Online public schooling has become increasingly popular in the last decade, even before the pandemic of 2020 that forced the closure of schools. When schools closed during the pandemic, online school platforms could seamlessly continue, thanks to the already-established online platform. Teachers and staff continued to teach, and students attended classes and completed assignments without interruption.
But that is just one of the thoughts that come to mind for most people when they think of online school. It was a period that struck most recently and had the most impact on our lives. While some students and parents were eager to return to the brick-and-mortar school setting, the advantages of schooling remotely stuck for some. Enough that public online schools like Indiana Digital Learning School (INDLS) saw an increase in their graduation rate by 55%.
An important lesson was learned: virtual schools work. It’s a necessary option for parents who want to use online learning, don’t have the opportunity of a supportive brick-and-mortar school, or can’t afford a private school. There’s nothing wrong with supporting, choosing, and believing in-person education is best for some children. Still, there should be alternative options for the parents to make that is their choice for their children.
There are benefits and perks to online schooling. Students choose online learning for various reasons, like flexibility in schedules and sports, escaping from bullying, falling academically off track, looking for an alternative to the traditional classroom setting, avoiding changing schools (military families, etc.), or health issues.
Parents choose online learning for flexibility, the ability to be actively involved in their child’s progress and learning, the curriculum, their child’s health and safety, and to save money (Indiana Digital Learning School is tuition-free!). Online learning is also a good option for students with special needs or who live in rural areas with limited educational opportunities. It can provide a more flexible and accessible learning environment that can meet the needs of all learners.
If you’re considering public online schooling for your child, we encourage you to research and find a school that’s a good fit. Online learning can be an excellent way for your child to get a quality education. Indiana Digital Learning School offers a comprehensive online public school program through Union School Corporation. It includes a challenging curriculum and a full range of academic and support services to help students learn effectively.
Indiana Digital Learning School provides education for students from kindergarten to 12th grade. Currently, they are enrolling full-time Indiana residents in grades K-10. Career and college preparatory courses are also available for grades 6-12.
There are several factors to consider when choosing an online public school: accreditation, curriculum, faculty, student support, student life, cost, enrollment, and technology. Considering these factors makes entertaining an online learning decision much more straightforward.
Accreditation
The Indiana State Board of Education accredits Indiana Digital Learning School. INDLS meets all Indiana legal standards for education, and students must comply with all Indiana-mandated testing requirements for standardized testing and attendance guidelines.
Curriculum
Indiana Digital Learning School uses a K12 curriculum aligned with Indiana state standards. K12 curriculum uses game-based learning, augmented reality models, concept videos, animations, music and songs, and student-created content to engage children in an immersive learning experience.
Any necessary textbooks or hands-on learning materials are delivered to the student’s home before the school semester begins. These offline materials complement the interactive online lessons and vary depending on the grade and course.
Student Life
Parents are encouraged to commit to their child’s learning as their Learning Coach. In elementary school, a Learning Coach typically spends 4-6 hours a day assisting their child, which is especially critical in grades K-2.
In junior high, students become independent and work more with their teachers and in small group sessions. Learning Coach involvement typically decreases to 20 hours weekly for junior high schoolers, and students spend 4-7 hours daily on schoolwork.
INDLS senior high students work independently with teachers and in small group sessions. They have opportunities to receive course assistance and tutoring and are required to attend school Monday through Friday during a typical school week, devoting six hours per course per week.
Many opportunities exist for students to actively involve themselves at Indiana Digital Learning School: monthly challenges, competitions, field trips, and webinars. The INDLS K12 Zone interactive virtual campus allows classmates to hang out, attend school assemblies, and join clubs and activities. This safe and monitored environment is divided into grades so students can socialize with their peers.
Faculty
Indiana Digital Learning School hires state-certified teachers and support staff who work with students daily and live in-state.
Student Support
Students can interact with their peers and have an advisor to help them with their progress, attendance, and the platform in daily online classes. State tests assess knowledge, and administrative staff supports all students.
Course grade books give students, teachers, administrators, and families 24/7 access to grade information.
Cost
Indiana Digital Learning School is tuition-free. Indiana Digital Learning School also establishes an annual fund to provide partial reimbursement to qualifying families for their internet expenses at the end of the school year.
Enrollment
In 2022, there were more than 7,000 students enrolled in grades K-12. The student-teacher ratio in elementary school is 31:1, while the student-teacher ratio in junior and senior high school is 20:1.
Technology
Online learning allows your child to learn at home or anywhere with an internet connection while still receiving all of the benefits and support of a traditional school program. They participate in online lessons and offline activities using books and materials from K12, a Stride Company. State-certified teachers will instruct them in daily virtual sessions called “Class Connects.”
To use K12’s program, you will need a computer and an internet connection. Indiana Digital Learning School offers computer loans and stipend internet service for students eligible based on financial need.
Indiana Digital Learning School is an example of a successful online public school that offers a comprehensive curriculum and a full range of academic and support services. In conclusion, online public schooling is a reliable option for parents and students looking for a flexible, affordable, and quality education.
