There has never been a better time for homeschooling parents to take advantage of the same tools that adults are using to continue their education. The public school systems in some states have now begun recognizing the benefits of virtual schooling. States are now contracting with curriculum companies that offer online virtual education for Kindergarten through 12th grade. Connections Academy and K12 Curriculum are two of them. What this means is free public education for children who would benefit from learning in their home environment. It is a wonderful advancement in the homeschool arena. In some states, they offer families a computer, printer, headphones, and a microphone. They also offer reimbursement for the Internet bill for the child to maintain an active connection.

The companies' policies do not fall under a homeschool law, they must abide by public school law which is mandated by each state. Virtual learning at home is more convenient; however, that does not mean it is easy. Attendance is taken as required by each state's law, and the children are required to take standardized tests if that is what the public education law states.

The virtual schools match each student up with a certified public teacher to regularly communicate with and to call upon any time they are in need. Virtual school education goes far beyond a computer screen. Primary school students spend approximately 25% of their time on the computer while secondary students spend about 50% of their time on the computer. Students attend field trips, sometimes with a class in the local school district, or maybe with other children enrolled in the same virtual school who live nearby. There are enrichment programs, electives, clubs, and many more options. They offer classes in various launguages, life skills, and a chess club to name some. Just as adults benefit from the flexibility that online education allows, so do children. The education plans at the virtual schools are adjusted for each child's individual learning needs.

Statistics are showing that these alternative education options are working well for everyone involved. Virtual students are showing higher scores on standardized tests than their peers in the brick-and-mortar classrooms, and parents are giving excellent feedback that is anonymously calculated by a third party entity - not the schools. These technological advances have opened a door for many families who would be limited otherwise. It is beneficial to have alternative options that produce exceptional results, and virtual K-12 academies come through.

Learn more about this author, A. Bailey.
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