A Little Confused about Online High Schools

This might be an odd question, but I've been hearing about online high schools more and more - what's the most expensive one? Are they really worth it? What are the benefits over traditional in-person high schools?

Online high schools have certainly gained more attention, especially in recent years! The cost of online high schools varies drastically, with some being free public schools in certain states and others being private institutions that can cost several thousand dollars per year. Stanford Online High School, for example, is one of the more expensive online high schools, with tuition ranging up to about $26,000 per year.

However, like with traditional schools, higher tuition doesn't necessarily equate to a better education. When selecting an online high school, it's important to evaluate the school on factors like curriculum, faculty qualifications, and overall fit with the student's learning style and educational goals.

The benefits of online high schools often include greater flexibility and self-paced learning, which can be beneficial for students who travel frequently, have demanding extracurriculars, or do not learn well in traditional school settings. Online schooling can also provide a more personalized learning experience, as students often have more direct lines of communication with teachers.

Whether an online high school is "worth it" depends on a student's particular circumstances. Some students thrive in an online learning environment, while others struggle without the structure and social interaction provided by a traditional school. It’s a personal decision that should take into consideration a variety of factors, like the student's learning style, discipline, and personal circumstances.

Furthermore, it's crucial to ensure that the online high school is accredited, which means it's been vetted by an outside agency for quality and rigor, and credits earned should be transferrable to other high schools or recognized by colleges in the admissions process.

Remember, online or in-class, a high school curriculum should ultimately prepare you for success in college and beyond, so choose the option best customized to your learning style and life situation.