Tag: National School Choice Week

Es probable que usted haya encontrado esta página porque le gustaría saber más sobre las escuelas públicas chárter y si estas son una buena opción para su hijo o hija.  Cada año millones de padres de familia exploran sus opciones escolares  cerca de su domicilio para decidir dónde su hijo pasará el próximo año escolar. ¡Esa sí que es una decisión de peso!

En la Semana Nacional de Opciones Escolares, creemos firmemente que los padres de familia están capacitados para tomar decisiones sobre la educación de sus hijos, y es por eso por lo que ofrecemos guías con todas las opciones de escuelas, para que así usted lleve las riendas.  Si las escuelas chárter le parecen una buena opción, no está solo; cada año millones de familias en Estados Unidos escogen escuelas chárter.

[bctt tweet=”Tal vez usted esté pensando en elegir una escuela chárter para su hijo o hija. Pero ¿Cómo empieza y qué preguntas debería hacer? @SchoolChoiceWk tiene la guía completa para de escuelas chárter.” url=”” via=”no”]

Hemos recopilado esta guía gratuita para compartir lo que es una escuela chárter, responder sus preguntas sobre las escuelas chárter, enlaces a recursos en su estado y más.  ¡Haga clic en un botón de abajo para empezar!

¿Te gusta lo que ves? ¡Ingrese su correo electrónico para obtener más recursos educativos gratuitos!

¿Es esta la primera vez que navega por el sistema educativo en los Estados Unidos? Si es así, es esencial saber que la educación K-12 es obligatoria, gratuita y abierta a todos los niños de este país, independientemente de los ingresos familiares, el estado migratorio o la religión.

Cada familia tiene una escuela pública local asignada a la que es gratis asistir, pero en la mayoría de los lugares usted puede elegir entre otras escuelas públicas gratuitas como escuelas chárter, escuelas magnet o escuelas en línea; o seleccionar una escuela privada o educación en el hogar. Encuentre más información sobre la estructura del sistema educativo aquí y algunas preguntas frecuentes para padres migrantes de primera generación que buscan opciones de elección de escuela aquí.

 

¿Qué es una Escuela Chárter? (y preguntas frecuentes)

Escuela chárter vs. escuela pública: ¿Qué es una escuela chárter?

Las escuelas chárter son escuelas públicas creadas por distritos escolares, universidades, organizaciones sin fines de lucro, y otras entidades; a estas escuelas se les permite determinar muchos de sus propios reglamentos y prácticas; el objetivo es innovar dentro del sistema de las escuelas públicas.  Todas las escuelas chárter son públicas y no se les permite cobrar colegiatura o matrícula.  Actualmente hay más de 7,000 escuelas chárter en los Estados Unidos.

¿Pueden las escuelas chárter ser religiosas ?

Las escuelas públicas chárter son escuelas públicas y deben cumplir con las mismas leyes que las escuelas públicas tradicionales.  Por lo tanto, las escuelas chárter no son escuelas religiosas.

¿Están certificados los docentes de las escuelas chárter?

En la mayor parte, todos o la mayoría de los docentes en las escuelas públicas chárter deben contar con un certificado o licencia para enseñar expedido por el estado.  Cada estado tiene sus reglamentos para otorgar certificados o licencias a los docentes; algunos estados permiten vías alternas para certificarse.

 escuela-charter-estudiante-tiene-cartel-diciendo-yo-amo-mi-escuela

¿Pueden las escuelas chárter cobrar colegiatura?

No, las escuelas públicas chárter no cobran colegiatura ni cuota de admisión.  Los contribuyentes pagan los fondos a través de los impuestos locales, estatales, y federales.

¿Son las escuelas chárter organizaciones sin fines de lucro?

Las organizaciones, que en su gran mayoría son sin fines de lucro, son las que operan las escuelas públicas chárter.

¿Puede una escuela chárter ser Título 1?

Todas las escuelas chárter son escuelas públicas y están sujetas a los mismos requisitos de elegibilidad para el Título 1 que las escuelas públicas tradicionales.  Si cumplen con los requisitos, son elegibles para recibir fondos del Título 1.

¿Qué es una lotería en una la escuela chárter?

En muchos lugares hay más familias que desean asistir a las escuelas chárter que el número de asientos que permite la ley del estado o la capacidad en escuelas abiertas.  Cuando esto sucede, las escuelas utilizan una lotería para seleccionar a los estudiantes que inscribirán de una lista de espera.

Una lotería en la escuela chárter es normalmente “a ciegas”, lo que significa que cada estudiante que se inscribe tiene la misma posibilidad de entrar.  Sin embargo, algunas escuelas les dan preferencia a los estudiantes que continúan inscritos, estudiantes con hermanos que asisten a esa escuela, o grupos en riesgo si es que la justicia social es una de las misiones centrales de la escuela.  

dos estudiantes se paran en un patio de recreo

 

Cómo Cambiarse a una Escuela Chárter

1.Explore sus opciones de escuelas chárter:

Su primer paso es aprender más sobre las escuelas chárter cerca de usted. Utilice nuestra herramienta gratis para encontrar escuelas cerca de su domicilio, o la lista por estado que se encuentra abajo para encontrar su estado.  Ahí puede ver si hay escuelas chárter en su área.  Cada escuela chárter tiene una manera distinta de proceder, ¡así que usted debe encontrar la que más le convenga a su familia! Aunque las escuelas chárter aún deben cumplir con muchas de las reglas para las escuelas públicas, también cuentan con cierto grado de libertad para decidir cómo desean operar (el grado de libertad varía de estado a estado).

Las escuelas chárter pueden estar diseñadas para cumplir con las necesidades de grupos específicos de estudiantes (como a los que les interesan las artes o con diferentes estilos de aprendizaje) mientras que otros ofrecen un programa de estudios especializado (Montessori, Clásico, etc.).

2.Contacte a la escuela

El siguiente paso es comunicarse con la escuela chárter que usted siente que es una buena opción para su familia para obtener más información.  La inscripción en escuelas chárter varía de estado a estado – algunas tienen un periodo específico de inscripción abierta mientras que otras le permiten inscribirse en la escuela chárter en cualquier momento mientras haya lugar para su estudiante.  Las escuelas públicas chárter deben aceptar a todos los estudiantes sin importar su rendimiento o necesidades académicas.

Cuando se comunique con la escuela que le interesa, usted puede pedir que se les dé un recorrido de la escuela para saber más sobre lo que se espera de los estudiantes. Asegúrese de hacer preguntas que le ayuden a ver si esta es la escuela adecuada para su familia. por ejemplo, ¿Cuál es su enfoque educativo? ¿Qué hace única a su escuela? ¿Qué espera la escuela de los estudiantes académicamente?

3.Llene una solicitud:

Una vez que haya tomado una decisión sobre la escuela que llenará las necesidades de su estudiante, ¡pregunte cómo llenar una solicitud de inscripción! La escuela le informará si hay algo más que usted debe hacer.  Si hay más solicitudes que lugares disponibles en una escuela, es posible que la escuela chárter lleve a cabo una lotería para decidir cuáles estudiantes asistirán.

4.Inscriba a su estudiante e inicie:

Una vez que se acepte su solicitud, la escuela le proporcionará información sobre lo que necesitan antes de empezar.  Las siguientes son buenas preguntas que usted puede hacer: ¿Cómo se transferirán los documentos de mi estudiante? ¿Necesito llenar algún tipo de documento? ¿Qué información adicional necesitan antes de que inicie el año escolar? También asegúrese de informarle a su antigua escuela sobre el cambio y pregúnteles si hay algo que usted necesita hacer.  Como padre/tutor legal, usted puede pedirle a la escuela una copia del historial educativo de su estudiante.

Si su estudiante recibe algún servicio adicional, como un plan de intervención, Programa Educativo Individualizado, Plan 504, o un plan de respuesta a emergencia médica, asegúrese que una copia de esta información se le envíe también a su nueva escuela.

 

Escuelas Chárter Cerca de Usted

¿Con qué opciones de escuelas chárter cuenta usted? Visite la guía para padres de su estado o mire abajo para aprender sobre las escuelas chárter cerca de usted.

Como se muestra en este mapa, 45 estados y el Distrito de Columbia han aprobado leyes que permiten la creación de escuelas públicas chárter.  El número de estudiantes en escuelas chárter se ha más que duplicado en los últimos 10 años.

[custom_us_map type=”color” sector=”charter”]

Fuente: National Alliance for Public Charter Schools, 2019

Alabama:

Alabama promulgó una ley de escuelas chárter en el 2015, pero solo tenía una escuela chárter hasta el 2018.  Ese año, la segunda escuela chárter del estado – University Charter, administrada por la Universidad de West Alabama – abrió sus puertas. Ahora, este estado tiene cinco escuelas charter en operaciones.

Si le gustaría aprender más, visite New Schools for Alabama (Charter Schools).

Alaska:

Alaska aprobó leyes en 1995 relacionadas a las escuelas chárter y actualmente cuenta con 31 escuelas chárter que atienden más de 7,000 estudiantes.

Puede encontrar preguntas frecuentes sobre las escuelas chárter en Alaska en el sitio web del Departamento de Educación de Alaska.

Arizona:

Arizona es uno de los estados con más opciones escolares; los padres de familia pueden escoger entre cientos de escuelas chárter.  Para obtener más información sobre las escuelas chárter en su estado, visite Arizona Charter Schools Association, la Federacion de Niñoz en Arizona o busque una escuela cerca de usted en este listado.

Recientemente entrevistamos a una de las primeras escuelas chárter en Arizona, Benjamin Franklin Charter School.  Le preguntamos a la directora de educación de esta escuela chárter, Shalisa Arnold, cuál era uno de los mitos más comunes sobre las escuelas chárter en Arizona y esto fue lo que dijo: “Creo que hay una idea equivocada que las escuelas chárter cobran colegiatura.  No lo hacemos, y operamos con los mismos fondos que los distritos escolares.  Operamos bajo las mismas leyes y regulaciones que los distritos escolares tradicionales.  Cuando visitan nuestras escuelas, muchos padres sienten que reciben los servicios de una escuela privada, pero gratis”.

Arkansas:

En el 2018-2019, Arkansas contaba con alrededor de 86 escuelas públicas chárter de las cuales los padres podían escoger.  En Arkansas hay tanto escuelas de conversión como escuelas de inscripción abierta.  Las escuelas de conversión son escuelas públicas tradicionales que se han convertido en escuelas chárter.  Solo sirven a estudiantes dentro de su distrito.  Las escuelas chárter de inscripción abierta son administradas por una organización del gobierno, una organización de educación superior, o una organización no sectaria y pueden aceptar estudiantes de otros distritos.

Como dice el sitio Arkansas.gov, “Mas allá de los dos tipos básicos de escuelas chárter, los conceptos que se implementan en las escuelas chárter son tan amplios como la imaginación”.  Para ver un ejemplo de lo que las escuelas chárter les ofrecen a las familias de Arkansas, consulte nuestra conversación con LISA Academy, un sistema de escuelas de alto rendimiento enfocadas en Ciencia, Tecnología, Ingeniería y Matemáticas (STEM, por sus siglas en inglés).  Otra de las escuelas chárter con la que hablamos, Northwest Arkansas Classical Academy, pone a disposición de las familias una educación clásica en un ambiente de escuela pública gratuita. Si usted vive en Arkansas central, chequee este directorio de escuelas charter.

California:

California cuenta con cientos de escuelas públicas chárter que pueden verse en este directorio escolar.  Cada chárter tienen un enfoque particular y se esfuerza por cumplir un papel único en la comunidad local.  Cuando entrevistamos al director ejecutivo de una de las escuelas chárter más grandes de California, Granada Hills Charter School, ¡nos enteramos de que la escuela sirve a estudiantes de 60 países, quienes, en conjunto, hablan más de 40 idiomas!

Para más información sobre escuelas chárter en California, visite The California Charter Schools Association.

Colorado:

En el escolar 2020-2021, los padres pueden escogen entre más de 250 escuelas chárter en Colorado. Una de las opciones chárter más recientes por ejemplo es una escuela intermedia o middle school como se le conoce en ingles en Colorado Springs que tiene como centro su plan de estudio clásico.

Puede aprender más en Colorado League of Charter Schools.

Connecticut:

Los padres de Connecticut pueden escoger entre más de 20 escuelas públicas chárter. 

Para saber más sobre estas opciones, visite Northeast Charter Schools Network.

Delaware:

Delaware aprobó leyes que permiten las escuelas chárter en 1995.  Hoy, Delaware cuenta con más de 20 escuelas chárter activas.  Pueden encontrar la lista aquí.

Para saber más también puede visitar el sitio web de The Delaware Charter Schools Network.

Las familias interezadas en aplicar a alguna escuela charter en este estado, pueden hacerlo en SchoolChoiceDE.

Florida:

La Florida es uno de los estados líderes en opciones escolares, cuenta con más de 650 escuelas chárter.  Puede encontrar más información sobre las muchas escuelas públicas chárter de Florida aquí.

Usted también puede visitar The Florida Charter School Alliance, Florida School Choice y Florida Consortium of Public Charter Schools.

Georgia:

Georgia aprobó leyes relacionadas a las escuelas chárter en 1996.  Según el Departamento de Educación de Georgia, actualmente hay 115 escuelas chárter en el estado (no incluye a las escuelas dentro de sistemas de escuelas chárter).

Siete escuelas chárter nuevas han sido aprobadas y estaran en funcionamiento en el año 2022.

Usted puede encontrar preguntas frecuentes sobre estas escuelas aquí.  También puede aprender más en The Georgia Charter Schools Association.

Hawaii:

Hawái aprobó leyes relacionadas a las escuelas chárter en 1994.  En el 2019 las familias de Hawái podían escoger entre más de 35 escuelas chárter; usted puede encontrar una lista de las escuelas chárter de Hawái en el sitio web del Departamento de Educación del estado.

Idaho:

Idaho aprobó leyes relacionadas a las escuelas chárter en 1996.  Hoy, Idaho cuenta con 50 escuelas chárter físicas  como también varias escuelas chárter virtuales.  Una de las escuelas chárter más nuevas en el estado de Idaho tiene una como misión servir estudiantes embarazadas y padres adolescentes. Aprenda más sobre las escuelas chárter de Idaho en el Idaho Charter School Network.

A través del programa de Oportunidades Avanzadas del estado o por su nombre en ingles Advanced Opportunities program, cada estudiante de escuela pública en Idaho recibe $ 4,125 para usar en los grados 7-12. Estos fondos se pueden utilizar para créditos duales, tarifas de exámenes de ubicación avanzada, certificaciones profesionales, capacitación de la fuerza laboral u otros gastos calificados.

También puede visitar Coalition of Idaho Charter School Families.

Illinois: 

Illinois también cuenta con 130 escuelas públicas chárter, la mayoría de las cuales están en Chicago.  Estas son escuelas públicas gratuitas que regularmente están disponibles para cualquier tipo de estudiante.

Para obtener más información sobre las escuelas chárter en Illinois, visite The Illinois Network of Charter Schools y su panfleto en español.

Indiana:

Indiana abrió sus primeras once escuelas chárter en el 2002.  Hoy, hay más de 100 escuelas chárter a través del estado, proporcionando una importante opción educativa gratuita a las familias de Indiana. Dos de las escuelas chárter más nuevas en Indiana tienen como enfoque celebrar la cultura Hispana.

Las escuelas chárter de Indiana pueden recibir autorización de un cuerpo gobernante, una universidad, o el Comité de Escuelas Chárter de Indiana.

Aprenda más sobre las escuelas chárter de Indiana en The Indiana Charter Schools Network.

Iowa:

Iowa promulgó una ley sobre escuelas chárter en el 2003, sin embargo, solo hay dos escuelas chárter autorizadas durante el año escolar 2019-2020.  Se encuentran en Storm Lake y Maynard, Iowa. El estado de Iowa pasó una ley para expandir las escuelas chárter en el 2021. Por consiguiente grupos que deseen abrir una escuela chárter deben aplicar con el Departamento de Educación del estado en vez de la junta del districtor escolar.

Kansas:

Dependiendo de dónde usted vive en Kansas, es posible que usted pueda escoger una escuela pública chárter.  Kansas cuenta con 10 escuelas públicas chárter, y usted puede encontrar una lista en esta página.

Kentucky:

En el 2017, Kentucky se convirtió en el 44º estado en el país que permite escuelas chárter.  Sin embargo, hasta hoy no hay escuelas chárter abiertas en Kentucky debido a que aún no se ha aprobado el financiamiento permanente.  Por lo tanto, las escuelas chárter aun no son una opción viable para las familias de Kentucky, ¡pero podrian serlo en un futuro!

Para aprender más visite Kentucky Public Charter Schools Association.

Louisiana:

En Luisiana usted puede escoger entre más de 140 escuelas chárter.  Para obtener más información sobre las escuelas chárter en su estado, visite Louisiana Association of Public Charter Schools.

Maine:

La ley de Maine establece que solo se pueden autorizar 10 escuelas chárter en los primeros 10 años (2011-2021) de las escuelas chárter que se permiten en el estado.  La 10ma escuela chárter de Maine, The Ecology Learning Center, ha programado su apertura para el otoño del 2019.  Para obtener más información sobre las escuelas chárter en su estado, visite Maine Association of Charter Schools.

Maryland:

Los padres en Maryland pueden escoger entre 40 escuelas chárter, las cuales sirven a más de 22,000 estudiantes.

Para obtener más información sobre las escuelas públicas en su estado, visite Maryland Alliance of Public Charter Schools.

Massachusetts:

Actualmente los padres de Massachusetts pueden escoger entre más de 70 escuelas chárter; usted puede encontrar la lista aquí.

Aprenda más visitando Massachusetts Charter School Association.

Michigan:

Michigan cuenta con más de 300 escuelas chárter que las familias pueden considerar.

Una de las escuelas charter más nuevas del estado es KIPP Detroit: Imani Academy, que abrirá en el otoño de 2021 o 2022 como un programa de jardín de infantes.

Puede aprender más visitando Michigan Charter Schools Association o esta hoja del Departamente de Educación de Michigan.

Minnesota:

En Minnesota hay alrededor de 168 escuelas chárter que atienden a 63,000 niños.

Por ejemplo, hablamos con la directora ejecutiva de una escuela chárter y nos habló sobre el plan de estudios Core Knowledge que forma parte del plan de su escuela. “Una escuela de Core Knowledge brinda información a los niños a través de la narración oral, a través de la experiencia, y nosotros le agregamos a su conocimiento constantemente”, describió Lynn Peterson de Cologne Academy.

Obtenga más información sobre las escuelas chárter de Minnesota visitando MN Association of Charter Schools.

