Transitioning out of the public school system and into online learning can feel like a big leap, but with the right information and support, the change can be a breeze. Choosing the right online high school is a significant decision that can shape your student’s academic journey and future opportunities. With the rise of online learning, families have more flexibility than ever before, but there are important factors to weigh before making a final decision. From accreditation to curriculum quality, flexibility and student support services, this guide will walk you through key considerations to ensure your student’s success in an online learning environment.

To read more about if online school is right for your student, check out our blog, Is Online High School Worth It? Pros and Cons.

Accreditation: Ensuring a quality education for full-time students

The first factor to consider when selecting an online high school is accreditation. Accreditation ensures that the school meets recognized standards of quality and that your student’s credits will be transferable to other institutions, including colleges and universities. Look for schools accredited by reputable organizations, such as regional accrediting bodies or the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC).

Why does this matter? Without proper accreditation, your student’s hard-earned high school diploma may not be recognized by colleges or employers, limiting future opportunities. To avoid this, always verify the school’s accreditation status before enrolling.

Key Takeaway: Always confirm a school’s accreditation before enrolling—this is crucial to ensure your student’s credits and high school diploma will be recognized by universities and employers. Even if opting for a homeschool approach, ensure your student’s program is fulfilling the requirements for graduation.

To read more about how online school can impact your student’s future education, check out our blog, Do Online High Schools Impact College Admissions?

Curriculum quality: Meeting academic standards for high school students

A well-rounded, challenging curriculum is essential to preparing learners for life beyond high school. When evaluating online high schools, take the time to review their course offerings and ensure they align with your student’s academic and career goals.

High-quality online high school programs will offer:

• Core subjects that meet state educational standards
• Advanced Placement (AP) or honors courses for those seeking additional academic rigor
• Elective courses that allow students to explore interests beyond the basics, from STEM subjects to the arts
• Look for programs that offer English classes for students who are non-native speakers to support their language development.
• Keep an eye out for programs that offer credit recovery courses or college prep.
• Look for a program with certified teachers.

Additionally, consider if the school provides concurrent or dual enrollment opportunities, allowing students to earn college credit while still in high school. This can give them a head start on their higher education journey.

Flexibility: Tailoring online education to your high school student’s needs

One of the major advantages of online schooling is flexibility. Unlike traditional brick-and-mortar schools, online high schools often allow students to create personalized schedules that fit their learning styles and daily routines. But not all online programs offer the same level of flexibility.

Ask yourself:

• Does the program offer synchronous (live) or asynchronous (self-paced) learning?
• Can your student complete coursework at their own pace or are there rigid deadlines?
• Are there options to accelerate through courses or slow down if needed?

Finding a program that matches your student’s learning preferences, like allowing them to set their own pace with coursework, will help keep them motivated and engaged, especially if they need extra flexibility due to work, sports or other commitments.

Learn more about how flexibility can accelerate your student’s learning in our blog, Top Strategies to Earn High School Credits Quickly.

“Choosing an accredited online high school was the best decision for our family. It gave our daughter the flexibility she needed while still offering rigorous coursework.”

—ASU Prep parent

Student support services: Ensuring success beyond the classroom

Even in an online setting, students need access to support services that help them thrive academically and emotionally. Robust online high schools will provide a variety of resources, including:

• Academic advising to guide students on course selections and future college or career paths
• Tutoring services for extra help with challenging subjects
• College counseling to assist with applications, scholarships and career exploration
• Social and emotional support through guidance counselors, peer interaction and extracurricular activities

Before choosing a program, inquire about the level of support offered:

• Does the school provide one-on-one coaching?
• Are teachers easily accessible for questions or additional instruction?

Strong support services can make all the difference in ensuring your student stays on track and feels supported throughout their online high school experience.

Technology and learning tools: A seamless learning experience

A seamless online education experience relies on access to reliable technology and user-friendly platforms. Investigate the school’s learning management system (LMS) and the technology requirements needed to participate fully in their program.

Questions to consider:

• Is the platform intuitive and easy to navigate?
• Does the school provide tech support if issues arise?
• Are there opportunities for students to engage with their peers and teachers through discussion forums or virtual classrooms?

