Virtual Schools: An Alternative Choice for Parents

Many families in Georgia are discovering a new type of public school. It has actually been in existence for several years, but as more

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parents are looking for alternatives to their local brick and mortar schools, they're looking to their computers for solutions. As a result, they're finding that they can “send” their child to public school, without them ever leaving home.

With technology advancing like it is, our children are growing up already plugged into the electronic world. So it wasn't long before schools started following in on this trend. A virtual school is one where the curriculum (and teachers)  are online. Most people have likely heard about the online colleges, giving flexibility in hours and courses. Much like many of those online colleges, there are now  online  elementary, middle, and high schools.

Unlike online colleges who cater to self sufficient adults,  if you choose to explore this option your students will need your help. So, the decision  to send your child to a virtual school is one you have to consider carefully. There are private online schools,where you pay for the curriculum. There may or may not be teachers involved to help you out. You may simply be using their online curriculum to supplement your home school plan. ;

A more economical option for parents are the public online schools offered throughout states. A public virtual school is generally considered a charter school. It may be a local charter, like that of Gwinnett County's Online Charter or it may be a state charter. Similar to other public schools, it will be free for students to attend with materials provided (though that may or may not include the computer). As a charter school, it receives it's finances the same as most other charter schools-from the state. The overhead cost is different from what you would normally find in a brick and mortar school. The breakdown on that will vary depending on the school, it's size and what it has to offer.

What a parent has to truly consider, though, is that a virtual school requires more work on their part than you would think. The parent, especially of an elementary school age child and potentially of a middle school student, must be ready to assist the teacher in completing classwork and school work.They will have to interact with their child daily while they are doing their school work. A child will not be able to simply be put in front of the computer and expected to learn what is put in front of them. A teacher will be available to assist, but as they aren't with your child directly so their influence is limited. An older child can do more on their own, but a parent must be willing to follow up on what their child is doing.

On the other hand, the opportunity to watch your child learn is a wonderful experience. The schedule can be relatively flexible, so a parent can add in extras to keep their child engaged. A field trip to a local museum to reinforce a lesson in history is a wonderful thing. Understanding that the economy is what it is, many schools cannot offer these added benefits. An engaged parent, though, can provide opportunities to their child that others will not receive.

Considering all of the benefits,a virtual public school is a great alternative to your local brick and mortar school. It should only be considered, though, if a parent or other adult will be available during the day to assist the student. The older the student, the less assistance they should need, but it will all depend on the individual in question. As with anything, though, thoroughly research the school in question and ask questions. Find parents with children attending that school, if you can, and attend any local information sessions they may provide. To find a listing of your local virtual schools, contact your local Board of Education.

Do you know anyone whose enrolled in a virtual school? What do you think about the emergence of more virtual schools in your state?[/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]