Mississippi:

En el 2010 Mississippi aprobó leyes que permiten las escuelas públicas.  Actualmente el estado cuenta con 7 escuelas chárter que atienden a alrededor de 1,500 estudiantes. Más escuelas chárter estan en proceso de aplicacion en el estado.

Missouri:

Las escuelas chárter son otra opción educativa pública y gratuita para las familias.  Actualmente Missouri solo cuenta con escuelas chárter en las áreas de St. Louis y Kansas City.

Puede obtener más información sobre las opciones de escuelas chárter en su estado visitando Missouri Charter Public School Association.

Montana:

Montana es actualmente uno de los pocos estados que no tienen escuelas públicas chárter, ¡pero las escuelas chárter pueden ser parte del futuro de Montana!

Nebraska:

Nebraska es uno de únicos cinco estados que no ha aprobado leyes que permitan la creación de escuelas públicas chárter.

Nevada:

Nevada cuenta con muchas escuelas públicas chárter que las familias pueden elegir. Un buen recurso para aprender sobre estas opciones es la Nevada School Choice Coalition o Charter School Association of Nevada.

New Hampshire:

En Nuevo Hampshire los padres cuentan con más de 30 escuelas públicas chárter para elegir.  Puede conocer estas opciones en New Hampshire Alliance for Public Charter Schools.

New Jersey:

De acuerdo con el Departamento de Educacion Nueva Jersey, el estado tiene 88 escuelas chárter que atienden a aproximadamente 52,000 estudiantes.

Consulte más información sobre las escuelas chárter de su estado en New Jersey Public Charter Schools Association.

New Mexico:

En Nuevo México los padres cuentan con más de 90 escuelas chárter para elegir.

Obtenga más información sobre las opciones de escuelas chárter en su estado en Public Charter Schools of New Mexico.

New York:

La primera escuela chárter de Nueva York abrió en 1999 en Harlem; hoy, hay 300 escuelas chárter en el estado de Nueva York, muchos de estas escuelas estan localizadas en la ciudad de Nueva York. Obtenga más información sobre estas opciones en Northeast Charter Schools Network, o en este artículo.

North Carolina:

Carolina del Norte cuenta con más de 180 escuelas públicas chárter.  Puede encontrar más información sobre estas en el sitio web del Departamento de Educación del estado aquí.

También puede consultar North Carolina Association for Public Charter Schools.

North Dakota:

Dakota del Norte es uno de los únicos cinco estados que aún no ha aprobado leyes que permiten las escuelas públicas chárter.

Ohio:

En Ohio, las escuelas chárter se denominan comúnmente “Escuelas Comunitarias o Community Schools en inglés“. Las escuelas comunitarias o escuelas chárter se han permitido en Ohio desde 1997.  Hoy en día hay más de 300 escuelas de este tipo.

Encuentre más información con School Choice Ohio o el Departamento de Educación de Ohio.

 

Oklahoma:

A fines de la década de 1990, Oklahoma aprobó un proyecto de ley que permitia que los distritos escolares de los condados de Tulsa y Oklahoma autorizaran escuelas chárter. Hoy en día, las escuelas chárter pueden ser autorizadas por cualquier distrito escolar y están disponibles en muchas partes de Oklahoma.  Familias en Oklahoma pueden elegir entre alrededor de 30 escuelas públicas chárter.

Puede obtener más información comuniquese con Oklahoma Public Charter School Association.

Oregon:

Las familias de Oregón actualmente pueden elegir entre más de 120 escuelas públicas chárter. El estado aprobó leyes sobre las escuelas chárter en 1999.

Puede obtener más información en League of Oregon Charter Schools.

Pennsylvania:

Las familias de Pensilvania pueden elegir entre más de 150 escuelas públicas chárter. Puede leer sobre estas opciones en Pennsylvania Coalition of Public Charter Schools o puede buscar más información con 143K Rising.

Hemos entrevistado a una variedad de escuelas chárter en Pensilvania con planes de estudio únicos: Tidouite Community Charter School está brindando una opción personal a una comunidad rural; Manchester Academic Charter Academy sirve a sus estudiantes con un fuerte programa de mentores; y el maestro y los estudiantes de Lincoln Charter School están difundiendo el mensaje positivo de que “incluso en tiempos difíciles, la gente hace buenas obras”.

Rhode Island:

Actualmente las familias de Rhode Island pueden elegir entre alrededor de 30 escuelas públicas chárter.  El estado aprobó leyes sobre las escuelas chárter en 1995.

Obtenga más información sobre las opciones de escuelas chárter de Rhode Island en The Rhode Island League of Charter Schools.

South Carolina:

Carolina del Sur aprobó leyes relacionadas a las escuelas chárter en 1996. Hoy en día, las familias de Carolina del Sur pueden elegir entre más de 75 escuelas chárter.

Puede obtener más información sobre estas opciones en Public Charter School Alliance of South Carolina.

South Dakota:

Dakota del Sur es uno de los únicos cinco estados que aún no ha aprobado leyes que permiten las escuelas públicas chárter.

Tennessee:

Tennessee cuenta con más de 100 escuelas chárter, muchas de ellas en Memphis. Tennessee aprobó leyes relacionadas a las escuelas chárter en 1997 y una de sus primeras escuelas chárter fue fundada en 2003.

Puede obtener más información sobre las opciones de escuelas chárter de su estado en el TN Charter School Center.

Texas:

Texas ha contado con escuelas chárter como una opción por más de 20 años.  En el 2018 había más de 750 escuelas chárter en Texas.

Puede leer más sobre estas ofertas chárter en Texas Public Charter Schools Association. También puede conectarse con madres que tienen hijos en escuelas chárter en Texas.

Utah:

En Utah los padres cuentan con más de 100 escuelas chárter para elegir; usted puede ver el mapa de las escuelas chárter aquí.

También puede obtener más información de The Utah Association of Public Charter Schools.

Vermont:

Vermont es uno de los únicos cinco estados que aún no ha aprobado leyes que permiten las escuelas públicas chárter.  Aunque las familias de Vermont aún no pueden elegir escuelas públicas chárter, ¡puede convertirse en una opción en el futuro!

Virginia:

Virginia aprobó leyes relacionadas a las escuelas chárter en 1998. Hoy, Virginia cuenta con ocho escuelas públicas chárter.  Usted puede encontrar una lista de ellas en esta página.

Washington:

Actualmente hay más de doce escuelas chárter en operación en Washington.  Estas se encuentran en Highline, Tukwila, Kent, Seattle, Tacoma, Walla Walla y Spokane y se pueden encontrar en esta lista.

Puede obtener más información en Washington State Charter Schools Association.

West Virginia:

Si bien aún no se ha abierto ninguna escuela chárter en West Virginia, el estado aprobó leyes que permiten las escuelas chárter en el 2019. En 2021, el estado aprobó una ley que creaba un nuevo autorizador de las escuelas chárter. También amplió la cantidad de escuelas chárter que podrían establecerse en un período de tres años; de tres a 10 escuelas. Y permitió hasta dos escuelas chárter virtuales en todo el estado. Un grupo está intentando abrir la primera escuela chárter de West Virginia para el otoño de 2022.

Wisconsin:

A partir del año escolar 2020-2021, las familias de Wisconsin pueden elegir entre 230 escuelas públicas chárter. Puede leer más en la página sobre escuelas chárter de Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction.

Wyoming:

Wyoming aprobó leyes relacionadas a las escuelas chárter en 1995.  Actualmente el estado cuenta con cuatro escuelas chárter; estas se encuentran en Riverton, Laramie y Cheyenne.

 

Washington DC:

La legislación sobre escuelas charter en Washington, D.C. se convirtió en ley en 1996. Hoy en día, hay más de 100 escuelas autónomas en el distrito. Puede postularse a las escuelas públicas charter participantes a través de la lotería de escuelas públicas My School DC, y puede encontrar una lista completa de las escuelas autónomas públicas de D.C.

Obtenga más información en DC Charter School Alliance.

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Traditional public schools do not charge tuition. They are managed by school districts and do not require students to pass tests to enroll.
Public charter schools do not charge tuition. They are usually managed by nonprofit organizations and do not require students to pass tests to enroll.
Public magnet schools do not charge tuition. They are managed by school districts and focus on themes, such as math, science, technology, and the arts.
Private schools charge tuition, but scholarships are often available via state programs or by individual schools. Private schools are privately managed and can be faith-based or secular.
Grade Levels

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Fuente: The School Choice Roadmap, por Andrew Campanella

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Escuelas charter

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La información en esta guía está diseñada para ayudar a las familias que están considerando las escuelas chárter en su proceso de toma de decisiones. Nuestra misión es proporcionar a las familias la información que necesitan sobre todas las opciones escolares disponibles (escuela pública tradicional, escuela pública chárter, escuela pública magnet, privada, en línea y en el hogar) para que puedan elegir la opción adecuada para su hijo.  Para obtener más guías sobre cómo elegir otro tipo de escuelas, haga clic aquí.

The Ultimate Guide to Public Charter Schools

You’ve probably come across this ultimate guide to charter schools because you’re curious about public charter schools and whether they’d be a good fit for your son or daughter. Like millions of parents every year, you’re looking up schools near you to figure out what your options are and where your child will spend the next academic year. Talk about a big decision!

At School Choice Week, we strongly believe that parents are best equipped to make education decisions for their children, which is why we provide a guide to all school options, putting you in the driver’s seat. If charter schools make your shortlist, you’ll be in good company. Each year, millions of American families choose charter schools. 

It is important that every child receives a quality education that suits their individual learning style. Public charter schools are a great way to ensure this. These schools are free, open to everyone, and provide a variety of options to meet the unique needs of each child.

We’ve put together this free starter guide to share a charter school definition, answer your charter school questions, link to resources in your state, and more. Click a button below to get started!

What do you need to know about public charter school choice?

Get the facts!

 

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What is a Charter School? (and more FAQ)

Charter school vs. public school: What is a charter school?

Charter schools are public schools that are created by school districts, colleges, nonprofit organizations, or other entities. These schools are allowed to determine many of their own policies and practices; the goal is to innovate within the public school system and provide options for public school families. Charter schools are always public schools and are not allowed to charge tuition. The first law enabling charter schools was passed in Minnesota in 1991. Thirty years later, there are about 7,800 charter schools in the U.S. serving about 7% of students nationwide.

Can charter schools be religious?

Public charter schools receive public funds and must follow many of the same laws as traditional public schools. There are not currently any religious charter schools open to students. However, in June 2023, Oklahoma approved the nation’s first religious charter school, St. Isidore of Seville Catholic Virtual School, which plans to open in 2024.

Are charter school teachers certified?

For the most part, all or most teachers in public charter schools must be certified or licensed by the state to teach.  Each state has its own teacher certification or licensure policies; some states do allow for alternate pathways to certification.

Can charter schools charge tuition?

Public charter schools do not charge tuition or entrance fees.  As with other public schools, funding is paid by taxpayers in the form of local, state, and federal taxes. You can explore per-pupil spending for public schools, including charter schools, at Project Nickel.

In some cases, charter schools do not provide free transportation, so this may be worth asking about if you are considering a charter school.

Are charter schools nonprofit?

Public charter schools are operated by organizations, which a vast majority of the time are nonprofit.

Can a charter school be Title 1?

All charter schools are public schools, and are subject to the same Title I eligibility requirements as traditional public schools. If they meet the requirements, then they are eligible to receive Title 1 funding.

What is a charter school lottery?

In many places, there are more families who want to attend charter schools than there are seats allowed by state law or capacity in opened schools. When this happens, schools use lotteries to select which students to enroll from their waitlist.

A typical charter school lottery is ‘blind,’ meaning that every student who signs up has an equal chance of getting in. However, some schools do give preference to returning students, students with siblings attending the school, or at-risk groups, if social justice is a core mission of the school.

How to Switch to a Charter School

1. Explore your charter school options:

Your first step is to learn more about the charters located near you! You can use our free Schools Near Me tool to locate charter schools near your zip code. Or, see the state list below to learn about charters in your state. Each charter school has a different way of doing things, so you will need to find the best fit for your family! While charters still need to meet many of the public school regulations, they also have some freedom to decide how they want to run (the amount of freedom varies by state). Some charter schools are designed to meet the needs of specific populations of students (such as those interested in the arts or those with different learning styles) while others offer a specialized curriculum (Montessori, Classical curriculum, etc.). As you explore options, look for a school that will provide the individualized attention your child needs.

2.Connect:

Next, reach out to the charter school that you feel would be a good fit for your family to get more information. Enrollment in charter schools varies by state – some have a specific window for open enrollment while others allow you to enroll in the charter school at any time (provided there is space for your student). Public charter schools must accept all students, regardless of their academic performance or needs.

When you reach out to the school you are interested in, you can ask to take a tour of the building and learn more about what is expected of students.  Ask questions that will help you learn if this is the right fit for your family. For example: What is your approach to education? What makes your school unique? What are your school’s academic expectations for students?

3.Fill out an application:

Once you have decided on the charter school that will meet the needs of your student, ask how you fill out an application for enrollment. The school will let you know if there is anything else you need to do besides the paperwork. If there are more applicants to a school than available seats, a charter school may hold a random lottery to decide which students get to attend.

4.Enroll and get started:

Once your application has been accepted, the school will provide you with information regarding what they need prior to you joining the school.  Some good questions to ask: How will my student’s records be transferred?  Do I need to fill any paperwork out?  What additional information do you need prior to the school year beginning?  Also, be sure to let your previous school know that you will be transferring and ask them if there is anything you need to do on their end. As a parent/legal guardian, you can ask the school for a copy of your student’s educational record.  If your student has any additional services, such as an intervention plan, Individualized Education Plan, 504 plan, or medical response plan, make sure that a copy of this information gets sent to the new school as well.

Charter Schools Near You

What options do you have for charter schools? Check out your state’s parent guide or scroll below to learn about charter schools near you.

As shown on this map, 46 states and the District of Columbia have passed laws allowing for the creation of public charter schools. The number of students in charter schools has more than doubled in the last 10 years.

AL AK AZ AR CA CO CT DE FL GA HI ID IL IN IA KS KY LA ME MD MA MI MN MS MO MT NE NV NH NJ NM NY NC ND OH OK OR PA RI SC SD TN TX UT VT VA WA WV WI WY DC

Permitted     Not permitted     Permitted, but none available yet

Source: National Alliance for Public Charter Schools, 2023; Independent research by NSCW

Alabama:

Alabama enacted a charter school law in 2015, but only had one charter school until 2018. That year, the state’s second charter school — University Charter, operated by the University of West Alabama — opened. As of 2023, Alabama has at least 14 operating charter schools, with more in the approval process. For example, Alabama’s first performing arts charter school is approved to open in 2024 in Mobile. Additionally, Alabama recently passed a law modifying its charter school law to encourage more growth.

If you’d like to learn more, check out New Schools for Alabama (Charter Schools) or the Alabama State Department of Education’s charter school resources.

 

Alaska:

Alaska passed charter school legislation in 1995 and currently has more than 30 charter schools that serve more than 7,000 students. For example, one of Alaska’s newest charter schools is Knik Cultural School, which offers Alaska Native culture and values-based learning opportunities, such as fishing, moose hunting, and berry picking!

Find frequently asked questions about Alaska charter schools at Alaska’s Department of Education & Early Development.

 

Arizona:

Arizona is one of the most choice-rich states; it has more than 500 charter schools that parents can choose from. In fact, at least 84% of Arizona students have access to at least one charter in their area. For more information on charter schools in your state, check out the Arizona Charter Schools Association. Families in the metro-Phoenix area may also be interested in Raising Arizona Kids’ annual guide to all nearby charters.

 

“Because we are not restricted by boundaries, we are able to welcome any family that is looking for something more than what their neighborhood school offers in a caring, wholesome environment. Many parents choose to be a part of something special with us because we provide an ‘A’ rated education and family-friendly amenities such as affordable before- and after- school childcare and free school supplies. We take pride in removing barriers to an excellent, tuition-free education.”

Diana Dana, Director of Education at Benjamin Franklin Charter School
 

Arkansas:

As of 2023, Arkansas has about 95 public charter schools for parents to choose from. In Arkansas there are both conversion schools and open-enrollment schools. Conversion schools are traditional public schools that have converted to charter schools. They usually only serve students within their district. Open-enrollment charter schools are run by a governmental entity, higher learning organization, or non-sectarian organization and can draw students from various districts. In 2023, the LEARNS Act eliminated a cap on the number of charter schools that can be opened by nonprofit organizations in the state, paving the way for more schools.

As Arkansas Department of Education puts it, “Beyond the two basic types of charters, the concepts put in place by a public charter school are as broad as the imagination.” For one example of what charter schools offer Arkansas families, check out LISA Academy, a system of high-performing STEM charter schools. Another Arkansas charter school we talked to, Founders Classical Academy, makes classical education available to families in a free, public school environment.

 

California:

The first charter school in California opened in 1994 in San Carlos. Today, about one in nine of California’s public school students attend a charter school. The state has around 1,000 charter schools, which can be found in this school directory. 

Each charter has a particular focus and strives to fill a unique role in the local community. When we interviewed the executive director of one of California’s largest charter schools, Granada Hills Charter School, we learned that the school serves students from 60 countries who, collectively, speak more than 40 languages! Meanwhile, one of California’s newest charter schools is California Republic Leadership Academy Capistrano, which focuses on classical education and leadership. For more info about California charters, check out The California Charter Schools Association.

 

Colorado:

As of 2023, Colorado has more than 260 charter schools that parents can choose from. Colorado has classical charter schools, charter schools that focus on athletic leadership, and much more.

More than 15% of Colorado students attend charter schools, placing Colorado in the top three states for proportion of students attending charter schools.

You can learn more at the Colorado League of Charter Schools.

 

Connecticut:

Connecticut passed a charter school law in 1996 and now has more than 20 public charter schools that parents can choose from. While no new charter school has opened in the state since 2015, an all-boys charter school is currently in the pipeline to open in New Haven. 

New for 2023: While Newark Enrolls has been a common application platform for traditional public schools and charter schools in the past, seven charter networks have now switched to a new enrollment platform called the Newark Common App. Families interested in North Star Academy, KIPP, Great Oaks Legacy, Marion P. Thomas, Achieve Community, People’s Preparatory, and Philip’s Academy should use the Newark Common App moving forward.

To learn more about charter options in your state, check out the Northeast Charter Schools Network. 

 

Delaware:

Delaware passed charter school legislation in 1995. Today, Delaware has more than 20 active charter schools – you can find a complete list at the Department of Education. As of 2022, about 18,000 Delaware students attended charter schools, which is about 12% of the public school population.

To learn more, you can also check out The Delaware Charter Schools Network.

Families interested in submitting choice applications for participating charter schools in Delaware can do so online at SchoolChoiceDE.