An effective online high school will have modern, accessible tools that make learning enjoyable and efficient, without overwhelming students with technical difficulties.

Affordability: Finding the right balance through online learning

The cost of online high schools can vary widely. Some schools are tuition-free, while others come with significant costs, especially if they offer advanced programs, AP courses or college-level classes. When comparing schools, take into account not just tuition fees, but also any additional costs for technology, textbooks or extracurricular activities.

If budget is a concern, explore whether the school offers financial aid, scholarships or payment plans to help make tuition more affordable. Keep in mind that the most expensive option isn’t always the best—what matters most is finding a school that provides a balance of quality and affordability to meet your family’s needs.

Conclusion: Finding the best fit for your student

Choosing an online high school is a personal decision that should reflect your student’s academic goals, learning style and support needs. By carefully considering the factors of accreditation, curriculum quality, flexibility, student support, technology and affordability, you can find the right fit for your student’s unique path.

Considering Global Academy at ASU Prep for your student?

In the dynamic world of education, online learning opens doors to countless possibilities beyond the traditional classroom. ASU Prep stands at the forefront of this educational revolution, offering personalized and innovative solutions to support students and families in crafting unique educational journeys. 

As part of our commitment to transformative educational solutions, we offer Global Academy at ASU Prep, the premier nationally accredited grades 6-12 online private school for full- and part-time students from around the world. We provide personalized instruction featuring one-on-one feedback via video chats, phone calls, texts and emails, all delivered by professionally certified, full-time digital teachers. Our engaging curriculum integrates online and interactive activities, ensuring competitive tuition rates while fostering a supportive learning environment.

We focus on enhancing academic success through a diverse array of online courses, tailored for both digital and blended learning experiences. As an extension of Arizona State University, we offer high school students the unique opportunity to earn university credit, accelerating their paths to college and career success.

Join an upcoming online information session to learn more about how our full- and part-time programs, designed by digital learning experts, create an empowering environment where every student can thrive and take charge of their educational journey, paving the way for a bright and successful future.

What to consider when choosing an online high school FAQs

Why is accreditation important for an online high school?

Accreditation ensures that the school meets quality standards and that credits earned are recognized by colleges and employers. Global Academy at ASU Prep offers accredited programs designed to meet your students’ educational needs.

What should I look for in an online high school curriculum?

Look for a challenging curriculum that offers core subjects, AP or honors courses and electives that align with your student’s academic goals. Global Academy at ASU Prep has a rigorous curriculum that prepares students for college, careers and life.

How can online high schools support student success?

Strong support services such as academic advising, tutoring and college counseling help ensure that students stay on track and receive the guidance they need. Global Academy at ASU Prep students are equipped with the resources and support they need from the very beginning.

While the pandemic of 2020 saw a rise in online learning, the truth is that digital curriculum and online schooling have been around for much longer. So what is a digital curriculum and why is it the key to many students’ success?

Digital curriculum refers to educational content and materials that are delivered electronically, typically through online platforms, rather than in traditional physical formats like textbooks or printed worksheets. Virtual learning is often considered the future of education, and digital curriculum plays a part, offering several advantages over in-person curriculum.

Digital curriculum provides flexibility and accessibility, allowing learners to access materials anytime, anywhere, and at their own pace, accommodating diverse learning styles and schedules. Going beyond the typical book learning, digital curriculum often incorporates interactive elements such as videos, simulations, and quizzes to enhance student engagement and understanding.

They also enable personalized learning experiences that tailor content to individual student needs and track progress more efficiently. Where books and paper curriculum are bound by their publishing date, digital curriculum can be easily updated to reflect the latest research and developments, ensuring that students have access to current and relevant information. Not to mention, digital curriculum is much more sustainable than the process of printing textbooks and paper materials.

The adaptability, interactivity, and scalability of digital curriculum makes it a compelling alternative to traditional in-person instruction, taking students beyond education and equipping them with skills for a digital era and the jobs of the future.

How to transition from traditional to digital curriculum

How can teachers, schools, and administrators take advantage of all the benefits that digital curriculum offers? Administrators can encourage adapting digital formats of classroom materials for virtual learning in schools. This strategy supports tech-driven learning and prepares the students at their schools for the future.

