Virtual schools allow students to take courses online through websites and software while communicating with teachers and other students remotely. They provide benefits like flexible scheduling, opportunities for gifted students to learn at a faster pace, and access to courses not otherwise available. However, online courses require high levels of self-motivation and discipline as students guide themselves through the material without face-to-face interaction. While virtual schools offer support like student coaches and online instructors, dropout rates tend to be higher than in traditional classrooms. Determining whether a virtual school is appropriate depends on a student's learning needs, motivation level, time management skills, and parental support.

1. BY MS. AMY VANWAGENEN AND MS. ALEXANDRA FISS What’s so GREAT about Virtual Schools?

2. What is a virtual school? Teachers and students are in different locations Coursework is accessed through websites and special software Communication is through emails, discussion boards, and web chat rooms Virtual schools, online courses mixed with in class courses, public and private virtual schools

3. What are the benefits? They provide an opportunity for a flexible schedule They challenge students who would like to learn at a faster pace than that of a typical classroom Students receive more one-to-one contact with their teacher Courses offered may not be available in their school Students choose to enroll, making them more motivated to succeed

4. Won’t the kids miss out on the social aspects of a typical school? One great option is a blended curriculum of courses, students benefit from online course while still attending a brick-and-mortar school Online courses actually offer many opportunities for online discussions with their fellow students, they all have something in common and can form lasting friendships

5. Who are the students taking online courses? Gifted and talented students who may not be challenged in a typical classroom Students with physical disabilities benefit with adaptive and assistive devices Students with learning disabilities that would benefit from having longer time to complete assignments, one-on-one attention, and written notes Students looking for more variety of courses to further their education or get prepared to enter a university

6. Warning! Online courses and virtual schools are not for every student Students must be self motivated and have self discipline to guide themselves through the courses and keep up with their work Students must possess technical skills to achieve in course and solve minor technical problems

7. What kind of support do students receive? Many online programs offer student coaches who are professional adults in the brick-and-mortar school These liaisons offer technical and academic support, including validating test taking procedures Online instructors offer more one-on-one support to their students

8. What are the negatives? Many problems are due to technology or installation Dropout rates from courses are 10-20% higher than in class courses Online courses are not always the most effective means to teach a subject Students miss out on face-to-face communications such as voice tone, body language, facial expression

9. Is an online or virtual school right for your child? Talk to your child and their teachers, ask some of these questions … Do they have the motivation? Can they manage their time efficiently? Is their learning style compatible with online learning? Does their schedule permit them to try an online course to see if it fits their individual needs? Will you, as a parent, be able to support them and help motive them?

10. Resources www.k12.com this site offers information on online public and private schools www.netc.org/digitalbridges this site offers resources and information for parents, educators, and students