 

Florida:

Florida, one of the leading states in school choices, has more than 720 charter schools. Currently, about 382,300 of all K-12 students in Florida are enrolled in a charter school. Each school’s charter explains the school’s purpose and what specific community need it serves. Indian River Charter High School, for instance, provides unique training and opportunities for students interested in the performing arts. Tallahassee Collegiate Academy, one of Florida’s newest charters, is a STEM high school authorized by Tallahassee Community College.

You can find more information on Florida’s many public charter schools at the Florida Department of Education. You may also wish to check out The Florida Charter School Alliance and the Florida Consortium of Public Charter Schools.

Keep in mind that charter school students (and traditional public school students) in grades K-5 who are performing below grade level may be eligible for the state’s New World Scholarship Program, which provides scholarships and resources for students who need additional literacy or math support.

 

Georgia:

According to the Georgia Department of Education, there are currently 115 charter schools (not including schools within charter systems) in the state. One of the newest is Atlanta SMART Academy, one of only four performing arts middle schools in Georgia.

Charters are growing in Georgia! The State Charter Schools Foundation of Georgia was awarded a large grant by the U.S. Department of Education in 2022 to expand charter schools in the state.

For more, check out these frequently asked questions about charter schools in Georgia at the Department of Education. You can also keep learning at The Georgia Charter Schools Association.

 

Hawaii:

Hawaii passed charter school legislation in 1994. As of 2019, Hawaii had more than 35 charter schools that families could choose from; you can find a list of Hawaii’s charter schools on the Hawaii State Department of Education website. The list includes charter schools focused on sustainability, the arts, technology, and more. One of the newest charter schools approved by the Public Charter School Commission is Namahama School, which plans to open in 2025.

 

Idaho:

Idaho passed charter school legislation in 1996. Today, Idaho has more than 50 brick-and-mortar charter schools, as well as several virtual charter schools, that parents can choose from. You can find a complete list at the Idaho Department of Education. Idaho’s charters are diverse. For example, one of the state’s newest charters, Elevate Academy Idaho Falls, offers career technical education for at-risk students.

As public school students, charter students have access to the state’s Advanced Opportunities program. Through this program, every public school student in Idaho is allocated $4,125 to use in grades 7-12. These funds can be used for dual credits, Advanced Placement Exam fees, professional certifications, workforce training, or other qualified expenses.

Learn more about Idaho’s charter schools from the Idaho Charter School Network. You may also wish to check out the Coalition of Idaho Charter School Families.

 

Illinois: 

Illinois has more than 130 public charter schools, most of which are located in Chicago. These charter schools are free public schools that serve diverse student bodies. About 85% of Illinois charter school students receive free or reduced lunch, and about 14% are enrolled in special education

For more information on charter schools in your Illinois, check out the Illinois Network of Charter Schools. The Illinois State Board of Education also has a charter school locator.

 

Indiana:

Indiana opened its first eleven charter schools in 2002. Today, there are more than 110 charter schools across the state, providing an important tuition-free education option for families. Two of the state’s newest charter choices, for example, focus on celebrating Latino culture and addressing learning disparities.

Indiana’s charter schools may be authorized by a governing body, a college, or the Indiana Charter School Board. The National Alliance of Public Charter Schools has ranked Indiana the top state in the nation for having strong public charter school laws. Learn more about Indiana’s charter schools at the Indiana Charter Schools Network.

 

Iowa:

Iowa enacted a charter school law in 2003 and there are now five charter schools in the state, including a hybrid online school for students across Iowa. The newest charter school is Horizon Science Academy in Des Moines.

The state passed a charter school expansion law in 2021. Now, groups looking to start a charter school can apply directly to the state Department of Education for approval (rather than their local school board).

 

Kansas:

Depending on where you live in Kansas, you may also be able to choose a public charter school. Kansas charter school legislation passed in 1994. Today, Kansas has 9 public charter schools.

                                                      

Kentucky:

Currently, there are no charter schools in Kentucky because permanent funding for charters was not approved until spring 2022. Although funding measures were approved, in December 2023, the bill was considered unconstitutional.

 

Louisiana:

In Louisiana, you can choose from about 150 charter schools. These schools can be opened after they are authorized by school districts or the state. Louisiana charter schools offer a rich variety of themes and learning styles. For example, one of the newest charter schools in Louisiana is Great Hearts Harveston, a classical school serving grades K-7.

For more information on charter schools in your state, check out the Louisiana Association of Public Charter Schools.

 

Maine:

Under Maine law, only 10 charter schools are currently able to operate in the state due to a charter school cap. Maine’s 10th charter school, The Ecology Learning Center, opened in 2020. However, one of Maine’s charter schools, Harpswell Coastal Academy, just closed at the end of the 2022-2023 school year, creating an opportunity for a new charter to open.

As of 2023, more than 2,700 students in Maine attend charters. For more information on charter schools in your state, check out the Maine Charter School Commission.

 

Maryland:

Maryland has about 50 charter schools that parents can choose from. In Maryland, charter school lotteries are usually held at the beginning of the calendar year. 

For more information on charter schools in your state, check out the Maryland Alliance of Public Charter Schools.

 

Massachusetts:

Massachusetts currently has more than 70 charter schools that parents can choose from. You can find a list of these schools at the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Massachusetts’ newest charter school is Worchester Cultural Academy, which offers project-based learning and fieldwork in collaboration with museums and cultural organizations in central Massachusetts.

In Massachusetts, there are state caps on the number of students who can attend a charter school. Learn more from the Massachusetts Charter School Association.

 

Michigan:

Michigan has more than 360 charter schools that families can consider. These schools can be opened after they are authorized by school districts or colleges and universities. One of the state’s newest charter schools is KIPP Detroit: Imani Academy, which opened in 2022 as a kindergarten program.

Michigan’s charters are diverse. For example, the West Michigan Aviation Academy even allows students to earn flight certifications and private pilot licenses! You can learn more from the Michigan Charter Schools Association.

 

Minnesota:

In Minnesota, there are about 250 charter schools serving 65,000 children. The majority of charter schools are located in the greater Twin Cities metro area, but there are charters across the state.

Minnesota’s charters offer a diversity of learning styles. One charter school executive director we talked to told us about the Core Knowledge curriculum that is part of her school’s charter. “A Core Knowledge school gives kids information through oral telling, through experience, and we add on to their knowledge all the time,” described Lynn Peterson of Cologne Academy.

Learn more about Minnesota charter schools at the MN Association of Charter Schools.

 

Mississippi:

2023 marks the 10th anniversary of the Mississippi Charter Schools Act. Currently, Mississippi has ten authorized charter schools serving about 3,000 students. These charter schools have diverse focuses that range from STEM to college prep. For example, the state’s newest charter schoolInstant Impact Global Prep, focuses on STEM learning and community engagement.

 

Missouri:

Currently, Missouri only has charter schools in the St. Louis and Kansas City areas. There are more than 60 charter schools between the two cities with focuses such as science, language immersion, and leadership. You can learn more about your state’s charter school options at Missouri Charter Public School Association.

 

Montana:

In 2023, Montana became the 46th state in the country to officially pass allow charter school laws. So far, Montana has just one charter school, the Bozeman Charter School, which currently offers remote learning and in-person field trips for students in grades 3-8.

You can read more about Montana’s new charter laws in our full explainer.

 

Nebraska:

Nebraska does not offer any charter choices at present. Nebraska is one of only four states that has not passed laws allowing for the creation of public charter schools.

 

Nevada:

In Nevada, there are about 90 charter schools that families can choose from. These schools serve about 55,000 students across the state and offer programs that range from early college high schools to STEM middle schools.

In Nevada, public charter schools don’t currently receive state transportation funding, so in many cases families must transport their charter students. A great resource for learning about Nevada’s many charter schools is the Charter School Association of Nevada.

 

New Hampshire:

In New Hampshire, there are about 30 public charter schools that parents can choose from across the state. These served 5,530 students in 2022-2023. These schools are authorized either by school districts or the state.

The New Hampshire Department of Education is currently in the process of supporting an expansion of charter schools across the state. One of New Hampshire’s newest charter schools is Benjamin Franklin Academy, a middle-high school opening in Loudon with a history-centered, liberal arts curriculum.

You can learn about these options at the New Hampshire Alliance for Public Charter Schools.

 

New Jersey:

According to the New Jersey Department of Education, the state has about 90 charter schools in operation serving approximately 57,000 students. You can search these charter schools by county at the New Jersey Department of Education. Families in Newark may also wish to explore charter schools using My Schools Newark.

Many New Jersey charter schools have had waitlists in the past. In January 2023, the New Jersey Department of Education approved 11 charter school expansions, which will open an additional 2,299 charter school seats for students across nine cities and towns.

Check out more about your state’s charter schools at the New Jersey Public Charter Schools Association.

 

New Mexico:

New Mexico has about 100 charter schools that parents can choose from; these schools serve nearly 30,000 students. You can find a directory of charter schools and authorizers in the state at the New Mexico Public Education Department. Charters are especially popular in Santa Fe, where nearly 1 in 4 students attend a charter school.

Learn more about charter school options in your state from Public Charter Schools of New Mexico.

 

New York:

New York’s first charter school opened in 1999 in Harlem. Today, there are more than 350 charter schools across the state, with many of these located in New York City. Currently there is a cap limiting the number of charter school licenses available in New York City. As part of New York’s budget passed in 2023, up to 14 new charters can be opened in New York City, and up to eight elsewhere in the state.

Learn more about charter options at the Northeast Charter Schools Network or at New York Family’s 2023 Charter School Guide. If you’re in the Buffalo area, you can apply to multiple charter schools at one time at Enroll Buffalo Charters.

 

North Carolina:

The 2022-2023 school year marked 25 years since charter schools first opened in North Carolina. Today, the state has about 200 public charter schools and more than 8% of public school students attend a charter school. Six charter schools are approved to open in 2024.

Also, the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction is currently in the process of implementing a grant to promote diversity in charter schools.

To learn more, check out the North Carolina Association for Public Charter Schools.

 

North Dakota:

North Dakota is one of only four states that have not yet passed laws allowing public charter schools. While North Dakota families cannot yet choose public charters, this may be an option in the future. 

 

Ohio:

In Ohio, charter schools are commonly referred to as “Community Schools.” Community schools or charter schools have been allowed in Ohio since 1997. Today there are more than 300 such schools. Ohio charters offer a variety of themes, from online learning to STEM. One of the newest charter schools in Ohio is Cincinnati Classical Academy, which recently opened for K-7 students across 52 zip codes. 

If your child attends an Ohio charter, they may soon receive additional funding. Ohio’s most recent budget provides for brick-and-mortar community schools to receive an extra $650 per pupil in 2024 and 2025, as well as extra funding for facilities (like buildings and classrooms).

You can learn more at the Ohio Department of Education. Plus, you may wish to check out Fordham Institute’s Ohio Charter News Weekly.

 

Oklahoma:

In the late 1990s, Oklahoma passed a bill allowing charter schools to be authorized by school districts in Tulsa and Oklahoma counties. Today, charters can be authorized by any school district and are available in many parts of Oklahoma. Families can currently choose from about 60 public charter schools, including both brick-and-mortar schools and online charters. One of the state’s newest charters is Tulsa Classical Academy, which offers classical education and character formation for Tulsa students in grades K-8.

You can learn more at the Oklahoma Public Charter School Association.

 

Oregon:

Today, Oregon families can choose from more than 130 public charter schools. The state first passed charter school legislation in 1999. Oregon’s charter options are diverse, ranging from Arco Iris Spanish Immersion School in Beaverton to Baker Early College in Bend.

You can learn more at the League of Oregon Charter Schools.

 

Pennsylvania:

Pennsylvania families can choose from more than 180 public charter schools, including several cyber charter schools. Pennsylvania’s charter options range from community schools serving local rural populations to schools focused on mentoring and professional development. You can read about these options at the Pennsylvania Coalition of Public Charter Schools.

 

Rhode Island:

Rhode Island families can currently choose from about 35 public charter schools. The state first passed charter school legislation in 1995. Charter schools may be authorized by school districts, nonprofit organizations, colleges, or even the mayor of a city or town.

The application period for charter school enrollment in Rhode Island is typically late-November through mid-March. In 2022, a record number of families applied to Rhode Island charters — schools received 23,263 applications for 2,353 available seats!

Learn more about Rhode Island’s charter options at The Rhode Island League of Charter Schools.

 

South Carolina:

South Carolina passed charter school legislation in 1996. Today, South Carolina families can choose from more than 80 charter schools, including several virtual charter schools. Charter school enrollment has been on the rise in South Carolina the last five years.  At least four new charter schools opened in fall 2023, with 13 more approved to open.

You can learn more about charter options at the Public Charter School Alliance of South Carolina.

 

South Dakota:

South Dakota is one of only four states that have not yet passed laws allowing public charter schools. While South Dakota families cannot yet choose public charters, this may be an option in the future. You can sign up for updates at South Dakota Charter Schools.

 

Tennessee:

Tennessee has more than 110 public charter schools, many of them in Memphis. Tennessee’s first charter school, Memphis Academy of Science and Engineering, was founded in 2003. Today, Tennessee’s charter schools serve more than 38,000 children. 

You can learn more about your state’s charter options at the TN Charter School Center.

 

Texas:

Texas has had charter schools as an option for more than 20 years. Parents can choose from more than 700 charter schools in Texas.

You can read more about these charter offerings at the Texas Education Agency and the Texas Public Charter Schools Association.

 

Utah:

Utah has more than 130 charter schools that parents can choose from; check out a map of these charter schools. Utah’s charter schools are diverse, focusing on everything from leadership to international studies to sports.

You can learn more from The Utah Association of Public Charter Schools. You can also read frequently asked questions about charter schools at the Utah State Board of Education, one of the authorizers for charter schools. 

 

Vermont:

Vermont is one of only four states that have not yet passed laws allowing public charter schools. While Vermont families cannot yet choose public charters, this may be an option in the future! 

 

Virginia:

Virginia passed charter school legislation in 1998. Today, Virginia has seven public charter schools. These include Patrick Henry School of Science and the Arts in Richmond, which focuses on the liberal arts, and Green Run Collegiate in Virginia Beach, which focuses on global citizenship and community leading.

In 2023, the Governor’s Office announced plans to develop more than a dozen public “lab schools.” While not charter schools, these lab schools will share some common features. They will be public schools with extra freedom to develop alternative and innovative learning programs.

 

Washington:

There are currently more than15 operating charter schools in Washington, serving nearly 5,000 students. A charter may be an option for you if you live in Bremerton, Midway, Tukwila, Seattle, Vancouver, Renton, Bellingham, Walla Walla, Pullman, Wenatchee, or Spokane. One of the state’s newest charter schools is Rooted School in Vancouver, which aims to graduate students with “a diploma in one hand, a job offer in the other.”

You can learn more at the Washington State Charter Schools Association.

 

West Virginia:

West Virginia passed legislation authorizing charter schools in 2019. In 2021, the state passed a law creating a new authorizer for charter schools. It also expanded the number of charter schools that could be established in a three-year period from three to 10 schools and allowed for up to two statewide virtual charter schools.

Excitingly, West Virginia now has five charter schools open to students. These include three brick-and-mortar schools – Eastern Panhandle Preparatory Academy in Jefferson County, West Virginia Academy in the greater Morgantown area, and the Workforce Initiative for Nurses (WIN Academy) in the Kanawha Valley. Two virtual charter schools are also available– Virtual Prep Academy and West Virginia Virtual Academy. More charter options may be on the way – two new schools are authorized to open in fall 2024!

 

Wisconsin:

As of the 2022-2023 school year, Wisconsin families can choose from more than 230 public charter schools. One of the state’s newest schools is Wisconsin Innovation Academy in Wauwatosa, which focuses on International Baccalaureate and STEM programming.

In 2023, Wisconsin passed a bill to increases the amount of funding that charter schools receive per pupil. You can read more about charters at the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction’s charter school page.

 

Wyoming:

Wyoming passed charter school legislation in 1995. The state currently has at least five charter schools; these are located in Riverton, Laramie, Chugwater, and Cheyenne. Another charter school, Cheyenne Classical Academy, is approved to open in fall 2024. In Wyoming, charter schools must be authorized by a local district or the new Wyoming Charter School Authorizing Board.

Washington, D.C.

Charter school legislation for Washington, D.C. was signed into law in 1996. Today, there are more than 100 charter schools in the district. You can apply to participating public charter schools through the My School DC Public School Lottery, and you can find a complete list of D.C. Public Charter Schools.

Learn more at the D.C. Charter School Alliance.

Shareable Facts about Charter Schools


 

The information in this ultimate guide to charter schools is designed to help families who are considering charter schooling in their decision-making process. Our mission is to provide families with the information they need about all the school options available – traditional public, public charter, public magnet, private, online, and at home – so they can choose the right fit for their child. Read more guides about choosing other types of schools.

 

 

A causa de COVID-19, casi todas las familias se encontraron educando desde su hogar. Para algunas familias, aprendizaje desde el hogar no era un plan a largo plazo. Pero, otras han descubierto que educación en el hogar es una buena combinación para sus necesidades. 

Entonces, ¿qué es la educación en el hogar? Es el proceso en el que padres de familia imparten educación escolar a sus hijos en el hogar. Muchas familias elijen colaborar a través de tutoriales, cooperativas, y ligas extracurriculares para mejorar la experiencia de la educación en el hogar.

Mientras que COVID-19 ha despertado un interés mayor en la educación en el hogar, educar en el hogar ha estado ocurriendo durante siglos. Usted habrá escuchado muchos términos como escuela en línea, aprendizaje remoto, y educación en el hogar de manera intercambiable en este momento, ¡pero realmente son opciones escolares bastante diferentes! Lea nuestra explicación de las diferencias aquí.

Muy importante recordar, que todos tipo de familias educan en el hogar por todo tipo de razones. Algunos se pueden sentir inseguros en un ambiente tradicional de aprendizaje, algunos simplemente pueden desear aprender juntos como familia, y otros pueden estar buscando una manera única, un currículo personalizado. 

Los estudiantes de la educación en el hogar se han convertido en actores, artistas, inventores, líderes cívicos, autores, empresarios, y más

La educación en el hogar es legal en todos los 50 estados, pero las reglas y regulaciones que rodean la educación en el hogar difieren por estados. Si se está preguntando si la educación en el hogar sería una buena opción para usted, es posible que tenga preguntas sobre cómo cambiar a la educación en el hogar y qué recursos hay disponibles. Creamos esta guía para responder esas preguntas. 

