How to Find an Accredited Online High School Program in 5 Easy Steps

Are you having a difficult time choosing an online high school program?

Does the pressure to find the “right” one leave you paralyzed?  Relax! Let us guide you through a simple 5-step process to help you easily find an accredited program for your teen. 

Why Choose an Accredited Online High School Program?

Accredited online high school programs refer to those that have met rigorous educational standards set by independent organizations. 

So, why should accreditation be your top priority when selecting an online high school program for your teen? Here are a few compelling reasons:

• College Admissions

  Colleges and universities want to see that students have received a strong academic foundation. Accredited online high school programs ensure your teen’s credits will be accepted in colleges and universities. 

• Future Opportunities

  A solid academic transcript from an accredited online high school program opens doors to future opportunities. It can prepare your teen for success not just in college or vocational training but also even in the workforce.

• Peace of Mind

  Choosing an accredited online high school program gives you peace of mind knowing that your child is receiving a quality education that meets established standards. You can rest assured that their hard work will be recognized and valued.

5 Steps to Finding an Accredited Online High School Program 

Now that you understand the importance of accreditation, let us help you find the right program in just a few simple steps: 

Step 1: Research Accreditation Requirements

The first step is to understand what accreditation means for online high schools.   Accredited online high school programs have been reviewed and approved by a reputable accrediting organization.  Some of the leading accrediting organizations for online high schools include Cognia and the Middle States Association Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools. A quick web search can lead you to a list of reputable accrediting organizations to get you started on your research journey.

Step 2: Explore Program Options and Features

With the importance of accreditation in mind, it’s time to start exploring specific online high school programs.  Consider your teen’s learning style and academic needs when making your choices. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

• Curriculum and Course Offerings

  Does the program offer the courses your teen needs to graduate and prepare for college (if that’s their goal)? Look for programs that align with your teen’s academic interests and graduation requirements. Don’t forget to check for those electives that can spark their curiosity and ignite a lifelong passion!

• Learning Platform Features

  Is the online learning platform user-friendly and accessible? Does it offer features like clear instructions, engaging activities, and easy-to-use communication tools? Your teen should feel comfortable navigating the platform and accessing learning materials. Ideally, the platform should be accessible from any device with an internet connection, allowing your teen to learn on the go!

• Support Services

  What kind of support services does the program offer? Look for programs with dedicated teachers, academic counselors, and tutoring options to ensure your teen receives the help they need to succeed.  Consider programs that offer communication channels for you to stay involved in your teen’s learning journey.

Step 3: Verify Accreditation Status of Potential Programs

Once you’ve identified a few promising online high school programs, it’s crucial to verify their accreditation status. Here’s how to do it:

• Check the Program’s Website

  Most reputable online high schools will display their accreditation logos and links to the accrediting organization prominently on their website. Look for these displayed on the homepage or in the “About Us” section.

• Contact the Program Directly

  Don’t hesitate to reach out to the program directly and inquire about their accreditation. Ask them to specify the accrediting organization and provide any relevant details.

• Verify with the Accrediting Organization

  Take the extra step to verify the program’s accreditation status with the accrediting organization they listed. Most accrediting organizations have a website where you can search for accredited schools by name or location.

Step 4: Contact Programs and Schedule Calls

Now that you’ve narrowed down your options to accredited online high school programs, it’s time to gather more information.  Reach out to the online high schools offering your preferred programs. These calls are a great opportunity to ask detailed questions and get a feel for the program’s culture and approach to learning. You may consider asking these questions:

• Curriculum Details

  Ask about the specific curriculum offered, including course descriptions, elective options, and availability of an advanced placement course or dual enrollment/dual credit program. 

• Learning Platform and Support Services

  Inquire about the features of the online learning platform and the support services available to students. This might include information about teacher-student communication, tutoring options, and academic counseling.

• Social Interaction and Extracurricular Activities

  While online high schools offer flexibility, social interaction is important for teens. Ask if the program offers opportunities for students to connect with their peers, such as online clubs, forums, or project-based collaboration. Remember, your teen can likely maintain their social connections through extracurricular activities and hobbies outside of school.

• Admissions Process and Requirements

  Understand the admissions process for the program, including any application deadlines, testing requirements, or prerequisites.

• Tuition and Payment Options

  Get clear information about tuition fees, any additional costs, and available payment plans. Consider if the program offers flexible payment options that fit your family’s budget.

Step 5: Compare Programs and Make Your Choice

After conducting your research and making calls, it’s time to compare the different accredited online high school programs.  Create a chart to compare factors like curriculum offerings, learning platform features, support services, cost, social interaction opportunities (if applicable), and any other details that are important to you and your teen. 

Discuss the options with your teen and consider their learning style and preferences.  Do they thrive with a structured approach or benefit from more independent learning?  Ultimately, the best program is the one that best meets your child’s needs. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Accredited Online High School Programs: 

We know how overwhelming it can be to choose the right accredited online high school program for your teen. In this section, let us address some of the common concerns that parents might have about online high schools:

• Is online school right for my child?

  Online school can be a great fit for self-motivated students who thrive in a flexible learning environment. If your teen is disciplined and manages their time well, they can excel in an online program.

• How will my child stay motivated in an online environment?

  Many online high school programs offer features like interactive learning activities, regular communication with teachers, and opportunities for student collaboration to keep students engaged. 

• What social interaction opportunities exist in online programs?

  While the focus is on academics, some online high school programs do offer opportunities for social interaction like facilitating student connections through online forums, virtual clubs, and collaborative projects. Remember, your teen can also maintain their social circle through extracurricular activities and hobbies outside of school.

Ready to take your pick?

Finding the perfect accredited online high school program for your teen doesn’t have to be stressful.  At Forest Trail Academy, we ensure that your child receives quality education with transferable credits, all within a flexible and personalized learning environment. 

We offer a wide range of online high school courses,  a user-friendly learning platform designed to engage and support students, and a team of dedicated teachers who are passionate about helping students succeed. Book a consultation with us today and let us help you find the perfect online high school program for your teen.