Many states now offer online charter school programs to residents at no cost. By enrolling in an online charter school, your child may be able to earn a high school diploma or make up missed credits without falling behind in a traditional school. How do you choose an online charter school? These six steps can help.
Step 1: Learn About Your Charter School Options
Depending on where you live, you may need to choose between several online charter school programs. All charter schools are publicly funded. However, charter school administrators generally have much more flexibility than those running traditional, public programs. Some online charter school programs are run by small parent groups. Others are directed by large companies offering programs in multiple states. Some online charter programs offer just the basics while others provide everything from computer rentals to extracurricular activities.Step 2: Find Online Charter School Programs Available in Your State
Because online charter school programs receive state funds, they generally limit enrollments to students residing in the state or even a particular district. Almost all states now offer some type of online charter school. You can find your options in the
State-by-State List of Online Charter Schools.
Step 3: Check the Accreditation of Local Online Charter Schools
If you want your child's credits / diploma to be accepted by other schools, your best bet is to choose an online charter school that is properly accredited. The most widely-accepted type of accreditation comes from the
six regional accreditors. Accreditation from the
Distance Education Training Council is also accepted by many schools.
Step 4: Scrutinize the Academic Options Offered by Online Charter Schools
Narrow your list of online charter school programs by eliminating options that fail to meet your child’s academic needs. Some online charter schools offer remedial classes and are targeted towards students falling behind in the traditional system. Others are more academically challenging, offering an advanced curriculum and the opportunity to take college preparatory courses. Eliminate the programs that aren’t compatible with your child’s academic abilities.Step 5: Ask About Class Size, Teacher Interaction, and Learning Format
You’ll also want to find out how each online charter school program works. Some online charter school programs offer heavy teacher interaction, requiring students to chat one-on-one with an instructor every school day. Other online charter schools require students to do the majority of their coursework independently, giving additional guidance only when asked. Evaluate your child’s learning preferences and inclination to independent work. Then, choose an online charter school that meets these needs.Step 6: Sign Up for Online Charter School Wait Lists Early
Once you’ve chosen an online charter school, make sure to sign up early. Many online charter school programs have lengthy waiting lists or select students through a lottery system. The sooner you sign-up, the earlier your child will be given the opportunity to enroll.