¿Es esta la primera vez que navega por el sistema educativo en los Estados Unidos? Si es así, es esencial saber que la educación K-12 es obligatoria, gratuita y abierta a todos los niños de este país, independientemente de los ingresos familiares, el estado migratorio o la religión. Cada familia tiene una escuela pública local asignada a la que es gratis asistir, pero en la mayoría de los lugares usted puede elegir entre otras escuelas públicas gratuitas como escuelas chárter, escuelas magnet o escuelas en línea; o seleccionar una escuela privada o educación en el hogar. Encuentre más información sobre la estructura del sistema educativo aquí y algunas preguntas frecuentes para padres migrantes de primera generación que buscan opciones de elección de escuela aquí.

 

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Educación en el hogar: Como comenzar?

Si recién está comenzando, estos son los pasos que debe tomar para cambiar a la educación en el hogar: 

1. Revise las normas de su estado

Primero, revise las reglas de su estado en cuanto a la educación en el hogar. Si bien las familias pueden educar en el hogar en los 50 estados, cada estado tiene opciones legales diferentes bajo las cuales usted puede educar en el hogar. En Texas, por ejemplo, hay solo una opción legal: todas las familias de educación en el hogar se consideran escuelas privadas. Mientras que en Virginia, hay cuatro opciones legales diferentes que los padres pueden elegir: educación en el hogar puede realizarse bajo la opción de instrucción en el hogar, con una exención religiosa, con un tutor certificado, o mediante la opción de escuela privada.

Usted puede mirar en la página web del Departamento de Educación de su estado, o encontrar el mapa de su estado en la Asociación de Defensa Legal de la Educación en el hogar  para leer sobre sus opciones legales para la educación en el hogar. 

Si desea saber qué servicios de educación especial estarán disponibles para su hijo como estudiante de educación en el hogar, consulte los recursos estado por estado que hemos reunido en “Cómo continuar con su IEP, incluso si comienza la educación en el hogar“.

 

 2. Retire e informe

Segundo, si ya está inscrito en una escuela pública o privada, la mayoría de los estados requieren que envíe una carta de retiro a su distrito escolar. Usted puede encontrar ejemplos de cartas de retiro en inglés aquí, también puede encontrar una traducción de estas páginas respectivamente aquí y aquí. Es una buena idea mantener una copia de la carta de retiro que envió, en caso de que surja una pregunta. También es posible que usted quiera pedir las transcripciones de la escuela de su hijo cuando se retire. 

Muchos estados también requieren que usted presente un aviso de intención de educación en el hogar al estado y/o al distrito escolar. Puede encontrar información detallada sobre quién debe recibir su aviso en HSLDA

 3. Elija cómo aprenderá

Luego, desarrolle sus planes sobre cómo será el aprendizaje en su hogar. ¿A qué hora comenzará en la mañana? ¿Con qué frecuencia aprenderá en las salidas durante la semana? Hay muchos currículos de los que usted puede elegir si prefiere no comenzar desde cero. Asegúrese de estar familiarizado con las materias que se requieren aprender en su estado. Un lugar con mucha info en español es Vivir es Aprender. Además, asegúrese de estar familiarizado con las materias que se requieren para aprender en su estado.

Una de las alegrías de la educación en el hogar es conocer más sobre la singularidad de su hijo y cómo aprenden. Hay libertad en esto. Es posible que su hijo responda mejor a un enfoque o plan de estudios o método de enseñanza que es diferente al de su entorno escolar habitual y eso está bien. – Kemi Ingram, padre de la educación en el hogar.

 4. Mantenega seguimiento

Cuando comience la educación en el hogar, haga todo lo posible para mantener un seguimiento. Use un planificador o plan de estudios para registrar en lo que trabaja cada semana con su hijo. ¡No se olvide de seguir las pautas de su estado para pruebas y evaluaciones!

Recursos para la educación en el hogar por estado

Además, recuerde que la educación en el hogar no debe ser en aislamiento. Hay grupos de colaboración y ayuda en Facebook y recursos en línea, nunca tendrá que sentirse solo en su viaje de educación en el hogar. Encuentre su estado en la lista a continuación para encontrar recursos de educación en el hogar cerca de usted.

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Alabama:

En Alabama, el estado requiere un aviso de su intención de educar en el hogar 5 días antes de su fecha de inicio. Se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela actual para que su estudiante no sea marcado como ausente.

En el caso de que desee volver a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, la escuela en la que se está inscribiendo puede requerir registros y pruebas de nivel.

También podría interesarle revisar Educación en el Hogar AlabamaAsociación de Defensa Legal de Educación en el Hogar – Alabama, la sección de Escuelas No Públicas  del Departamento de Educación de Alabama, y esta lista de grupos de apoyo para la educación en el hogar de Alabama.

 

Alaska:

En Alaska, el estado solo requiere la notificación de su intención para educar en casa si usted irá a proveer la educación mediante una escuela privada religiosa. Deberá notificar el primer día de clases. Se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela actual para que su estudiante no sea marcado como ausente.

En el caso de que desee volver a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, se utilizará un archivo de trabajos o evaluaciones para la colocación de nivel.

Alaska tiene un programa de asistencia financiera llamado Asignación para la Educación en el Hogar de Alaska para ayudar a que la educación en casa sea más accesible económicamente para las familias. Esencialmente, el estado reserva fondos en forma de una asignación anual para los estudiantes (incluidos los educadores en el hogar) inscritos en uno de los 35 programas por correspondencia financiados por el estado. Según el Departamento de Educación de Alaska, “Esta asignación puede pagar artículos como libros, clases, útiles escolares, apoyo tecnológico, tutoría, lecciones de música o actividades de un estudiante y otros artículos relacionados con la educación del estudiante”.

También le podría interesar revisar Asociación de Defensa Legal de Educación en el Hogar – Alaska.

 

Arizona:

En Arizona, el estado requiere un aviso de su intención de educar en el hogar 30 días antes. Se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela actual para que sus estudiantes no estén marcados como ausentes.

En el caso de que desee volver a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, debe presentar una carta de terminación ante el estado.

Arizona tiene un programa de asistencia financiera llamado ESA por sus siglas en inglés  para ayudar a que la educación en casa sea más accesible económicamente para las familias.

También le podría interesar revisar Asociación de Defensa Legal de Educación en el Hogar – Arizona y la Federacion de Niños de Arizona.

 

Arkansas:

En Arkansas, el estado requiere un aviso de su intención de educar en el hogar a más tardar el 15 de agosto de cada año escolar.  Si está tomando la decisión de educar en el hogar a mitad de año, debe notificarlo 5 días antes de retirarse. En el caso de que se mude, debe presentar su notificación de educar en el hogar dentro de los 30 días posteriores al establecimiento de la residencia en su nueva ubicación. Se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela actual para que su estudiante no sea marcado como ausente.

En el caso de que desee volver a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, la escuela requerirá un expediente académico con los cursos tomados y las calificaciones, así como un portafolio, para su colocación en las clases. La escuela puede considerar necesario administrar evaluaciones para la colocación.

Es posible que también desee ver La Alianza Educativa, la página de educación en casa del departamento de Educación de Arkansas, y Educación en el Hogar del Área de Cabot (CAHE).

 

California:

En California, el estado requiere un aviso de su intención de educar en el hogar si usted está educando como escuela privada basada desde el hogar entre el 1ero y el 15 de octubre. Se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela actual para que su estudiante no sea marcado como ausente.

En el caso de que desee volver a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, la escuela en la que se está inscribiendo puede requerir registros y pruebas de nivel. Podría ser que algunas escuelas públicas no acepten créditos recibidos mientras se educó en casa.  

California puede tener asistencia económica disponible si educa en el hogar a través de un programa de educación en el hogar charter.

Para más, puede revisar visitar Estilo Familiar, la  Red de Educación en el Hogar de California, el Departamento de Educación de California: Educando en el Hogar, Asociación de Defensa Legal de Educación en el Hogar – California.

 

Colorado:

En Colorado, el estado requiere un aviso de su intención de educar en el hogar, si está estudiando en casa bajo la ley de escuela en casa de Colorado, 14 días antes de la educación en el hogar anualmente. Se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela actual para que su estudiante no sea marcado como ausente.

En el caso de que desee volver a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, se le administrarán evaluaciones y se utilizarán para ubicar a su estudiante en el grado apropiado.

También puede revisar,  Opción Espcolar Para Niños, la  Asociación de Defensa Legal de Educación en el Hogar – Colorado, la página del Departamento de Educación de Colorado para  Educación. 

 

Connecticut:

En Connecticut, el estado requiere notificación de su intención de educar en el hogar dentro de los primeros 10 días de haber comenzado la educación en el hogar y se requiere notificación anualmente. Se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela actual para que su estudiante no sea marcado como ausente.

En el caso de que decida volver a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, los requisitos dependerán de su escuela. Las escuelas pueden requerir una muestra de trabajos o evaluaciones.

Para saber más, visite el este documento redactado por el Departamento de Educación del Estado de Connecticut,  Red de Educación en el Hogar de CT, Asociación de Defensa Legal de Educación en el Hogar – Connecticut.

 

Delaware:

En Delaware, el estado requiere un aviso de su intención de educar en casa antes de establecerse como una escuela en el hogar y anualmente antes del 5 de octubre. Se requiere que notifique a su escuela pública su intención de retirarse.

En el caso de que decida volver a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, debe saber que las clases en las que sus alumnos han estado trabajando pueden no ser aceptadas por la escuela. Depende de la escuela decidir en qué grado colocar a su hijo.

También revisar la página del Departamento de Educación de DelawareAsociación de Defensa Legal de Educación en el Hogar – Delaware, y el Tri-State Homeschool, Inc de DE, MD, PA and NJ area).

 

Florida:

En la Florida, el estado requiere un aviso de su intención de educar en el hogar, si está educando en el hogar bajo la ley de la escuela en el hogar de Florida, dentro de los 30 días posteriores al inicio. Se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela pública para que su estudiante no sea marcado como ausente.

En el caso de que decida volver a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, debe presentar un aviso de finalización de la educación en el hogar ante el estado.

Florida tiene algunas opciones de asistencia económica disponible para padres que están educando en casa a sus hijos. La Beca Step Up ofrece cinco becas, de las cuales cuatro están disponibles para cualquier estudiante en Florida. Si su estudiante tiene necesidades especiales, Step Up for Students ofrece la Beca Gardiner para ayudarlo con la educación de su estudiante. El estado de Florida también ofrece la Beca McKay que también se le ofrece a los estudiantes con necesidades especiales para ayudarlos a asistir a la escuela que mejor se acomoda a sus necesidades.

También puede encontrar más información de los requisitos en este estado en Homeschooling Florida Puede revisar la página de Escuela en el Hogar del Departamento de Educación de Florida, encontrar grupos de apoyo (lista en inglés), en Homeschool on the Rock, y por su puesto la Asociación de Defensa Legal de Educación en el Hogar – Florida.

 

Georgia:

En Georgia, el estado requiere un aviso de su intención de educar en casa antes del 1 de septiembre del año escolar o dentro de los 30 días posteriores al inicio de la educación en el hogar. Se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela actual para que su estudiante no sea marcado como ausente.

En el caso de que decida volver a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, deberá crear un retiro de la escuela en el hogar y hacer que su escuela de inscripción revalide su trabajo en la escuela en el hogar.

En 2021, Georgia promulgó una ley en la que las escuelas publicas de vecindario deben permitir a los estudiantes participar en equipos deportivos y actividades extracurriculares. A cambio, los estudiantes de educación en el hogar que participen deben tomar al menos una clase en la escuela.

También podría revisar Asociación de Educación en el Hogar de Georgia, la página de Escuela en el Hogar del Departamento de Educación de Georgia, y Asociación de Defensa Legal de Educación en el Hogar – Georgia.

 

Hawaii:

En Hawaii, el estado requiere un aviso de su intención de educar en el hogar antes de comenzar a educar en el hogar. Se requiere que se retire de su escuela actual a través del aviso de intención de educación en el hogar que se le da a su director.

En el caso de que decida volver a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, debe enviar una notificación al director de la escuela pública de su zona.

Hawaii puede tener asistencia económica disponible para usted si decide educar en casa a través de un programa de educación en el hogar.

También puede revisar la Asociación de Educación en el Hogar de Hawaii, Asociación de Defensa Legal de Educación en el Hogar – Hawaii, la página de Educación en el Hogar del Departamento de Educación de HawaiiEducadores Cristianos en el Hogar Hawaii.

 

Idaho:

En Idaho, el estado no le exige que envíe un aviso de su intención a la educación en el hogar. Sin embargo, se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela pública para que su estudiante no sea marcado como ausente.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, los distritos evaluarán a su estudiante para ubicarlo en la clase apropiada. En Idaho, los distritos no están obligados a aceptar el trabajo de educación en el hogar que completó.

Idaho puede tener asistencia económica disponible si usted pasa por un programa chárter de educación en el hogar.

También puede revisar Educación en el Hogar Idaho, la página de Educación en el Hogar del Departamento de Educación de Idaho, Asociación de Defensa Legal de Educación en el Hogar – Idaho, y (enlace en inglés) Asociación de Educadores en el Hogar del Norte de Idaho.

 

Illinois: 

En Illinois, el estado no requiere notificación de su intención de educar en el hogar. Sin embargo, se recomienda para que su estudiante no esté marcado como ausente.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, las escuelas evaluarán la ubicación en función de los puntajes de las pruebas, muestras de trabajo y / o plan de estudios. La escuela puede requerir pruebas adicionales antes de tomar esta decisión. El Comite de Educacion de el Estado de Illinois tiene informacion mas detallada.

Illinois ofrece un crédito fiscal de hasta $500 para las familias que deciden estudiar en el hogar.

Puede aprender más en Asociación de Defensa Legal de Educación en el Hogar – Illinois, encuentre una lista de grupos en el estado, la página de Educación en el Hogar del Departamento de Educación de Illinois.

 

Indiana:

En Indiana, el estado no requiere notificación de su intención de educar en el hogar. Sin embargo se recomienda para que su estudiante no esté marcado como ausente.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, las escuelas pueden tomar decisiones de colocación según el grado que el padre considere apropiado. Otras escuelas requerirán prueba de logro y / o que los estudiantes completen evaluaciones para determinar la ubicación adecuada.

Indiana ofrece una deducción de impuestos de hasta $1,000 por niño para la educación en el hogar. Aprenda más en  Departamento de Educación de IndianaAsociación de Defensa Legal de Educación en el Hogar – Indiana.

 

Iowa:

En Iowa, se requiere un aviso de su intención de educar en el hogar antes del 1 de septiembre o dentro de los 14 días posteriores al inicio, a menos que esté educando en el hogar mediante instrucción privada (IPI o PI). Se recomienda que retire formalmente a su estudiante de la escuela pública para que no esté marcado como ausente.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, su distrito local puede elegir si aceptarán el trabajo completado o no.

Iowa ofrece un programa de asistencia económica llamado HSAP (Programa de Asistencia para Educación en el Hogar). Su distrito escolar público local puede ofrecer a estudiantes residentes o matriculados en el hogar; sin embargo, su distrito no está obligado a proporcionarle estos fondos. A partir de 2021, las familias que educan en casa son elegibles para un crédito fiscal de matrícula de los padres de hasta $ 500 por estudiante.

Puede informarse más en el Departamento de Educación de IowaEducación en el Hogar Iowa, y la Asociación de Defensa Legal de Educación en el Hogar – Iowa. 

 

Kansas:

En Kansas, se requiere un aviso de su intención de educar en el hogar. Debe registrarse como una escuela privada antes de comenzar la educación en el hogar. Se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela pública para que su estudiante no sea marcado como ausente.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, la escuela evaluará a los estudiantes para determinar la ubicación adecuada y decidir qué créditos, si corresponde, serán aceptados.

Puede informarse más en la  Asociación de Defensa Legal de Educación en el Hogar – Kansas, la Confederación Cristiana de Educadores en el Hogar de Kansas (CHECK), y  Padres Educadores del Medio Oeste.

 

Kentucky:

En Kentucky, se requiere un aviso de su intención de educar en el hogar anualmente dentro de las dos semanas del inicio del año escolar o diez días antes de comenzar si comienza a mediados de año. Se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela pública para que su estudiante no sea marcado como ausente.

Los padres que educan en el hogar están obligados a proporcionar información básica, como los nombres y las edades de los estudiantes, pero los distritos escolares locales nunca pueden exigir información que no sea legalmente requerida.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, consulte con su escuela para ver cuáles son sus protocolos de evaluación y colocación, ya que varían según la escuela.

También querrá revisar la  Asociación de Defensa Legal de Educación en el Hogar – Kentucky, o a la Asociacion de Educadores Cristianos desde Casa. 

 

Louisiana:

En Louisiana, se requiere un aviso de su intención de educar en el hogar a partir de los 15 días de haber comenzado y anualmente antes del 1 de octubre. Si inicialmente comienza a educar en el hogar a mediados de año, se requiere que presente el aviso 12 meses después de su aprobación inicial. Se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela pública para que su estudiante no sea marcado como ausente.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, consulte con su escuela para ver cuáles son sus protocolos. Cada escuela tiene pautas únicas para la colocación.

Louisiana ofrece asistencia financiera para educación en el hogar, como el  Programa de Oportunidad para Estudiantes Louisiana Taylor  (TOPS) y la deducción de impuestos de educación en el hogar de Louisiana.

Puede informarse más en el  Departamento de Educación de LouisianaAsociación de Defensa Legal de Educación en el Hogar – Louisiana, y Educación en el Hogar Louisiana.

 

Maine:

En Maine, se requiere un aviso de su intención de educar en el hogar a partir de los primeros10 días de haber comenzado y anualmente antes del 1 de septiembre. Se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela actual para que su estudiante no sea marcado como ausente.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, la colocación de nivel es una decisión que toma la escuela local; sin embargo, puede apelar esta decisión.

Aprenda más en la Asociación de Defensa Legal de Educación en el Hogar – Maine, la página de Educación en el Hogar del Departamento de Educación de  Maine, Educadores en el Hogar de Maine (enlace en ingles.)  

 

Maryland:

En Maryland, se requiere una notificación de su intención de educar en el hogar inmediatamente después de tomar esta decisión o su estudiante será considerado ausente. Se requiere que se retire formalmente de su escuela pública.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, las decisiones de colocación variarán según el condado. Póngase en contacto con su escuela local para conocer sus procedimientos.

Tenga en cuenta que las familias que educan en el hogar de Maryland nunca están obligadas a inscribir a sus hijos en una escuela pública. Si recibe información en contrario, es posible que desee solicitar asistencia legal.

 

Puede aprender más en la  Asociación de Defensa Legal de Educación en el Hogar – Maryland, la página de Educación en el Hogar del Departamento de Educación Estatal de Maryland, la Asociación de Educación en el Hogar de Maryland, y la Academia Cristiana de Educación en el Hogar Severn Run Classical.