Transitioning from traditional curriculum to digital lessons is easier than ever. There are plenty of online resources that teachers can familiarize themselves with in order to adapt their classroom for the modern digital era of learning. Teachers can integrate digital apps and tools into their teaching methods, lesson plans, and class models.

Implementing a digital curriculum involves creating engaging digital lesson plans, which supports student engagement overall. Transitioning from traditional to digital may be a learning curve at first, but the benefits are undeniable!

What are the benefits of digital curriculum?

Online curriculum learning offers a range of benefits that cater to the diverse needs and preferences of learners. The flexibility and accessibility of digital classes allows students to access educational materials anytime, anywhere, and at their own pace. This flexibility accommodates various learning styles and schedules, empowering students to take control of their education.

Digital curriculum and online learning often incorporate interactive elements such as videos, games, and quizzes, enhancing engagement and understanding. Teachers can even use digital platforms for personalized learning with adaptive algorithms to tailor content to individual students and track progress effectively.

Benefits for students

Digital curriculum and learning offer many benefits that revolutionize the educational experience for students from elementary school, to middle school, high school, and beyond. With the power of technology at their fingertips, students can delve into a world of endless knowledge, exploring concepts through interactive simulations, immersive videos, and dynamic online resources.

Beyond the confines of traditional and often outdated curriculum, digital learning provides flexibility, allowing students to tailor their learning path to their individual needs and pace. Whether it’s reviewing concepts at their own convenience or accessing supplementary materials to deepen understanding, digital curriculum empowers students to take control of their education.

Beyond the academic benefits, digital curricula fosters collaboration and communication, breaking down geographical barriers and connecting students with peers and experts from around the globe. Through forums, virtual classrooms, and collaborative projects, students can engage in meaningful discussions, exchange ideas, and develop critical thinking and interpersonal skills essential for success in the digital age. In essence, digital curriculum and learning not only expand the horizons of what students can learn but also how they learn, equipping them with the tools and skills needed to thrive in an ever-evolving world.

Benefits for teachers

The benefits of digital learning are clear for students, but what about teachers?

Implementing digital curriculum, tools, and resources into lessons is a game changer for teachers. Utilizing a digital curriculum streamlines lesson planning and delivery, saving teachers valuable time and allowing them to personalize their students’ learning experiences.

Online courses provide access to diverse online classroom materials and resources to broaden students horizons. With digital classroom tools that assess students, create modules, and incorporate research-based learning, teachers are fully equipped to guide students like never before.

Ultimately, digital curriculum empowers teachers to create dynamic and engaging learning experiences while streamlining administrative tasks, allowing teachers to do what they do best—connect with students.

Benefits for schools

Embracing digital curriculum in schools opens up an incredible amount of possibilities, sparking excitement and innovation in both classrooms and beyond.

By tapping into cost-effective digital resources, schools can stretch their budgets while providing a wealth of educational content for students. Gone are the days of traditional boundaries; with web-based digital curriculum, learning extends far beyond the confines of the classroom, embracing remote education and reaching students wherever they may be.

But it’s not just about access; digital curriculum ignites a spirit of creativity, inspiring educators to craft lessons that are as dynamic and vibrant as the digital world itself. And the best part? It’s always evolving!

With the ability to update lesson plans on the fly, schools can stay on the cutting edge, ensuring students are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills. Plus, diving into the digital realm enhances tech integration and cultivates digital literacy, preparing students for success in a world where technology reigns supreme. It’s about opening a limitless wave of innovation and possibility that transforms education into an adventure.

How to implement digital curriculum in your classroom

Implementing digital curriculum into schools offers a dynamic approach that caters to the diverse needs and preferences of learners. By harnessing digital learning materials and digital devices, schools can accommodate various learning styles, ensuring that every student has access to resources that resonate with them.

Integrating digital technologies along with digital media fosters student engagement, transforming learning into an immersive and captivating experience. Integrating applied digital skills into lesson plans infuses real-world relevance, equipping students with essential competencies for success beyond the classroom.

