Educational Options For Children
On-line learning programs are poised to see tremendous growth in the next few years, mirroring the national trend of more entertainment content being delivered right to the home. Almost all public universities in the United States now have on-line or distance learning classes as part of their degree programs and many high school programs are following suit. ​
ADVANTAGES
Advantages of on-line school programs include:
- The flexibility of learning at your own pace
- Freedom from the social distractions of traditional public schools
- Many online programs offer a wide variety of electives and specialized classes that fulfill both high school and college credit requirements
- Familiarity with the on-line learning model is conducive to further success when taking on-line college classes
- Schedule flexibility allows students time for opportunities outside of school such as internships, employment and life application
Technology Requirements
Many on-line programs offer students free or reduced computers or laptops in exchange for enrolling in their program. These offers may include a damage deposit and or a performance clause indicating how long the student must stay enrolled in good standing in the program. Make sure to read and understand all contracts.
On-line Program Affiliations
Because on-line students still provide a portion of the state per student allotment of funding, many public school districts have started their own on-line programs. These programs are simply extensions of the districts themselves often using the same curriculum and having identical educational goals and philosophies of the districts. Other on-line programs are independently operated or are affiliated with universities and/or private schools.
On-line programs affiliated with public schools can be found at http://www.cde.state.co.us/
onlinelearning/schools.asp
Private on-line programs can be found by searching "virtual academy or private online school" on the internet or by checking with the desired private school to see if it offers an on-line option.
