Today’s generation of high school teens, Gen Z, is unique. Gen Zs are digital natives, socially conscious, independent, creative, and resilient. They have grown up with technology and are comfortable using it in all aspects of their lives. They are always looking for new ways to express themselves, have faced many challenges in their short lives, and have learned to adapt and overcome them.
Online learning can be a great fit for this generation and future ones because it allows them to learn at their own pace and in their own way. This is especially beneficial for students who learn differently or have busy schedules. Online learning can also be more affordable than traditional education, providing students access to a broader range of courses and programs.
Furthermore, online learning can help students develop important skills such as time management, self-motivation, and critical thinking. Indiana Digital Alternative School (INDA) was founded on the belief that all students deserve an education that meets their needs and that not all students are the same.
About Indiana Digital Alternative School
Indiana Digital Alternative School is an online school that meets the needs of Gen Z high schoolers by offering a personalized approach to education, career and college prep courses, and a shortened school schedule. Enrollment is offered to full-time Indiana residents in grades 9-12 looking for an alternative path to a high school diploma.
INDA is a 100% online alternative school program accredited by the state of Indiana and operated by Union School Corporation. Their mission is to educate all students to become productive, responsible citizens and lifelong learners who reach their full potential. Additionally, INDA and their college credit classes are free of charge.
Accreditation and Faculty
The Indiana State Board of Education accredits the Indiana Digital Alternative School. It meets all legal education standards in Indiana, and students must comply with all Indiana-mandated testing requirements for standardized testing and attendance guidelines.
INDA employs state-licensed teachers and certified support staff who work with students daily. Teachers provide individual and group course assistance, tutoring, and instruction.
Options for Career and College Prep
In addition to earning a Core 40 diploma, INDA students can plan for their future through the Career and College Prep Program. The program helps students plan 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.
INDA students can graduate with 30 college credits or more, equal to a full year of college, tuition-free and without any additional cost to the family. These credits are guaranteed to transfer to any Indiana college. Many college-path high school graduates can take certification exams right after graduation and obtain immediate employment.
Career courses offered through INDA:
- Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources
- Arts, AV Technology & Communications
- Business Management & Administration
- Education & Training
- Finance
- Hospitality & Tourism
- Human Services
- Law, Public Safety, Corrections & Security
- Marketing
- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM)
Curriculum and Courses
The Indiana Digital Alternative School uses a K12 curriculum aligned with Indiana state standards. The K12 curriculum engages teens with game-based learning, augmented reality models, concept videos, animations, and student-created content.
INDA’s high school core courses are language arts/English, math, science, and history. Students can also choose electives and career-focused courses. Electives can include art, foreign language, computer science, and more.
If a student is behind on credits, INDA offers credit recovery curriculum to help them get back on track. This curriculum is designed to help students catch up on the credits they need to graduate on time. INDA will provide necessary textbooks or hands-on learning materials to help students succeed.
Student Life and Socialization
Academically, students must work independently, spend at least three hours daily on school work, attend online “Class Connect” sessions, and earn passing grades. INDA offers socialization opportunities that many teens may need while still in an online learning environment. Online learning gives students the flexibility to create a schedule that works for them and their activities.
In-person opportunities for socializing are offered throughout the year through field trips and other activities. INDA also offers online school clubs, national clubs, art competitions, an ESports League, and other extracurricular activities.
INDA follows a typical school calendar with breaks for fall, winter, spring, and holidays. Twelfth graders even get a Senior Day. Students can attend monthly events, challenges, and competitions to connect with their peers. They are also free to choose extracurricular activities such as clubs and sports. INDA has recently introduced a safe and supervised “virtual playground” where students can interact, play games, and chat with their peers.
The Alternative Benefits
Indiana Digital Alternative School is a good option for teens who would benefit from an online learning platform. It can be customized to meet the individual needs of each student and is especially beneficial for those who need alternative options or want to pursue career-focused courses.
Students can work at their own pace and on their own time, and the school offers various support services to help students succeed. Indiana Digital Alternative School is a great option for students who want a flexible and individualized learning experience.
In addition to the above, here are some other benefits of attending Indiana Digital Alternative School:
- Students can earn their high school diploma online, which can be helpful for students who have difficulty attending a traditional school.
- The school offers various support services, such as tutoring, counseling, and additional college financial aid options.
- The school strongly focuses on student success and offers a variety of resources and support to help students succeed, including counselors and support staff.
- The school has a low student-to-teacher ratio, meaning students receive more individual attention from their teachers.
- The school has a safe and supportive learning environment.