 

Massachusetts:

En Massachusetts, se requiere un aviso de su intención de educar en el hogar en la mayoría de los distritos; sin embargo, varía según el distrito de su zona, así que consulte su guía. Se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela pública para que su estudiante no sea marcado como ausente.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, su escuela requiere una notificación 30 días antes de su intención de cambiar. Las escuelas secundarias públicas no aceptarán créditos de educación en el hogar.

Encuentre recursos para padres en Massachusetts, en blogs de padres de familia como Cuando los Peques Duermen, la  Asociación de Defensa Legal para la Educación en el Hogar – Massachusetts, y la Organización de Educación en el Hogar de Padres Educadores de Massachusetts (MassHOPE).

 

Michigan:

Los padres que utilizan el estatuto de educación en el hogar de Michigan para enseñar a sus hijos actualmente no están obligados a proporcionar un aviso de su intención de educar en el hogar. Sin embargo, verifique las leyes y regulaciones actualizadas antes de continuar. El estado requiere que los padres que educan en el hogar enseñen ciertas materias, pero no requiere que los niños que educan en el hogar tomen exámenes estandarizados.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, comuníquese con su escuela local para averiguar cuáles son sus pautas de colocación, ya que cada escuela tiene sus propias pautas particulares.

Aprenda más en esta hoja informativa del Departmento  de educación de Michigan, HSB, Inc,. Padre Metropolitano: Cómo educar en el hogar en Michigan, y la Asociación de Defensa Legal para la Educación en el Hogar – Michigan. 

 

Minnesota:

En Minnesota, se requiere un aviso de su intención de educar en el hogar antes del 1 de octubre o dentro de los 15 días posteriores al retiro de la escuela pública. Se requiere que se retire formalmente de su escuela pública.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, la escuela ubicará a su estudiante según la evaluación de sus registros.

Minnesota ofrece asistencia económica a través de un programa de deducción de impuestos.

También le podría interesar revisar este artículo con más directrices en la educación desde el hogar en Minnesota,  o Alianza de Educadores en el Hogar de MinnesotaAsociación de Defensa Legal para la Educación en el Hogar – Minnesota, la página de Educación en el Hogar del Departamento de Educación de Minnesota, y la Asociación Cristiana de Educadores en el Hogar de Minnesota. 

 

Mississippi:

En Mississippi, se requiere un aviso de su intención de educar en el hogar antes del 15 de septiembre o inmediatamente después de su decisión de educar en el hogar si comienza a mediados de año. Se recomienda que retire formalmente a su estudiante para que no se marque ausente.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, comuníquese con su escuela local para averiguar cuáles son sus pautas de colocación, ya que cada una tiene su propio proceso.

Puede aprender más en la Asociación de Defensa Legal para la Educación en el Hogar – Mississippi, el Grupo de Apoyo de Educacion en el Hogar de Mississippi, y la Asociacion de Educadores en Casa.

 

Missouri:

En Missouri, el estado no requiere notificación de su intención de educar en el hogar; sin embargo, se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela pública para que su estudiante no esté marcado como ausente.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, comuníquese con su escuela local para averiguar cuáles son sus pautas de colocación, ya que cada una tiene su propio proceso.

Puede revisar la Asociación de Defensa Legal para la Educación en el Hogar – MissouriFamilias a Favor de la Educación en el Hogar de Missouri , y la  Asociación Cristiana de Hogares Educadores de Missouri, Inc. (MATCH).

 

Montana:

En Montana, el estado requiere un aviso de su intención de educar en el hogar anualmente a principios de año. Se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela pública para que su estudiante no sea marcado como ausente.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, comuníquese con su escuela local para averiguar cuáles son sus pautas de colocación, ya que cada una tiene su propio proceso.

También podría interesarle la Asociación de Defensa Legal para la Educación en Casa – Montana, y la Unión de la Educación en el Hogar de Montana.

 

Nebraska:

En Nebraska, el estado requiere un aviso de su intención de educar en casa antes del 15 de julio o de inmediato al elegir la educación en el hogar. Se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela pública para que su estudiante no sea marcado como ausente.

En caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, debe notificar por escrito al Departamento de Educación de Nebraska.

Puede aprender más en la Asociación de Defensa Legal para la Educación en el Hogar – Nebraska,  y la Asociación Cristiana de Educadores en el Hogar de Nebraska. 

 

Nevada:

En Nevada, el estado requiere un aviso de intención de educar en el hogar antes de comenzar y a más tardar 10 días después del retiro. Se requiere que se retire formalmente de su escuela pública.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, la ubicación de su estudiante está sujeta a pruebas de ubicación y puede requerir una revisión del trabajo del estudiante.

También le podría interesar el Departamento de Educación de Nevada – Educación en el Hogar, Asociación de Defensa Legal para la Educación en Casa – Nevada Red de Educación en el Hogar de Nevada, y recursos educativos en la Coalición de Opciones de Escuela de Nevada.

 

New Hampshire:

En New Hampshire, se requiere que notifique su intención de educar en el hogar dentro de los 5 días posteriores al inicio y / o si se muda a un nuevo distrito escolar. Se recomienda que se retire formalmente para que su estudiante no sea marcado como ausente.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, la ubicación de su estudiante se determinará en función de la documentación que proporcione.

Puede aprender más en la Asociación de Defensa Legal para la Educación en Casa – New Hampshire, y la Unión de Educación en Casa de New Hampshire.

 

New Jersey:

En New Jersey, no es obligatorio que notifique su intención de educar en el hogar; sin embargo, se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela pública para que su estudiante no sea marcado como ausente.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, la ubicación de su estudiante se basará en una revisión de una evaluación estandarizada.

También puede revisar el  Departamento de Educación de New Jersey y la Asociación de Defensa Legal para la Educación en el Hogar – New Jersey.

 

New Mexico:

En New México, se requiere que notifique su intención de educar en el hogar a partir de los 30 días de haber comenzado y anualmente antes del 1 de agosto. Se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela pública para que su estudiante no sea marcado como ausente.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, debe notificar al Secretario de Educación. La ubicación de su estudiante estará determinada por la edad o su puntaje en las pruebas de rendimiento estatales – es posible que no se acepten créditos.

Puede aprender más en el Departamento de Educación Pública de New Mexico, Asociación de Defensa Legal para la Educación en el Hogar – New Mexico. Encuentre más información en acceso de cursos publicos para complementar su educación desde el hogar.

 

New York:

En New York, se requiere un aviso de su intención de educar en el hogar dentro de los 14 días posteriores al inicio y anualmente antes del 1 de julio. Se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela pública para que su estudiante no sea marcado como ausente.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, la escuela determinará la ubicación de su estudiante en función de los registros, las evaluaciones potenciales y la decisión del director. Encuentre mas detalles en este articulo.

También puede revisar las instrucciones del Departamento de Educación de New York y la Asociación de Defensa Legal para la Educación en el Hogar – New York y Amando la Educación en el Hogar (LEAH).

 

North Carolina:

En Carolina del Norte, se requiere un aviso de su intención de educar en el hogar antes de comenzar. Se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela pública para que su estudiante no sea marcado como ausente.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, debe notificar al DNPE y comunicarse con su director local para el proceso de inscripción.

Carolina del Norte ofrece asistencia económica a través de Cuentas de Ahorro para Educación Personal. También hay Becas de Educación Especial para niños con discapacidades.

Para más información, revise la página de NC extensión de cooperación,  Educación en el Hogar del Departamento de Educación de North Carolina, Los Carolinianos del Norte a Favor de la Educación en el Hogar Educadores en el Hogar Cristianos de Alamance County, Educadores en el Hogar de High Point .

 

North Dakota:

En North Dakota, se requiere un aviso de su intención de educar en el hogar al menos 14 días antes de comenzar o dentro de los 14 días posteriores a la mudanza y anualmente. Se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela pública para que su estudiante no sea marcado como ausente.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, debe presentar documentación de mantenimiento de registros al superintendente de su escuela.

También puede revisar el Departamento de Instrucción Pública de North Dakota – Educación en el Hogar, Asociación de Defensa Legal para la Educación en el Hogar – North Dakota, y la Asociación para la Educación en el Hogar de North Dakota.

 

Ohio:

En Ohio, se requiere que notifique su intención de educar en el hogar a más tardar la primera semana de clases o dentro de una semana después del retiro. También debe notificar anualmente y si se muda. Se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela pública para que su estudiante no sea marcado como ausente.

En caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, comuníquese con su escuela local para determinar su proceso.

Ohio ofrece asistencia financiera si un estudiante tiene un IEP. Estos estudiantes pueden calificar para la  Beca Peterson. Además, a partir de 2021, las familias que educan en casa en Ohio son elegibles para un crédito fiscal de $ 250 para gastos de aprendizaje.

También puede revisar la página de Educación en el Hogar del Departamento de Educación de Ohio, Padres Educadores de Ohio, Asociación de Defensa Legal de la Educación en el Hogar – Ohio, y  Educadores en el Hogar Cristianos de Ohio, y la Opciones Escolares de Ohio.

 

Oklahoma:

En Oklahoma, se recomienda que envíe un aviso de su intención de educar en el hogar a su director local, sin embargo, no es obligatorio. Su aviso de intención también serviría como su retiro de la escuela pública.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, su estudiante deberá completar un examen estandarizado de ubicación.

Oklahoma ofrece asistencia económica limitada para familias de educación en el hogar si está inscrito a través de un estatuto.

También puede revisar la página de Educación en el Hogar del departamento de Educación de Oklahoma, y Asociación de Defensa Legal de la Educación en Casa – Oklahoma.

 

Oregon:

En Oregon, se requiere un aviso de su intención de educar en el hogar dentro de los primeros 10 días de haber comenzado. Se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela pública para que su estudiante no sea marcado como ausente.

En caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, comuníquese con su escuela local para determinar el proceso.

Oregon ofrece asistencia económica limitada para familias de educación en el hogar si está inscrito a través de un estatuto.

También puede revisar la página de Educación en el Hogar del Departamento de Educación de Oregon, la Red de Educación en el Hogar de Oregon, Asociación de Defensa Legal para la Educación en el Hogar – Oregon, y la  Red de la Asociación Cristiana de la Educación en Casa de Oregon.

 

Pennsylvania:

En Pensilvania, se requiere que notifique su intención de educar en el hogar mediante la presentación de una declaración jurada notariada al momento de elegir la escuela en el hogar y anualmente antes del 1 de agosto. Se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela pública para que su estudiante no sea marcado como ausente.

En caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, comuníquese con su escuela local para determinar el proceso.

También puede revisar la Asociación de Defensa Legal para la Educación en el hogar – Pennsylvania, y el sitio del Departamento de Educación de Pennsylvania y la Asociacion de Educadores Cristianos de Pensilvania.

 

Rhode Island:

En Rhode Island, se requiere que notifique su intención de educar en el hogar antes de comenzar. Es obligatorio retirarse formalmente de la escuela pública en algunos distritos y se recomienda en todos.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, notifique al comité de su distrito. La asignación de calificaciones de su estudiante depende de la discreción de cada escuela individual.

Para más, revise la página de Educación en el Hogar del Departamento de Educación de Rhode Island, Asociación de Defensa Legal para la Educación en el Hogar – Rhode Island, la  Comunidad de Educación en el Hogar de Rhode Island , y el Gremio de Maestros en el Hogar de Rhode Island.

 

South Carolina:

En South Carolina, si está estudiando en casa bajo una ley de educación en el hogar, se debe presentar una solicitud a la junta de fideicomisarios antes de comenzar. Se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela pública para que su estudiante no sea marcado como ausente.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, la evaluación de la colocación de grado variará según el distrito escolar, así que comuníquese con su escuela local para conocer su proceso.

Puede aprender más en la página de Educación en el Hogar del Departamento de Educación de South Carolina, Asociación de Defensa Legal para la Educación en el Hogar – South Carolina, la  Asociación de Educadores en el Hogar de South Carolina, la Asociación de Escuelas de Casa Independientes y GLOW.

 

South Dakota:

En Dakota del Sur, se requiere que notifique su intención de educar en el hogar dentro de los 30 días posteriores al inicio de la educación en el hogar. Se requiere que se retire formalmente de su escuela pública.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, South Dakota utiliza un programa de crédito por examen para la colocación.

De acuerdo con un proyecto de ley aprobado en 2021 para empoderar la elección de los padres, cualquier estudiante de educación en casa en Dakota del Sur es elegible para participar en atletismo, bellas artes u otras actividades patrocinadas por la Asociación de Actividades de Escuelas Secundarias de Dakota del Sur.

Para más, revise la Asociación de Defensa Legal para la Educación en el Hogar – South Dakota y  Educadores Cristianos en el Hogar de South Dakota. 

 

Tennessee:

En Tennessee, si usted es una escuela independiente en el hogar, se requiere que notifique la intención de educar en el hogar antes del año escolar o al elegir la escuela en el hogar y anualmente a partir de entonces. Es obligatorio retirarse formalmente de la escuela pública en algunos distritos y se recomienda para todos los distritos.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, el director de su escuela evaluará para determinar la colocación de nivel de grado.

Tennessee ofrece asistencia económica para estudiantes con necesidades especiales a través del  Programa de Cuenta de Educación Individualizada para Necesidades Especiales.

Puede aprender más en la página de Educación en el Hogar del Departamento de Educación de Tennessee, y Asociación de Defensa Legal para la Educación en el Hogar – Tennessee y la Asociación de Educación desde el Hohar de Tennessee.

 

Texas:

En Texas, no es obligatorio que notifique su intención de educar en el hogar; sin embargo, se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela pública para que su estudiante no esté marcado como ausente.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, comuníquese con su escuela local para averiguar cuál es su proceso. Pueden requerir pruebas.

También podría interesarle la página de Educación en el Hogar de la Agencia de Educación de Texas, la Unión de Educación en el Hogar de Texas, la Asociación de Defensa Legal para la Educación en el Hogar – Texas, y estos articulos con valiosa información.

 

Utah:

En Utah, se requiere que proporcione una declaración jurada certificada de Utah de educación en el hogar antes de comenzar la educación en el hogar. También se recomienda que retire formalmente a su estudiante de su escuela pública para que no se marque ausente.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, comuníquese con su escuela local para averiguar cuál es su proceso. Pueden requerir pruebas.

Puede aprender más en la página de la Asociación de Defensa Legal para la Educación en el Hogar – Utah, la página de Educación en el Hogar de la Junta de Educación del Estado de Utah y la Asociación Cristiana para la Educación en el Hogar de Utah.

 

Vermont:

En Vermont, se requiere que notifique su intención de educar en el hogar presentando el Formulario de Inscripción en el Estudio en el Hogar entre el 1 de marzo y el 1 de agosto anualmente. Se recomienda que retire formalmente a su estudiante de su escuela pública para que no sea marcado ausente.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, notifique a la Secretaría de Educación 7 días antes y realice una Evaluación de fin de año para finalizar el registro de su estudiante.

Puede revisar la Asociación de Defensa Legal para la Educación en el Hogar – Vermont y la Red de Educación en el Hogar de Vermont.

 

Virginia:

En Virginia, se requiere que notifique su intención de educar en casa antes del 15 de agosto o inmediatamente después de elegir la educación en el hogar. Se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela pública para que su estudiante no sea marcado como ausente.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, su escuela revisará sus registros de educación en el hogar para su colocación. Es posible que se requieran pruebas para determinar la ubicación de su estudiante.

También le podría interesar revisar la página de la Asociación de Defensa Legal para la Educación en el Hogar – Virginia y la Asociación de Educadores del Hogar de Virginia.

 

Washington:

En Washington, se requiere un aviso de su intención de educar en el hogar antes del 15 de septiembre o dentro de las primeras dos semanas de cualquier cuarto, trimestre o semestre. Se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela pública para que su estudiante no sea marcado como ausente.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, sus registros de educación en el hogar serán revisados ​​para su ubicación. Es posible que se requieran pruebas para determinar la ubicación de su estudiante.

Washington ofrece asistencia de financiación limitada si está estudiando en el hogar a través de un programa de asociación de padres.

Puede aprender más en la  Organización de Educación en el Hogar de Washington, y la Asociación de Defensa Legal para la Educación en el Hogar – Washington, la Asociación de Educadores Familias Cristianas en Casa de Washington.

 

West Virginia:

En West Virginia, se requiere un aviso de su intención de educar en el hogar, ya sea solicitando la aprobación del consejo escolar o presentando un aviso de intención antes de comenzar la educación en el hogar. Se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela pública para que su estudiante no sea marcado como ausente.

Si bien información errónea sobre la educación en el hogar se ha extendido recientemente en un par de condados de West Virginia, la verdad es que los estudiantes de educación en el hogar en West Virginia reciben créditos, diplomas y expedientes académicos reconocidos por la ley estatal.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, el proceso varía según el distrito escolar. Póngase en contacto con su escuela local para conocer su proceso, es posible que se requieran pruebas.

También le podría interesar revisar la  Asociación de Educadores en Casa de WV, Asociación de Defensa Legal para la Educación en el Hogar – West Virginia, y la Asociación de Educadores Cristianos de Casa de Virginia Occidental.

 

Wisconsin:

En Wisconsin, se requiere que notifique anualmente su intención de educar en el hogar antes del 15 de octubre. Se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela pública para que su estudiante no sea marcado como ausente.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, debe notificar a la escuela a través del formulario PI-1206 o comunicándose con el Equipo de Servicios de Administración Escolar en WPI.

La ubicación es determinada por cada distrito individualmente.

Puede aprender más en la Asociación de Padres de WisconsinAsociación de Defensa Legal para la Educación en el Hogar – Wisconsin, y la asociación de Hispanos por Opciones de Escuela.

 

Wyoming:

En Wyoming, se requiere que notifique su intención de educar en el hogar anualmente con el plan de estudios antes del comienzo del año escolar o antes de comenzar a educar en el hogar. Se recomienda que se retire formalmente de su escuela pública para que su estudiante no sea marcado como ausente.

En el caso de que decida regresar a la escuela pública a mediados del año escolar, comuníquese con su distrito escolar local para averiguar cuáles son sus procedimientos de inscripción.

También puede revisar la Asociación de Defensa Legal para la Educación en el Hogar – Wyoming y Educadores en el Hogar de Wyoming.

 

Comparta estos datos sobe la educación en el hogar

Homeschooling Infographic Red&Yellow

 

 

Fuentes: The School Choice Roadmap, de Andrew Campanella; “Research Facts on Homeschooling,” de National Home Education Research Institute; “Reasons Parents Homeschool,” by the Coalition for Responsible Home Education.