In the face of evolving educational landscapes, digital curriculum can seamlessly adapt to remote learning environments, ensuring continuity and accessibility for all students, regardless of their location. Next we’ll cover some of the basics on implementing digital curriculum into your school or classroom.

Steps to integrate digital curriculum

The first step to integrating a digital curriculum is to get familiar with the digital tools and resources available. It’s important that educators choose something that aligns with their overall learning objective and any curriculum standards at the district, state, or national level if applicable.

Once you have an understanding of what is available, you can begin to incorporate and customize digital lesson plans. This is a great opportunity to utilize tablets and apps to introduce digital learning in an interactive and engaging format for students. Incorporating digital literacy skills through these types of tools is a great way to enhance tech proficiency.

Another great tool is AI. It can be used to generate personalized learning experiences, create assessments, and help educators save time. With all of these great tools and resources available, it’s crucial to remember that it takes time and training to adjust. Make sure that students and educators have adequate training and support in order to navigate whatever digital platform is implemented.

Necessary tools for digital curriculum

With so many tools and resources available it can be overwhelming to narrow down all the options. But before deciding on a digital curriculum to implement in your school or district it’s important to look for a few features:

• • Interactivity: select a curriculum that uses audio-visual aids to engage students and enhance learning.
  • Individualization: look for a curriculum with mastery-based learning that can be individualized for each student to ensure each student thrives.
  • Accessibility: choose a curriculum that includes access to tools and resources that will make learning accessible to any student.
  • Platform Functionality: if you don’t already have one, ask if the curriculum comes with a learning management platform to help manage the digital curriculum materials.

Educators and administrators may need to research a few different platforms or tools based on their needs. It can be daunting, but the benefits of using digital curriculum are well worth the effort it takes to find the best fit.

What to look for in a quality digital curriculum for schools

Now that you know the basics of digital curriculum, let’s take a look at what makes a quality digital curriculum. A quality digital curriculum encompasses various factors that prioritize student engagement, personalized learning, and skill development.

The curriculum should allow learners to progress at their own pace, accommodating individual learning styles and preferences. A diverse range of applied digital skills should be integrated into the curriculum, preparing students for success in the digital age.

A quality digital curriculum should be designed with consideration for diverse learner needs and abilities, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all students. A focus on tech literacy and digital media literacy equips students with essential competencies for navigating the digital world effectively.

It’s also important to note that the digital curriculum should align closely with educational standards and objectives, providing a structured framework for learning while allowing flexibility for innovation and creativity. By integrating these factors, a quality digital curriculum can deliver a comprehensive and engaging learning experience that empowers students to thrive in our ever-evolving society.

The role of teachers in digital curriculum

Teachers are the facilitators, guides, and mentors for students as they navigate through digital resources and tools. This requires teachers to not only have a strong understanding of technology, but also the ability to integrate it seamlessly into their teaching practices.

But teachers have a lot on their plate already—lesson planning, grading, managing classroom dynamics, and more. So how can they effectively incorporate digital curriculum into their already busy schedules? The key lies in providing teachers with the necessary support and training.

One of the most crucial aspects of successfully implementing a digital curriculum is ongoing professional development programs for teachers to ensure that they are equipped with the skills and knowledge to use digital curriculum in their classrooms. By ensuring teachers’ growth and development, schools set them up for success.

Schools and districts should consider investing in proper training and professional development opportunities. This includes not only technical training on how to use specific tools and platforms, but also pedagogical training on how to effectively integrate technology into their teaching methods.

Some providers like ASU Prep Global can provide everything schools need to implement digital curriculum, including lesson planning, digital tools, online resources, and customized professional development programs so your teachers are free to build relationships, foster collaboration, or tutor specialized content needs.

Adapting to technology-driven teaching

Adapting to technology-driven teaching involves harnessing the power of digital tools and resources to transform traditional classroom practices. Embracing digital lessons not only enhances classroom experiences but also opens up a world of possibilities for dynamic and interactive learning.

Technology empowers teachers to create engaging digital curriculum materials that captivate student interest and promote active participation. With digital curriculum, students have the flexibility to learn at their own pace, fostering a personalized learning experience that accommodates diverse learning styles and preferences.

