Middle and high school are crucial years in a student’s life as they develop independent academic skills, increase socialization, and think about their future. When my children became pre-teens, education became an even more harrowing journey for me as a parent. They no longer relied on me as much and instead sought out their peers, teachers, and the school for support and academic decisions.
As a parent, it was increasingly important during these years to have a say in their education, influence them, and see them succeed. I checked out all of the schooling options available, and I mean all of them: public, private, brick-and-mortar, homeschooling, and online. Ultimately, I chose a public online learning platform that was very successful for my teenagers.
Being supportive and understanding during these years is essential. It is also important to provide guidance and support when needed and to choose a school that believes that, too.
Why Hoosier College and Career Academy Worked for Us
Academically, teenagers are expected to take more demanding courses and learn more complex material. They also begin to prepare for college or the workforce. Socially, they develop their identities and learn to interact with others in various settings. They may also start participating in extracurricular activities such as sports or clubs. However, there was no time for this with a regular brick-and-mortar school schedule. Online learning allowed more flexibility in creating our plans and required less “classroom” time.
The middle and high school years are also stressful. Students are expected to succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. However, these years can also be a time of significant growth and learning. Students can develop their interests, learn to manage their time, and build relationships with peers and teachers. The online platform allowed for this in a less pressured setting, especially for one of my kids, who was more timid, had social anxiety, and was prone to bullying.
Online learning is a popular option for students of all ages. Hoosier College and Career Academy (HCCA) is a top-notch online education provider for middle and high school students. It offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes academics, career prep, social and emotional learning (SEL), an individualized remediation program, and individualized learning plans (ILPs).
About Hoosier College and Career Academy
Hoosier College and Career Academy is an online, career-focused Indiana public school sponsored by Ball State University. Full-time Indiana residents in grades 7-12 seeking a solid academic foundation with hands-on learning experiences in career exploration are eligible for enrollment.
HCCA is a “virtual charter school” accredited by the state of Indiana and employs state-licensed teachers and certified support staff. They believe families need options for public education and that they are an option that will prepare students for personal and professional success.
How does HCCA work?
Through online lessons and offline activities, online learning works wherever there is an internet connection. Students are assigned classes and teachers personalized to their needs and learning plans. Teachers provide instruction through virtual sessions called “Class Connects.” Class Connects are used for one-on-ones with teachers and live instruction. If needed, individual remediation plans and credit recovery courses are available.
Students must be able to work independently, spend at least six hours daily in online active learning, attend online “Class Connect” sessions, respond to school staff emails within 48 hours, and earn passing grades.
Options for Career and College Prep
In addition to earning a Core 40 diploma, HCCA students can plan for their future through the Career and College Prep Program. The program helps students prepare for their future by providing classes that explore various fields and earn college credits while earning a high school diploma. Students can earn college credits and get a head start on their college education by taking these courses.
Middle school students at HCCA can take career exploration courses as part of the college and career preparation program. These courses will help them explore their interests and discover potential career paths. These courses will give them a head start on choosing a career pathway in high school.
HCCA high school courses are tailored for students who aim to attend a four-year university, a community college, or start a career immediately. Career and Technical Education (CTE) electives are also available to high school students interested in Marketing, Business Administration, Informational Technology, and Human and Social Services fields.
Students can graduate from high school with college credits, tuition-free and at no additional cost to their families. These credits are guaranteed to transfer to any Indiana college. Many high school graduates who take this college path can take certification exams immediately after graduation and begin working.
Career-focused electives offered at HCCA:
- Arts, AV Technology & Communications
- Business Management & Administration, Marketing & Finance
- Health Sciences
- Human Services
HCCA students can join a career club called a Career Technical Service Organization (CTSO). SkillsUSA is the career club at HCCA, and it covers 130 job categories and more than 600 national partners. Through a CTSO, students can take additional courses, participate in academic competitions and community service activities, connect to other students with similar interests, and earn exclusive scholarships.
What kind of curriculum and courses are offered?
The Hoosier College and Career Academy uses a K12 curriculum aligned with Indiana state standards. The K12 curriculum engages teens with animations, interactive games, videos, and text.
Middle school students take the core classes: math, science, English/language arts, history, art, and self-guided electives in music and world languages. High School focuses on the Core 40 and implementing career pathway courses that count towards earned college credits.
Students can view their grades in the Student Progress Report during the semester. Parents/mentors also have 24‐7 access to grade information via course grade books. Access to a gradebook is one benefit I didn’t have at a brick-and-mortar school that I now appreciate about online learning.
Social Opportunities in Online Learning
Hoosier College and Career Academy organizes various special events, field trips, and activities throughout the year, allowing students and families to meet teachers, make new friends, and connect with other families. These events are usually free or low-cost. There are also dances and proms!
HCCA offers a wide range of student clubs and support groups to help students socialize and connect with peers. Clubs are optional, but there is something for everyone, including Anime Club, Green Thumbs Club, Minecraft Club, Harry Potter Club, Animal Lovers Club, Art Club, Book Club, Science Club, and Multi-Lingual Learners Club.
The K12 Zone is a supervised virtual campus that allows students to learn and socialize in an interactive environment. Students can participate in activities and clubs, access learning resources, and interact with their peers through virtual chats, video conferencing, group activities, and more.
The Benefits of an SEL Program
HCCA stands out from other online schools by taking a holistic approach to student success. Their Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) program provides additional support services and gives students a safe place to express themselves. School counselors work with staff to provide students with live, online social and emotional advisory sessions. Through the program, students develop five critical social and emotional areas essential for success in school and life: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship building, and responsible decision-making.