 

educacion desde el hogar

__________

 

La información en esta guía está diseñada para ayudar a las familias que están considerando la educación en el hogar en su proceso de toma de decisiones. Nuestra misión es proporcionar a las familias la información que necesitan sobre todas las opciones escolares disponibles: público tradicional, charter público, magnet público, privado, en línea y en el hogar, para que puedan elegir la opción adecuada para su hijo. Para obtener más guías sobre cómo elegir otro tipo de escuelas, haga clic aquí.

The Ultimate Guide to Homeschooling

Homeschooling is on the rise.

During COVID-19, nearly all families found themselves educating from home. For some families, learning from home was a short-term necessity. But, others have discovered that homeschooling is a great match for their needs. 

So, what is homeschooling?  It’s the process of parents educating children in the home. Many families choose to collaborate via tutorials, co-operatives, and extracurricular leagues to enhance the home education experience.

How to switch to homeschooling…

Get a quick rundown.

Recent surveys by the U.S. Census Bureau reveal homeschooling growth across all races and income levels. While COVID-19 sparked increased interest in homeschooling, educating at home has been happening for centuries. You may hear a lot of terms like online school, remote learning, and homeschooling thrown around interchangeably, but they’re actually quite different school choices! Read our explainer on the differences.

Importantly, all types of families homeschool for all sorts of reasons. Some may feel unsafe in a traditional learning environment, some may simply desire to learn together as a family, and others may be looking for a unique, personalized curriculum. Homeschooled students have become actors, artists, inventors, civic leaders, authors, entrepreneurs, and more

Homeschooling is legal in all 50 states, but rules and regulations surrounding homeschooling differ by state. If you’re wondering whether homeschooling would be a good fit for you, you may have questions about how to switch to homeschooling and what resources are available. We created this guide to answer those questions. 

Sign up to learn even more about School Choice in your state!

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Homeschool: Starting Out

If you’re just getting started, here are the steps you can take to switch to homeschooling: 

1. Review state guidelines

First, review your state’s guidelines for homeschooling. While families can homeschool in all 50 states, each state has different legal options under which you can homeschool. In Texas, for instance, there is just one legal option: All homeschooling families are considered private schools. Meanwhile, in Virginia, there are four different legal options parents can choose from: homeschooling can take place under the home instruction option, with a religious exemption, with a certified tutor, or through a private school option.

You can look to your state’s Department of Education website, or find your state on the Home School Legal Defense Association’s map to read about your legal options for homeschooling. 

If you want to know what special education services will be available for your child as a homeschool student, check the state-by-state resources we’ve put together at “How to Continue Your IEP, Even if You Start Homeschooling.”

In some cases, homeschool families may be eligible for grants or scholarship funding. For example, the Home School Legal Defense Association offers a limited number of curriculum grants, disaster relief grants, and homeschool group grants for families in need. And in some states, homeschool families can participate in state-run scholarship programs.

 

2. Withdraw and inform

Second, if you are already enrolled in a public or private school, it is recommended that you send a withdrawal letter to your school district. You can find a sample withdrawal letter from Midwest Parent Educators. It is a good idea to keep a copy of the withdrawal letter you send, in case any questions arise. Also, you may want to ask for transcripts from your child’s school when you withdraw. 

Many states also require that you submit a notice of your intent to homeschool to the state and/or your school district. You can find detailed information at the Home School Legal Defense Association on who should receive your notice of intent.

 

3. Choose how you’ll learn

Next, develop your plans for what learning will look like in your home. What time will you start in the morning? How often will you learn through outings during the week? There are many curriculums you can choose from if you’d rather not start from scratch. One place to get started is the Homeschool Resource Roundup, which has put together PDFs summarizing hundreds of different curriculum options by grades offered, subjects offered, worldview, and more. There are also many education podcasts where parents and educators share about their homeschooling curricula. Make sure you’re familiar with what subjects are required learning in your state

One of the joys of homeschooling is getting to know more about your child’s uniqueness and how they learn. There is freedom in this. You may find your child responding better to an approach or curriculum or teaching method that is different from their usual school setting and that’s okay.

Kemi Ingram, homeschool parent

4. Keep track

As you start to homeschool, do your best to keep track. Use a planner or syllabus to record what you work on each week with your child. Don’t forget to follow your state guidelines for testing and assessments!

Homeschool Resources by State

In addition, remember that homeschooling doesn’t happen in a vacuum. With Facebook, co-ops, online resources, and events, you never have to feel alone in your homeschooling journey. Scroll to your state in the list below to find information about homeschool organizations and laws in your state. We’ve also created a round-up of free online learning tools that homeschooling families can use.

AL AK AZ AR CA CO CT DE FL GA HI ID IL IN IA KS KY LA ME MD MA MI MN MS MO MT NE NV NH NJ NM NY NC ND OH OK OR PA RI SC SD TN TX UT VT VA WA WV WI WY DC

State allows homeschooling 

 

Alabama:

In Alabama, if you are establishing a “home-based private school,” you must notify your local superintendent within 5 days of the start of public school. You may also homeschool with a church school or using a private tutor. Whichever method you choose, it is recommended that you formally withdraw from your current school so that your student is not marked truant.  

You are not required to teach specific subjects or use specific standardized tests if you choose to homeschool in Alabama. Your homeschooled child might still be eligible to participate in sports at your local public school, provided he or she meets the district’s requirements.

In the case that you want to switch back to public school, the school you are enrolling in may require records and placement testing.

Learn more about homeschool laws and how to homeschool in Alabama. You can also check out Homeschool AlabamaHome School Legal Defense Association – Alabama, the Alabama State Department of Education’s Nonpublic Schools section, and the Alabama Homeschool Activities Facebook Group.

Alaska:

In Alaska, the state only requires notice of your intent to homeschool if you are homeschooling as a religious private school. If so, you will need to provide notice by the first day of school. Of course, it is recommended that you formally withdraw from your current school so that your student is not marked truant. If you decide to switch back to public school, a portfolio of work or assessments will be used for placement.

You are not required to teach specific subjects or use specific standardized tests if you choose to homeschool in Alaska. If you homeschool, your child might still be eligible to participate in sports or activities at local public schools – reach out to your district to learn more.

Alaska stands out among the states for its flexible funding assistance program available to many homeschoolers! Essentially, the state sets aside funds in the form of an annual allotment for students (including homeschoolers) enrolled in one of more than 30 state-funded correspondence programs. According to Alaska’s Department of Education & Early Development, “This allotment can pay for items such as a student’s books, classes, school supplies, technology support, tutoring, music or activity lessons, and other items related to the student’s education.”

This allotment helps make homeschooling more affordable for some families. Note that the allotment amount may vary by correspondence program and may not be used to purchase religious curriculum. Homeschool in Alaska offers families clear information about allotment funds, as well as tips for selecting the best correspondence program or homeschool program for your family.

You may also wish to check out the Home School Legal Defense Association – Alaska or the Alaska Private and Home Educators Association.

Arizona:

In Arizona, the state requires a one-time notice of your intent to homeschool your child within 30 days of beginning to homeschool in a county. It is also recommended that you formally withdraw from your current school so that your student is not marked truant.

If you choose to homeschool, you are required to teach reading, grammar, math, social studies, and science, but specific standardized tests are not required. Note that your student might still be eligible to participate in sports, activities, or classes at local public schools.

If you move to a new county during the school year, you must file a letter of termination, then submit a new notice of your intent in the county you moved to. In the case that you want to switch back to public school, you must file a letter of termination.

Arizona has a funding assistance program called the Empowerment Scholarship Accounts to help make homeschooling more affordable for families. You may also be interested in checking out Arizona Families for Home Education and Home School Legal Defense Association – Arizona.

Arkansas:

In Arkansas, the state requires notice of your intent to homeschool your child by August 15 of each school year. If you are making the decision to homeschool mid-year, you must provide notice 5 days prior to withdrawing. In the case that you move, you must file your notice to homeschool within 30 days of establishing residency at your new location. It is recommended that you formally withdraw from your current school so that your student is not marked truant.

You are not required to teach specific subjects or use specific standardized tests if you choose to homeschool in Arkansas. Your child might still be eligible to participate in sports, activities, or classes at the local public school, though restrictions may apply. Additionally, homeschooled students with disabilities in Arkansas may be eligible to access special education services from their local school districts.

In the case that you want to switch back to public school, the school will require a transcript with courses taken and grades, as well as a portfolio, for placement into classes. The school may also administer assessments for placement.

In 2023, Arkansas created a new scholarship program to help families afford nonpublic learning environments. By 2025, homeschoolers will be able to opt into the Arkansas Children’s Educational Freedom Account program and keep homeschooling, using the program funding for their approved homeschool curriculum.

You may also want to check out Home School Legal Defense Association – Arkansas, The Education Alliance, the Arkansas Department of Education’s homeschool page, and Cabot Area Home Education (CAHE).

California:

In California, the state requires notice of your intent to homeschool between October 1 – October 15 of each year if you are homeschooling as a home-based private school. It is recommended that you formally withdraw from your current school so that your student is not marked truant.

If you choose to homeschool, you are required to teach courses commonly taught in public schools, but specific standardized tests are not required if you are homeschooling as a home-based private school. In general, children who are homeschooled may face roadblocks if they want to participate in public school sports or activities in California. However, other sports leagues and activities may be available.

In the case that you want to switch back to public school, your school may require records and placement testing. 

California may have funding assistance available if you homeschool through a charter school program. For more information on your homeschooling options, you can check out the California Homeschool Network, the California Department of Education: Schooling at Home, Home School Legal Defense Association – California, the Christian Home Educators Association of California, the Homeschool Association of California, Family Protection Ministries, and the Sacramento Christian Organization of Parent Educators (SCOPE).

Colorado:

In Colorado, the state requires notice of your intent to homeschool, if you are homeschooling under Colorado’s homeschool statue, 14 days prior to beginning homeschooling, and annually each school year. It is also recommended that you formally withdraw from your current school so that your student is not marked truant.

If you choose homeschooling, the state requires you to teach specific subjects (such as reading, writing, math, history, civics, literature, and science) and also requires some level of assessment for your child. Your student might still be eligible to participate in sports, activities, or classes at your local public school.

In the case that you decide to switch back to public school, the school may administer placement tests to find the appropriate grade for your student.

You can also check out the Home School Legal Defense Association – Colorado, the Colorado Department of Education’s  Homeschooling page, the Christian Home Educators of Colorado (CHEC), the Colorado Heritage Education School System (CHESS), and the Western Colorado Homeschool Connections (SPICE).

Connecticut:

In Connecticut, it is recommended that families provide an optional notice of intent to homeschool within 10 days of beginning homeschooling. Notice may be requested by districts annually. It is also recommended that you formally withdraw from your current school so that your student is not marked truant.

If you choose to homeschool, you are required to teach specific subjects (like reading, U.S. history, and geography) but specific standardized tests are not required. In general, children who are homeschooled may face roadblocks if they want to participate in public school sports in Connecticut. However, other sports leagues and activities are available.

In the case that you decide to switch back to public school, the school may require a portfolio of work or assessments.

To learn more, check out the CT Homeschool Network, Home School Legal Defense Association – Connecticut, The Education Association of Christian Homeschoolers, and the Connecticut State Department of Education – Homeschooling.

Delaware:

In Delaware, the state requires notice of your intent to homeschool before establishing yourself as a homeschool and annually before October 5th. The state also requires that your homeschool submit an end-of-year attendance report. You should also notify your public school of your intent to withdraw.

You are not required to teach specific subjects or use specific standardized tests if you choose to homeschool in Delaware. In general, children who are homeschooled may face roadblocks if they want to participate in public school sports in Delaware. However, other sports leagues and activities are available.

In the case that you decide to switch back to public school, it is up to the school to decide what grade to place your child in.

You can also check out the Delaware Department of Education’s Homeschooling page, Home School Legal Defense Association – Delaware, and Tri-State Homeschool, Inc. (DE, MD, PA, and NJ areas).

Florida:

In Florida, the state requires notice of your intent to homeschool, if you are homeschooling under Florida’s homeschool statute, within 30 days of beginning. It is recommended that you formally withdraw from your public school so that your student is not marked truant.

Florida does not require homeschooling parents to teach specific subjects but does require some level of assessment or testing for those using the homeschool statute. Homeschoolers may still be eligible to participate in sports or activities at their local public school.

In the case that you decide to switch back to public school during the school year, or switch the county you are homeschooling in, you must file a notice of termination of your homeschool with the state. If you start homeschooling in a new county, you should submit a new notice of intent.

Florida has some funding assistance options available to parents who are homeschooling their children. As of July 1, 2023, any homeschooler in the state can apply for Florida’s education savings account program. Participating families receive their child’s education funds (about $8,000) in an online account and can use those funds for homeschool expenses, online learning, or even an approved class at a local public school. Homeschoolers who participate agree to meet certain requirements, such as submitting a student learning plan, which other homeschoolers in the state do not need to meet. The education savings account program has spots for up to 20,000 homeschool students to participate in 2023-2024. 

You can also check out the Florida Department of Education’s Homeschooling page, the Florida Parent Educators Association, Home School Legal Defense Association – Florida, and the West Florida Home Education Support League.

Georgia:

In Georgia, the state requires notice of your intent to homeschool within 30 days of the start of homeschooling, and annually by September 1st afterwards. It is recommended that you formally withdraw from your current school so that your student is not marked truant.

If you choose homeschooling, the state requires you to teach specific subjects (such as reading, math, and science) and also requires some level of assessment for your child. In 2021, Georgia enacted a law that neighborhood schools must allow students to try out for sports teams and extracurricular activities. In return, participating homeschool students must take at least one class at the school. 

In the case that you decide to switch back to public school, you will need to create a withdrawal form from homeschool and have your enrolling school validate your homeschool work.

You may also want to check out the Georgia Home Education Association, the Georgia Department of Education’s Homeschooling page, Home School Legal Defense Association – Georgia, and Eagle’s Nest Christian Home Educators Association (ENCHEA).

Hawaii:

In Hawaii, the state requires notice of your intent to homeschool prior to beginning to homeschool. It is required that you withdraw from your current school through the notice of intent to homeschool that is given to your principal.

Hawaii does not require homeschooling parents to teach specific subjects but does require a structured curriculum and some level of assessment. In general, children who are homeschooled may face roadblocks if they want to participate in public school sports in Hawaii. However, other sports leagues and activities are available.

Also, Hawaii may have funding assistance available if you decide to homeschool through a charter homeschool program.

In the case that you decide to switch back to public school, you must submit notification to the principal of your zoned public school. You can also check out the Hawaii Homeschool Association, Home School Legal Defense Association – Hawaii, the Hawaii State Department of Education’s Homeschooling page, and Christian Homeschoolers of Hawaii.

Idaho:

In Idaho, the state does not require you to submit notice of your intent to homeschool. However, it is recommended that you formally withdraw from your public school so that your student is not marked truant.

If you choose to homeschool, you are required to teach subjects commonly taught in Idaho public schools, but specific standardized tests are not required. Keep in mind that your homeschooled child may be eligible to take classes at the local public school, or participate in sports, through the state’s dual enrollment programs.

Idaho may have funding assistance available if you homeschool through a public school program. The Home School Legal Defense Association has a great how-to about homeschooling in Idaho. You may also want to check out Homeschool Idaho or the North Idaho Home Educator’s Association

Illinois: 

In Illinois, the state does not require you to register your homeschool program or file a notice of your intent to homeschool. However, if you are withdrawing your child from another school, it is recommended that you inform the school of your decision so your student is not marked truant.

If you choose to homeschool, you are required to teach specific subjects (including language, science, and the fine arts) but specific standardized tests are not required. Homeschooled students may enroll part time at local public schools and request to participate in sports and activities, but schools are not required by law to grant this request. 

In the case that you decide to return to public school, the school will assess placement based on evaluation, test scores, samples of work, and/or curriculum. 

Illinois offers a tax credit up to $750 for educational expenses, which homeschooling families can be eligible for. You can learn more at Home School Legal Defense Association – Illinois, the Illinois State Board of Education’s Homeschooling page, and the Illinois Christian Home Educators.

Indiana:

In Indiana, the state does not require notice of your intent to homeschool. However, it is recommended that you formally withdraw your child from their current school so your student is not marked truant.

You are not required to teach specific subjects or use specific standardized tests if you choose to homeschool in Indiana. Homeschool students may be eligible to participate in classes, sports, or activities at local public schools, though restrictions may apply. Additionally, homeschoolers are eligible to receive some special education services from Indiana school districts. 

In the case that you decide to return to public school, the school may make a placement decision based on what grade the parent feels is appropriate, or use assessments to determine placement. 

Indiana offers a tax deduction of up to $1,000 per child for homeschooling expenses. Find out more at the Indiana Department of Education, the Home School Legal Defense Association – Indiana, the Indiana Home Educators’ Network, Indiana Foundation for Homeschooling, the Indiana Association of Home Educators and the Indiana Association of Home Educators Action.

Iowa:

In Iowa, notice of your intent to homeschool is required by September 1 or within 14 days of starting unless you are homeschooling via private instruction (IPI or PI). It is recommended that you formally withdraw your student from their current school so they are not marked truant.

The state does not require standardized testing for most homeschoolers but in some cases requires parents to teach specific subjects, like math and reading. Homeschool students in Iowa may still be eligible to participate in classes, sports, or activities at local public schools through dual enrollment. Additionally, homeschoolers are eligible to receive some special education services from Iowa school districts. 

Iowa offers a funding assistance program called HSAP (Homeschool Assistance Program), which may include access to free school books and a teacher of your public school’s choice. Your local public school district may offer HSAP to resident or open-enrolled homeschooled students; however, your district is not required to provide this option. Homeschool families are also eligible for a parental tuition tax credit of up to $500 per student.

You can learn more at the Iowa Department of Education, Homeschool Iowa, and the Home School Legal Defense Association – Iowa.

Kansas:

In Kansas, notice of your intent to homeschool is required. You must register as a non-accredited private school before starting to homeschool. It is also recommended that you formally withdraw from your public school so your student is not marked truant.

You are not required to teach specific subjects or use specific standardized tests if you choose to homeschool in Kansas. As for extracurriculars, a bill passed in 2023 makes it easier for homeschool students to participate in Kansas State High School Association activities, like sports and band.

In the case that you decide to return to public school, the school will test students for appropriate placement and decide what credits to accept.

You can learn more at the Home School Legal Defense Association – Kansas, the Christian Home Educators Confederation of Kansas (CHECK), Kansas Home Educators, and the Midwest Parent Educators.

Kentucky:

In Kentucky, notice of your intent to homeschool is required annually within two weeks of the school year beginning or ten days prior to starting if you are starting mid-year.  This notification should be sent to the superintendent of the local school board. Also, it is recommended that you formally withdraw from your public school so your student is not marked truant. Note that since there isn’t a homeschool statute in Kentucky, homeschool families technically operate under the private school statute.