Teachers can leverage AI and literacy apps to enhance their curriculum, providing tailored support and feedback to students while promoting digital literacy skills. Digital learning apps offer audio and visual support, catering to the needs of diverse learners and ensuring that all students have access to educational resources that suit their individual learning needs.

By incorporating all of these into the classroom, educators can effectively adapt to technology-driven teaching, creating dynamic and inclusive learning environments that prepare students for success in the digital age.

Teacher’s guide to effective digital curriculum instruction

To successfully implement a digital curriculum and harness its full potential, teachers can follow several key strategies:

1. Get familiar with the digital tools and platforms available for curriculum instruction, such as learning management systems, online resources, and interactive activities.
2. Choose the appropriate digital tools and resources that align with your curriculum objectives and students’ learning needs.
3. Develop a clear and organized structure for your digital curriculum, including lesson plans, assignments, assessments, and any necessary instructions or guidelines for students.
4. Communicate clearly with students about expectations for their participation in the digital curriculum instruction, including deadlines, communication channels, and technological requirements.
5. Provide opportunities for students to practice using the digital tools and resources before starting the actual instruction to ensure they are comfortable with them.
6. Incorporate a variety of engaging multimedia elements into your digital instruction to enhance student engagement and understanding, such as videos, interactive games, simulations, and virtual field trips.
7. Utilize student data from digital platforms to track progress and identify areas where additional support may be needed.
8. Facilitate discussions and collaboration among students through online forums or video conferencing tools to promote peer-to-peer learning.
9. Regularly check in with students to assess their understanding of the content and make any necessary adjustments to improve their learning experience.
10. Continuously seek out new resources and tools to keep your digital curriculum current and effective in meeting the needs of your students.

To get started with digital curriculum, teachers start by exploring tutorials tailored to their specific needs and objectives. ASU Prep Global has experience helping hundreds of educators get acclimated to digital curriculum, partnering with schools and teachers for professional learning and resources.

Challenges and solutions in implementing digital curriculum

As with all changes, implementing a digital curriculum is not without its challenges. But, we have the solutions you need to ensure a seamless transition and overcome these challenges.

By addressing these challenges and implementing proactive solutions, educators can unlock the full potential of their digital curriculum, fostering a dynamic and inclusive learning environment for all students.

Looking to license K–12 digital curriculum?

As educators, there are many factors to consider when integrating digital curriculum and virtual learning into your school. ASU Prep Global can help with comprehensive support to make digital learning hassle-free. Whether you need K–12 digital course licensing or an entire learning management system with teacher training, tech support, digital tools, and more, we can customize delivery based on your school or district’s online course needs.

ASU Prep Global partners with other K–12 schools to build new models of educational success, embed early college experiences and provide access to the latest innovative technologies, digital courseware, and professional development. We’re more than a curriculum provider—we’re an innovation partner to top schools and school districts.

We help our partners create high-impact, high-quality digital education that meets the unique needs of their learners and staff. For more than a decade, we’ve partnered with school leaders to help innovate learning for K–12 students and educators through Arizona State University led research, proven effective learning practices, and industry-leading online education technology.

Digital curriculum FAQs

What is digital learning curriculum?

Digital learning curriculum refers to educational materials and resources that are designed to be accessed and used online. This can include interactive lessons, videos, assessments, and other digital tools that support student learning. Incorporating digital curriculum can help prepare students and allow them to work at their own pace and access additional resources or support if needed. This can be especially beneficial for students who may struggle in a traditional classroom setting.

What are the benefits of using digital curriculum?

There are many benefits to incorporating digital curriculum into classroom instruction. For one, it allows for a more personalized and engaging learning experience for students. Digital materials often include multimedia elements such as videos, simulations, and games which can make learning more interactive and fun. Additionally, digital curriculum provides access to a wide range of resources that may not be available in traditional textbooks or print materials. This can expose students to diverse perspectives and enable them to explore topics in depth.

What kind of technologies are used in digital curriculum teaching?

There are various technologies that can be used in digital curriculum teaching, depending on the specific needs and goals of the lesson or course. Some common examples include learning management systems (LMS), online educational platforms, interactive whiteboards, video conferencing, and even virtual reality tools.