns
Your parents want what’s best for you, and they’ll probably have some questions and maybe even some worries. That’s normal! One of the best ways to show you’re ready for this change is by anticipating their concerns and being prepared with answers.
In our experience, here are some of the common concerns parents have about switching to online school:
Will you stay focused and motivated?
You can’t coast through online school. You can show initiative by researching time management techniques and other ways you can stay focused while studying at home. Let your parents know you’ve thought about this. Show them you’re building a plan to stay on track.
Will you have the same level of social interaction?
Many online schools provide plenty of opportunities for social interaction to develop your social skills. When you’re looking for an online high school, make sure to check out what kinds of opportunities are available for socialization, like in-person enrichment opportunities, extracurricular activities, clubs, and field trips.
Here at Summit, our students have access to in-person enrichment options that supplement their learning while allowing them to connect with their peers. Check what your school offers so you can speak to it directly.
Will you get the same level of education?
Of course! Fully accredited online public schools meet the same state standards as traditional schools. That means certified teachers, aligned curriculum, and state-required assessments.
Since 2018, Summit Learning Charter has consistently achieved a graduation rate between 94% and 96%, which is well above the national average of 88.6%! We’re also fully accredited by Cognia and meet state curriculum requirements.
Can you develop real-world skills?
Online schooling will help you develop all the real-world skills you’ll need and then some! Because of the additional need to be disciplined and manage your schedule, you’ll develop a lot of “adult” skills that will serve you well in college, the workplace, and beyond.
Related: Benefits of Online Learning for Remote Work Jobs
How much will it cost?
If you’re choosing a public online charter school like Summit, there’s no cost. Just like a traditional public school, it’s completely free to attend.
Be Clear About Their Role
Before you wrap up the conversation, make sure your parents understand what their role will be. In online learning, parents or guardians take on the role of a learning coach. That doesn’t mean they’re expected to become a teacher. Their job is to help you stay organized, check in on your progress, and offer academic support when you need it. In high school, their role becomes more hands-off, but is still important.
Talking through their role ahead of time helps set expectations and shows that you’ve really thought this through.
At Summit Learning Charter, we partner closely with families to make sure everyone feels supported. Our licensed teachers handle the instruction and grading, while learning coaches offer encouragement and structure at home. From your teachers and counselors to your family at home, you’ll have a full team behind you. You’ll also be able to count on a dedicated advisor whom you can reach out to year-round for dedicated support.
Your Education, Your Future
Choosing online school is a big decision, and a personal one. By taking the time to do your research, think through your reasons, and communicate openly with your parents, you’re already showing the kind of maturity remote learning requires.
If you’re interested in online learning in the state of Oregon, Summit Learning Charter is a great option. From our caring teachers to our flexible programs and real-world learning opportunities, we believe in helping students thrive on their own terms.
Feel free to visit our enrollment page or contact us for more information.