If you choose to homeschool, you are required to teach specific subjects (like reading, writing, math, and history) but specific standardized tests are not required. In general, children who are homeschooled may face roadblocks if they want to participate in public school sports or activities in Kentucky. However, other sports leagues and activities are available.

Homeschool parents are required to report basic information such as names and ages of students, but local school districts are never allowed to demand information that is not legally required. In the case that you decide to return to public school, check with your school to see what their protocols are for assessment and placement.

You may also want to check out the state’s informational packet on homeschooling, Home School Legal Defense Association – Kentucky, and the Christian Home Educators of Kentucky.

Louisiana:

As of 2022, about 16,000 Louisiana families homeschool. In Louisiana, notice of your intent to homeschool is required within 15 days of starting and annually by October 1. If you initially begin to homeschool in the middle of the year, it is required that you file notice 12 months after your initial approval. Also, it is recommended that you formally withdraw from your public school so your student is not marked truant.

The state requires homeschooling families to teach subjects covered in public schools, and also requires some level of assessment of students using the home study option. Note that homeschool students in Louisiana may still be eligible to participate in classes, sports, or activities at local public schools, though restrictions may apply.

In the case that you decide to return to public school, check with your school for their protocol; each school has unique guidelines for placement.

Louisiana offers educational funding assistance that homeschoolers may be eligible for, such as the Louisiana Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) and the Louisiana homeschool tax deduction. You can learn more at the Louisiana Department of Education, Home School Legal Defense Association – Louisiana, and Homeschool Louisiana.

Maine:

As of 2022, about 5.6% of all Maine K-12 students choose homeschooling. In Maine, notice of your intent to homeschool is required within 10 days of starting and annually by September 1. It is recommended that you formally withdraw from your current school so your student is not marked truant.

The state requires homeschooling parents to teach specific subjects (like math, English, and science), and also requires some level of assessment of homeschooled students. Note that your homeschooled student might still be eligible to participate in sports or activities at your local public school.

In the case that you decide to return to public school, grade level placement is a decision that the local school makes; however, you can appeal this decision if necessary. 

Find out more at Home School Legal Defense Association – Maine, the Maine Department of Education’s Homeschooling page, the New England Happy Homeschoolers Facebook group, and Homeschoolers of Maine.

Maryland:

In Maryland, notice of your intent to homeschool is required immediately upon making this decision or your student will be considered truant. It is also required that you formally withdraw from your public school.

Note that Maryland homeschool families are never required to enroll their children in public school. If you receive information to the contrary, you may want to ask for legal assistance.

The state requires homeschooling parents to teach specific subjects (like math and English) and may also request to review samples of a homeschooling family’s education materials and work. In general, children who are homeschooled may face roadblocks if they want to participate in public school sports or activities in Maryland. However, other sports leagues and activities are available.

In the case that you decide to return to public school, placement decisions will vary by county, so contact your local school.

You can learn more at Home School Legal Defense Association – Maryland, the Maryland State Department of Education’s Homeschooling page, the Maryland Homeschool Association, the Maryland Association of Christian Home Educators, and Severn Run Classical Christian Homeschool Academy.

Massachusetts:

In Massachusetts, notice of your intent to homeschool is required annually in most districts; however, it does vary depending on your zoned district so check into their guidance. Also, it is recommended that you formally withdraw from your public school so your student is not marked truant.

The state requires homeschooling parents to teach specific subjects (including reading, geography, and U.S. history) and may require some level of assessment of homeschooled students. Note that homeschoolers in Massachusetts may still be eligible to participate in sports at local public schools, though restrictions apply. For example, the Saranac Lake Central School District approved a policy change this year to make extracurriculars more open to homeschoolers.

In the case that you decide to return to public school, your school requires notification within 30 days of your intent to switch. 

Find out more at the Home School Legal Defense Association – Massachusetts, the Massachusetts Home Learning Association, and the Massachusetts Homeschool Organization of Parent Educators (MassHOPE) 

Michigan:

You are not required to notify government or education authorities if you are homeschooling under Michigan’s homeschooling statute. However, submitting a notice of your intent to homeschool at the beginning of each school year is required if you are homeschooling as a nonpublic school. It is also recommended that you formally withdraw from your public school so your student is not marked truant.

If you choose to homeschool, you are required to teach specific subjects (like reading and math) but specific standardized tests are not required. Note that homeschool students in Michigan may be eligible to participate in sports at local public schools if they receive permission from their district.

In the case that you decide to return to public school, contact your local school as each school has their own unique placement guidelines.

Learn more at HSB, Inc., Metro Parent: How to Homeschool in Michigan, Home School Legal Defense Association – Michigan, Blue Water Homeschool Teens Cooperative, and the Michigan Christian Homeschool Network.

Minnesota:

In Minnesota, notice of your intent to homeschool is required by October 1 or within 15 days of withdrawing. Also, it is required that you formally withdraw from your public school.

The state requires homeschooling families to teach specific subjects (like reading, writing, math, and science) and also requires some level of assessment of students. Minnesota homeschoolers may still be eligible to participate in sports or activities at local public schools.

Minnesota offers some funding assistance for homeschool expenses through a tax deduction program.

In the case that you decide to return to public school, the school will place your student based on evaluation of their records.

You may also be interested in checking out the Minnesota Homeschoolers’ Alliance, Home School Legal Defense Association – Minnesota, the Minnesota Department of Education’s Homeschooling page, and Minnesota Association of Christian Home Educators.

Mississippi:

In Mississippi, notice of your intent to homeschool is required by September 15 or immediately upon your decision to homeschool if starting mid-year. Also, it is recommended that you formally withdraw your student so they are not marked truant.

The state does not require homeschooling families to teach specific subjects and does not require standardized testing for homeschoolers. In general, children who are homeschooled may face roadblocks if they want to participate in public school sports or activities in Mississippi. However, other sports leagues and activities are available.

In the case that you decide to return to public school, contact your local school to find out what their placement guidelines are as they each have their own process.

You can learn more at Home School Legal Defense Association – Mississippi, the Mississippi Homeschool Support Group, and the Mississippi Home Educators Association.

Missouri:

In Missouri, the state does not require notice of your intent to homeschool; however, it is recommended that you formally withdraw from your public school so your student is not marked truant.

For Missouri homeschoolers, the state requires families to teach specific subjects (like reading, writing, math, and science) but does not require specific standardized testing. Note that homeschool students may be eligible to participate in sports or activities at their local public school if they enroll there part-time.

As of 2022, qualifying homeschool students may be eligible to participate in the MOScholars Program. This program grants scholarships to students with special needs or from low-income families to use for certain educational expenses. Note that families who choose to participate may be required to undergo background checks and students may be required to take standardized tests.

You can also check out Home School Legal Defense Association – Missouri, Midwest Parent Educators, the Missouri Families for Home Education, and the Missouri Association of Teaching Christian Homes, Inc. (MATCH).

Montana:

In Montana, the state requires annual notice of your intent to homeschool. This notice should be sent to the superintendent of schools in your county. Also, it is recommended that you formally withdraw from your public school so your student is not marked truant.

If you choose homeschooling, then you are required to teach the basic subjects taught in public schools, but you are not required to use specific standardized tests. Homeschooled students in Montana may be eligible to participate in sports, activities, or classes at local public schools. In fact, a bill passed in 2023 clarified that homeschool students can enroll part-time in public schools, making it easier for families to blend home and public options.

In the case that you decide to return to public school, contact your local school to find out their placement guidelines.

You may also want to check out Home School Legal Defense Association – Montana, the Yellowstone Coalition of Home Educators, and the Montana Coalition of Home Education.

Nebraska:

In Nebraska, the state requires notice of your intent to homeschool by July 15 or promptly upon choosing to homeschool. The state also requires an annual information survey and parent representative form. It is recommended that you formally withdraw from your public school so your student is not marked truant.

If you choose homeschooling, you’re required to teach specific subjects (including language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, and health), but specific standardized tests are not required. Homeschooled students who enroll part-time at their local public school may be eligible to participate in sports and other activities.

In the case that you decide to return to public school during the school year, notify the Nebraska Department of Education.

You can learn more at Home School Legal Defense Association – Nebraska, Nebraska Homeschool, and the Nebraska Christian Home Educators Association.

Nevada:

In Nevada, the state requires a notice of intent to homeschool before you start and no later than 10 days after withdrawing. It is required that you formally withdraw from your public school.

If you choose homeschooling, you’re required to teach specific subjects (including language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, and health), but specific standardized tests are not required. Your homeschooled student might still be eligible to participate in sports or activities at the local public school. Plus, homeschoolers with special needs are eligible to receive special education services from local school districts.

In the case that you decide to return to public school, your student’s placement may be subject to testing and review of their work.

You may also want to check out the Nevada Department of Education – Homeschooling, Home School Legal Defense Association – Nevada, Nevada Homeschool Network, Nevada Moms, and RISE Education Resource Center.

New Hampshire:

In New Hampshire, it is required that you provide notice of your intent to homeschool within 5 days of starting and/or if you move to a new school district. It is recommended that you formally withdraw from your public school so your student is not marked truant.

The state requires homeschooling parents to teach specific subjects (including science, math, reading, and government) and also requires some level of assessment of homeschooled students. Your homeschooled student might still be eligible to participate in sports or activities at the local public school.

If you decide to stop homeschooling, you must file a written notice of termination. In the case that you decide to return to public school, your student’s placement will be determined based on the documentation you provide.

Homeschoolers may be eligible to apply for New Hampshire’s “Education Freedom Account” program, which allows low and middle-income students to receive about $4,700 of funds to customize their education. The funds can be used for tutoring or books, educational therapy, and more. In 2023, eligibility for the program was expanded – now students from families earning up to 350% of the federal poverty line can apply.

You can learn more at Home School Legal Defense Association – New Hampshire, Granite State Home Educators, and New Hampshire Homeschooling Coalition.

New Jersey:

 In New Jersey, there are more than 5,000 students homeschooling. It is not required that you provide notice of your intent to homeschool in New Jersey; however, it is recommended that you formally withdraw from your current school so your student is not marked truant.

The state requires homeschooling parents to give children an education that is academically “equivalent” to what he or she would receive at school, but does not require standardized testing for homeschoolers. While homeschool students in New Jersey are not legally prohibited from playing on public school sports teams, individual district policies often prevent them from participating. 

In the case that you decide to return to public school, your student’s placement may be based on standardized testing assessment.

You can also check out the New Jersey Department of Education and Home School Legal Defense Association – New Jersey.

New Mexico:

In New Mexico, it is required that you provide notice of your intent to homeschool within 30 days of starting and annually by August 1. It is recommended that you formally withdraw from your public school so your student is not marked truant.

If you choose homeschooling, you’re required to teach specific subjects (including reading, math, and science), but specific standardized tests are not required. Your child may still be eligible to participate in sports or classes at a local public school, but requirements may vary by school. 

If you decide to return to public or private school, you should disenroll your student from the homeschool system through the New Mexico Public Education Department. Your student’s placement will be determined by age or their score on state achievement tests – the local school board will determine credit acceptance.

You can learn more at the New Mexico Public Education Department, Home School Legal Defense Association – New Mexico, and the Christian Association of Parent Educators – New Mexico (CAPE NM).

New York:

There are about 54,000 students who homeschool across the Empire State! In New York, notice of your intent to homeschool is required within 14 days of starting and annually by July 1. Families in New York City should submit their paperwork to the NYC Department of Education Office of Homeschooling. Families outside of New York City should submit to their district’s superintendent. While homeschooling, families should also submit an annual individual home instruction plan and quarterly reports.

Homeschooling parents are required to teach specific subjects (such as reading, writing, and physical education) and assess their child annually. Unfortunately, children who are homeschooled may face roadblocks if they want to participate in public school sports or activities in New York. But, you can always look for other sports leagues and activities near you!

In the case that you decide to return to public school, the school will determine your student’s placement based on records, potential assessments, and the principal’s decision.

You can also check out Home School Legal Defense Association – New York and Loving Education at Home (LEAH).

North Carolina:

In North Carolina, notice of your intent to homeschool is required prior to starting. Also, it is recommended that you formally withdraw from your public school so your student is not marked truant.

While the state doesn’t lay out specific subjects that homeschooling families must teach, it does require that homeschooling students take a standardized test annually. In general, children who are homeschooled may face roadblocks if they want to participate in public school sports or activities in North Carolina. However, other sports leagues and activities are available.

North Carolina offers funding assistance for students with disabilities, including homeschooled students, through a state-funded program.

In the case that you decide to return to public school, you should notify the NC Division of Non-Public Education and contact your local principal for the enrollment process.

For more info, check out the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction’s Homeschool page, Home School Legal Defense Association – North Carolina, North Carolinians for Home Education, Alamance County Christian Home Educators, Central Carolina Home Educators, Inc., High Point Home Educators.

North Dakota:

In North Dakota, notice of your intent to homeschool is required at least 14 days prior to starting or within 14 days of moving and annually after that. Also, it is recommended that you formally withdraw from your public school so your student is not marked truant.

The state requires homeschooling parents to teach specific subjects (like reading, math, and physical education) and also requires standardized testing in certain grades. In some cases, homeschool students in North Dakota may still be eligible to participate in sports or activities at local public schools, though restrictions may apply.

In the case that you decide to return to public school, you may submit record-keeping documentation to the superintendent of your school.

You can also check out the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction – Homeschooling, Home School Legal Defense Association – North Dakota, and the North Dakota Home School Association.

Ohio:

In Ohio, it is required that you provide notice of your intent to homeschool no later than the first week of school or within one week of withdrawal. You must also provide notice annually and if you move. It is recommended that you formally withdraw from your current school so your student is not marked truant.

The state requires homeschooling parents to teach specific subjects (like language, math, and Ohio history) and assess their students annually. Note that homeschooled students in Ohio may still be eligible to participate in sports or classes at local public schools.

Ohio offers funding assistance if a homeschool student has an Individualized Education Program (IEP). These students may qualify for the Peterson Scholarship. Also, homeschool families in Ohio are eligible for a $250 tax credit for learning expenses

You can also check out the Ohio Department of Education’s Homeschooling page, Ohio Homeschooling Parents, Home School Legal Defense Association – Ohio, and the Christian Home Educators of Ohio.

Oklahoma:

In Oklahoma, it is not required to send notice of your intent to homeschool to the state or your local school. However, it is recommended that you formally withdraw from your current school so your student is not marked truant. 

The state does not define specific required subjects that homeschooling parents must teach, and does not require standardized testing for homeschoolers. In general, children who are homeschooled may face roadblocks if they want to participate in public school sports or activities in Oklahoma. However, other sports leagues and activities are available.

If you decide to return to public school during the year, your student may be required to complete a standardized test for placement.

Oklahoma offers limited funding assistance for homeschool families if you are enrolled via a virtual charter. Also, in 2023, lawmakers passed the Oklahoma Parental Tax Credit Act. Once this new tax credit program launches in January 2024, all homeschool students can apply for a refundable income tax credit. The credit will cover $1,000 of qualified learning expenses, including private online learning courses, academic tutoring, textbooks, curriculum, and instructional material, or fees for nationally standardized tests.

To learn more, you can also check out the Oklahoma State Department of Education’s Homeschooling page, Home School Legal Defense Association – Oklahoma, Homeschool Oklahoma, and the Christian Home Educators Fellowship.

Oregon:

In Oregon, about 4 to 5% of K-12 students are homeschooled. Notice of your intent to homeschool is required within 10 days of starting and should be sent to your local education service district. It is recommended that you formally withdraw from your public school so your student is not marked truant.

While the state doesn’t lay out specific subjects that homeschooling families must teach, it does require that homeschooling students take tests approved by the State Board of Education in certain grades. Note that homeschooled students in Oregon may still be eligible to participate in sports or activities at local public schools.

Oregon offers limited funding assistance for homeschooling if you are enrolled via a virtual charter, like Oregon Family School.

You may also want to check out the Oregon Department of Education’s Homeschooling page, the Oregon Home Education Network, Home School Legal Defense Association – Oregon, and the Oregon Christian Home Education Association Network.

Pennsylvania:

If you’re using the homeschooling statute in Pennsylvania, it is required that you provide notice of your intent to homeschool by submitting a notarized affidavit at the time of choosing homeschool and annually by August 1. It is recommended that you formally withdraw from your current school so your student is not marked truant.

The state requires homeschooling parents to teach specific subjects (like English, science, and health) and also requires standardized testing in specific grades if you are using the homeschooling statute. Note that homeschooled students in Pennsylvania may still be eligible to participate in sports or activities at local public schools. Also, homeschoolers with special learning needs are eligible to receive special education support and resources from local public school districts.

You can also check out the Home School Legal Defense Association – Pennsylvania, LCC Homeschool Association of PA, and the Christian Homeschool Association of Pennsylvania.

Rhode Island:

In Rhode Island, it is required that you provide notice of your intent to homeschool prior to starting. This should be submitted to your local school committee. Formally withdrawing from public school is required in some districts and recommended in all.

The state requires homeschooling parents to teach certain subjects (like reading, writing, and physical education), but does not require homeschoolers to take standardized tests. In some cases, homeschooled students in Rhode Island may still be eligible to participate in sports or activities at local public schools, though restrictions may apply.

In the case that you decide to return to public school, notify your district committee. Your student’s grade assignment may be up to the discretion of the individual school.

For more, check out the Rhode Island Department of Education’s Homeschooling page, Home School Legal Defense Association – Rhode Island, the Rhode Island Home Education Community, Enrich RI, and the Rhode Island Guild of Home Teachers.

South Carolina:

In South Carolina, if you are homeschooling under a homeschool statute, an application must be submitted to the board of trustees prior to starting. Also, it is recommended that you formally withdraw from your public school so your student is not marked truant.

The state requires homeschooling parents to teach specific subjects (like reading, math, and science) and also requires annual standardized tests for students using the homeschool statute. Note that homeschooled students in South Carolina may still be eligible to participate in sports or activities at local public schools.

You can learn more at the South Carolina Department of Education’s Homeschooling page, Home School Legal Defense Association – South Carolina, the South Carolina Home Educators Association, the South Carolina Association of Independent Home Schools, and the  Grow & Learn on Weekdays (GLOW).

South Dakota:

In South Dakota, it is required that you provide notice of your intent to homeschool within 30 days of beginning homeschooling. It is required that you formally withdraw from your public school.

The state requires homeschooling parents to include language arts and math in their curriculum, but standardized tests are not currently required. According to a bill passed in 2021 to empower parental choice, any homeschool student in South Dakota is eligible to participate in athletics, fine arts, or other activities sponsored by the South Dakota High School Activities Association.

In the case that you decide to switch back to public school, South Dakota schools may use a credit-by-exam program for placement.

For more, check out Home School Legal Defense Association – South Dakota, the Education Alliance of Christian Homeschoolers in South Dakota, and the South Dakota Christian Home Educators.

Tennessee:

In Tennessee, if you are an independent homeschool, it is required that you provide notice of intent to homeschool before the school year or upon choosing homeschool and annually thereafter. Formally withdrawing from public school is required in some districts and recommended for all districts.

While the state doesn’t lay out specific subjects that homeschooling families must teach, it does require that homeschooling students take standardized tests in some grades. Note that homeschooled students in Tennessee may still be eligible to participate in sports or activities at local public schools.

In the case that you decide to return to public school, your school will assess to determine grade level placement.

Tennessee offers funding assistance for students with special needs through the Special Needs Individualized Education Account Program. You can learn more at the Tennessee Department of Education’s Homeschooling page, Home School Legal Defense Association – Tennessee, the MidEast Tennessee Home Education Association, Memphis-area Home Education Association, and the Tennessee Home Education Association.

Texas:

The Texas Homeschool Coalition estimates that more than 750,000 students in the state are homeschooled. In Texas, it is not required that you provide notice of your intent to homeschool; however, it is recommended that you formally withdraw from your public school so your student is not marked truant.

The state requires homeschooling parents to teach certain subjects (including math, spelling, and good citizenship), but does not require homeschoolers to take standardized tests. In some cases, homeschooled students may still be eligible to participate in sports or activities at local public schools.

You may also want to check out the Texas Education Agency’s Homeschooling page, the Homeschool Association of the Lone Star State, Texas Home Educators, the Texas Homeschool Coalition, Greater Houston Area Home Educators, the Home School Legal Defense Association – Texas, and the Arlington Association of Home Educators.

Utah:

In Utah, it is required that you provide a notarized Utah homeschool affidavit prior to starting homeschool. It is also recommended that you formally withdraw your student from their current school so they are not marked truant.

The state does not define specific required subjects that homeschooling parents must teach, and does not require standardized testing for homeschoolers. Note that homeschooled students in Utah may still be eligible to participate in sports, activities, or classes at local public schools.

A new scholarship open to all Utah students, including all homeschoolers, will launch for the 2024-2025 school year: the Utah Fits All Scholarship Program. This education savings account program will give $8,000 in flexible education funding to families choosing to enroll in a nonpublic school option, like homeschool. Besides homeschool curriculum, families may be able to use the funds for other customized learning needs, including tutoring services, educational software, individual classes at a local public school, or dual enrollment at a technical college.

You can learn more at the Utah State Board of Education’s Homeschooling page, the Utah Home Education Association, Home School Legal Defense Association – Utah, and Utah Christian Home School Association.

Vermont:

In Vermont, it is required that you provide notice of your intent to homeschool by submitting the Home Study Enrollment Form between March 1 and August 1 annually. As of 2023, you are no longer required to include a minimum course of study in this notification. It is recommended that you formally withdraw your student from their public school so they are not marked truant. 

The state requires homeschooling parents to teach specific subjects (including communication skills, history, and the fine arts) and assess their children annually. In light of a new law passed in 2023, homeschool families are no longer required to submit these annual assessments to the Agency of Education. You can read more about this year’s changes to Vermont homeschooling law at the Home School Legal Defense Association

Note that homeschooled students in Vermont may still be eligible to participate in sports or classes at local public schools.

You can also check out the Vermont Home Education Network, Homeschooling Vermont Facebook group, and Home School Legal Defense Association – Vermont.

Virginia:

About 57,000 Virginia students are currently homeschooling. In Virginia, it is required that you provide notice of your intent to homeschool by August 15 or immediately upon choosing homeschool. A unanimous Virginia Supreme Court decision in June 2020 emphasized that this step is a simple notification rather than a request to the school board. This court decision also ruled that school boards cannot establish their own demands for homeschooling families. 

The state does not require homeschooling parents to teach specific subjects but may require some amount of standardized testing depending on the homeschool option chosen. In general, children who are homeschooled may face roadblocks if they want to participate in public school sports in Virginia. However, other sports leagues and activities are available.

It is recommended that you formally withdraw from your public school so your student is not marked truant. In the case that you decide to return to public school, your school will review your homeschool records and may administer tests for placement. 

You may also wish to check out the Home Educator’s Association of Virginia, the Organization of Virginia Homeschoolers, and Home School Legal Defense Association – Virginia.

Washington:

In Washington, notice of your intent to homeschool is required annually by September 15 or within two weeks of any quarter, trimester, or semester. It is recommended that you formally withdraw from your current school so your student is not marked truant.

The state requires homeschooling parents to teach specific subjects (including math, reading, and history) and also requires annual assessments for homeschooled students. Note that homeschoolers in Washington may still be eligible to participate in sports or activities at local public schools. Some Washington school districts even offer academic and enrichment activities for homeschool families through Parent Partnership Programs.

In the case that you decide to return to public school, your homeschool records will be reviewed for placement. Testing may be required to determine your student’s placement.

You can learn more at Washington Home School Organization, the Christian Family Home Educators (CFHE), Home School Legal Defense Association – Washington, and the Christian Heritage Home Educators of Washington.

West Virginia:

In West Virginia, notice of your intent to homeschool is required, either by seeking school board approval or by submitting a notice of intent. This notice of intent is required before you begin homeschooling or when moving to a new county. Also, it is recommended that you formally withdraw from your public school so your student is not marked truant.

While misinformation about homeschooling has recently spread in a couple of West Virginia counties, the truth is that homeschool students in West Virginia receive credit, diplomas, and transcripts recognized by state law. 

The state requires homeschooling parents to teach certain subjects, and also may require some level of assessment of homeschoolers. Note that, in some cases, homeschoolers in West Virginia may still be eligible to participate in sports or activities at their local public school. Additionally, West Virginia has strong statutory language advocating for a student’s right to part-time enrollment. With approval from their county board, a homeschooler can take a course at a local public school.

You may also want to check out WV Home Educators Association, Home School Legal Defense Association – West Virginia, and Christian Home Educators of West Virginia.

Wisconsin:

In Wisconsin, it is required that you provide notice of your intent to homeschool by October 15, annually. Also, it is recommended that you formally withdraw from your public school so your student is not marked truant.

The state requires homeschooling parents to teach certain subjects (like reading, math, and social studies) but does not require homeschoolers to take standardized tests. Note that homeschooled students in Wisconsin may still be eligible to participate in sports or activities at local public schools.

In the case that you decide to return to public school during the school year, you should notify the school via form PI-1206 or by contacting the School Management Services Team at the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. Placement is determined by each district individually.

You can learn more at the Wisconsin Parents Association, Home School Legal Defense Association – Wisconsin, Wisconsin State Homeschool Association, and Green Bay Area Christian Homeschoolers.

Wyoming:

In Wyoming, it is required that you provide notice of your intent to homeschool annually with curriculum prior to the school year beginning or prior to starting to homeschool. It is recommended that you formally withdraw from your public school so your student is not marked truant.

The state requires homeschooling parents to teach certain subjects (including reading, writing, and math), but does not require homeschoolers to take standardized tests. Note that homeschoolers in Wyoming may still be eligible to participate in sports or activities at local public schools.

In 2023, legislators expanded the definition of homeschooling in Wyoming so that it can include more than one family. This makes it easier for homeschoolers to form co-ops and collaborate without losing homeschool protections.

You can also check out Home School Legal Defense Association – Wyoming and Homeschoolers of Wyoming.

Washington, D.C.

All parents in D.C. have the freedom to homeschool their children, provided they meet certain requirements. In D.C., notice of your intent to homeschool must be filed to the Office of the State Superintendent of Education by August 15 or 15 days before beginning homeschooling. D.C. requires homeschooling parents to have a high school diploma or its equivalent to homeschool. 

D.C. requires homeschooling parents to teach specific subjects (including language arts, math, and music) but does not require homeschoolers to take standardized tests. In some cases, homeschoolers in D.C. can participate in public school sports and activities, but restrictions and limitations apply.

It is recommended that you formally withdraw from your public school so your student is not marked truant. In the case that you decide to return to public school, your homeschool records may be reviewed for placement.

Learn more about homeschool laws and how to homeschool in D.C. at the Home School Legal Defense Association. You may also be interested in checking out the DC Homeschooling Program and Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling Home Educators.

Shareable Facts about Homeschooling

Homeschool Hacks & Tips

As you seek out your own homeschool community, here are some tips and hacks from experienced homeschoolers to get you started: 

Find more suggestions at “Easy Tips and Advice from the Experts to Handle Homeschooling.”


The information in this guide is designed to help families who are considering homeschooling in their decision-making process. Our mission is to provide families with the information they need about all the school options available – traditional public, public charter, public magnet, private, online, and at home – so they can choose the right fit for their child. Read more guides about choosing other types of schools.

The Ultimate Guide to a Public School Transfer (Open Enrollment)

Tens of millions of kids across America attend traditional public schools across all 50 states. Maybe you went to one, or maybe your child attends a traditional public school. Perhaps you even decided to rent or buy a home or apartment because you wanted your child to attend the traditional public school nearby. But what if you want to make a public school transfer?

Most students who attend traditional public schools are assigned to attend these schools by school district officials – based on school boundary maps and zoning. These schools are tuition-free and must accept all students, regardless of their previous academic performance or special learning needs.

What do you need to know about public school choice?

Get a quick rundown.

But did you know that traditional public schools can also be schools of choice? You might just be able to choose a traditional public school outside of your neighborhood or zone, and still pay no tuition! As you’ll see below, most states today have rules allowing for school transfers, boundary exceptions, or some type of public school choice, which is often referred to as open enrollment. These rules make it possible for parents to choose a great public school for them, whether it’s in their neighborhood or across town!

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What is Public School Open Enrollment?

Open enrollment is an important form of public school choice. It allows parents to choose public schools outside of their assigned neighborhood. That way, families can choose the best free public school for their child, even if it’s not in their zip code.

Each state has different open enrollment laws for public schools. Allowing students to attend other traditional public schools within their assigned district is called intradistrict enrollment. Allowing students to attend public schools outside their district is called interdistrict enrollment.

All 50 states permit public school transfers in at least some cases, but access to open enrollment varies widely by state. Several states, like West Virginia and Kansas, have passed laws expanding open enrollment policies over the past few years, so a public school transfer may be more available to you than it was in the past!

If open enrollment is available to you, you can take advantage of it by visiting multiple schools and discovering which is the best school of choice for your family. You can use our free Schools Near Me tool to find various public schools to consider. After all, public schools aren’t all the same. They may differ in learning methods and one may just “feel different” than another to you.

Common Questions about Traditional Public Schools

How do parents feel about public school open enrollment?

According to recent polling by Morning Consult, more than 70% of school parents say they support students being able to select and transfer to a public school of their choice in another district. 

How many public school districts are in the U.S.? And, how many public school teachers are there?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, there are more than 13,300 public school districts in the U.S. And, there are more than 3.8 million full and part-time teachers in public schools.

What public school am I zoned for?

Often, your zip code determines what school district you are in. If you are unsure, you can search for your school district. Once you know your district, you can visit the district website to find your assigned school. Don’t forget that there may be open enrollment options that allow you to attend any school in the district, or even schools outside of the district!

How are public schools managed?

Traditional public schools are run by local school districts. These school districts are usually overseen by elected school boards. All public schools must follow education laws in the state. Each state has its own teacher certification policies. Usually, all or most teachers in public schools must be certified by the state to teach.

How much does public school cost?

Traditional public schools don’t charge tuition or entrance fees. The costs for public schools are paid by taxpayers in the form of local, state, and federal taxes. You can search for what your public school spends at Project Nickel. You can also explore the average per-pupil spending in your state’s public schools below.

How much is a public school teacher salary?

As of the 2021-2022 school year, the average public school teacher salary was about $66,397.

Public Schools of Choice in Your State

Every state has traditional public schools, but does your state offer open enrollment, which allows you to choose schools outside your neighborhood, zone, or district? Check out your state’s parent guide or scroll below to learn whether you can use open enrollment to make a public school transfer. You can also contact your local district to learn more.

In 12 states parents may be able to select any traditional public school for their child, in any school district.

In 21 states, there are at least some situations where schools are required to participate in open enrollment. For example, some states guarantee open enrollment to families who wish to transfer out of a low-performing school, or families who live too far from their assigned school. In these states, parents meeting certain requirements are guaranteed choice. Open enrollment may be optional in other cases.

An additional 16 states have allowed districts and schools to decide whether to participate in open enrollment. In these cases, families must request and receive school district approval to use open enrollment. Access to public school transfers in these states vary widely – in some, transfers are readily available while in others, transfers are rarely permitted.

In 1 state, North Carolina, open enrollment is generally not permitted, but there are still select cases where families have access to “choice zones” or transfers.

AL AK AZ AR CA CO CT DE FL GA HI ID IL IN IA KS KY LA ME MD MA MI MN MS MO MT NE NV NH NJ NM NY NC ND OH OK OR PA RI SC SD TN TX UT VT VA WA WV WI WY DC

Parents of students meeting certain criteria may choose
Parents are free to choose any public school they wish
In general, the state does not permit open enrollment, but families can choose in rare exceptions
Parents must receive school district approval to choose
Parents can apply to any school via a lottery

Source: Education Commission of the States, 2023; Independent research by NSCW

Alabama:

In most states, families have some “open enrollment” options that allow parents to choose traditional public schools outside of the schools assigned to their children by their districts. In Alabama, you can transfer your child to a different public school if you are zoned for a “failing school.” In other cases, if you choose a traditional public school, it will likely need to be the school assigned by your district.

The average per-pupil spending in Alabama public schools is $10,683. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Alabama State Department of Education.

 

Alaska:

Alaska has limited open enrollment laws for public schools. What this means is that parents of students who are assigned to a particular neighborhood school may in some cases be able to transfer their children to another school in their district. For example, the Fairbanks North Star Borough School District has an online application portal where families can apply for a school outside their zoned “attendance area.” In other cases, children may be required to attend the school assigned to them by their district. Contact your school district to learn more.

The average per-pupil spending in Alaska public schools is $19,540. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Alaska Department of Education & Early Development.

 

Arizona:

Arizona has unrestricted open enrollment for public school. What this means is that you can send your child to any public school in Arizona, regardless of where you live or where the school is located, as long as the school has capacity. You can take advantage of this option by visiting multiple public schools near you and discovering which is the best fit for your family. Importantly, Arizona has a law prohibiting public schools from charging tuition for a transfer student, so this option is always free.

Each district’s open enrollment policies must be available in English and Spanish, and must include transportation provisions. These include transportation up to about 20 miles each way for students with a disability or Individualized Education Program (IEP), and can include other students, too. For example, you can read about the open enrollment process in the Scottsdale Unified School District.

The average per-pupil spending in Arizona public schools is $9,611. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Arizona Department of Education and Office of the Governor – School Choice.

One Arizona public school leader we interviewed, Candice Stump of Coyote Springs Elementary School, described her school’s mission this way: “We’re about educating every kid. We’re a co-teaching school. We’re an inclusive school. All of our kids get the opportunity, third through sixth grade, to be gifted and talented or what we would refer to as enriched. I think there’s a lot of misconceptions that for a good education you have to skim the top and only have those kids attend the schools.”

 

Arkansas:

In Arkansas, there are some limits on open enrollment, like seat capacity, but families may be able to transfer to a public school of choice beyond their neighborhood school. The LEARNS Act, passed in 2023, eliminated a cap on the number of students allowed to transfer, making open enrollment more accessible to families statewide.

If you would like to participate in open enrollment, contact your local district. Arkansas law prohibits districts from charging tuition for transfer students, so open enrollment is always free. Generally, however, transportation is not covered by the school you use open enrollment to select, unless that school district is under facilities distress or a special agreement is made between the receiving and sending districts.

The average per-pupil spending in Arkansas public schools is $11,266. Find out more at the Arkansas Department of Education or view a school choice transfer application to get started.

 

California:

In California, parents of students assigned to low-performing schools may be able to transfer their children to another school based on the state’s limited open enrollment laws. In general, school districts in California can also set their own open enrollment policies, so parents can check with their local district to learn more. As a real-world example, the William S. Hart Union High School District only accepts transfers within its district for a few student groups, including victims of bullying, foster youth, and children of active military.

Parents may be able to request that the school they select through open enrollment provides transportation assistance.

The average per-pupil spending in California public schools is $14,985. Find out more about public schools in your state at the California Department of Education.

 

Colorado:

Colorado has unrestricted open enrollment for public schools. What this means is that you may be able to send your child to any public school in Colorado, regardless of where you live or where the school is located. You can take advantage of this important option by visiting multiple public schools near you and discovering which is the best fit for your family. Since Colorado has a law prohibiting public schools from charging tuition for transfer students, open enrollment is always a free option for families.

As a real-world example of the transfer process, you may wish to view the online application for transfers within the Cherry Creek School District. Schools may prioritize the transfer requests of certain student groups, such as students wishing to transfer out of low-performing schools. Also note that, in Colorado, transfer students may need to reapply each year.

The average per-pupil spending in Colorado is $12,255. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Colorado Department of Education.

 

Connecticut:

Connecticut has restricted open enrollment for public school. What this means is that parents in some Connecticut cities may be able to choose traditional public schools outside of their districts. This “Open Choice Program” applies in Hartford, Bridgeport, New Haven, and New London, and may apply in other cities. Transfers within districts are sometimes an option as well. As a real-world example, you may wish to view the intradistrict transfer application for Norwalk Public Schools

Connecticut prohibits districts from charging tuition for transfer students, so open enrollment is always a free option for families. If you live in an area of Connecticut with open enrollment, you can take advantage of this option by visiting multiple public schools near you and discovering which is the best fit for your family. Keep in mind that local boards of education decide whether to provide transportation for students participating in open enrollment.

The average per-pupil spending in Connecticut is $22,769. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Connecticut State Department of Education.

 

Delaware:

Delaware has unrestricted open enrollment for public school. What this means is that you can send your child to any public school in Delaware, regardless of where you live or where the school is located. As long as the school has room, your child should be accepted. You can take advantage of this valuable option by visiting multiple public schools near you and discovering which is the best fit for your family.

While districts are not allowed to charge tuition for transfer students, parents are responsible for transportation of students participating in open enrollment. Families interested in submitting choice applications for participating public school districts in Delaware can do so online at SchoolChoiceDE. The deadline for applications is usually around mid-January for the upcoming school year. In Delaware, districts are required to post their open enrollment policies on their website, so you may also want to check out your district’s website!

The average per-pupil spending in Delaware is $17,448. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Department of Education.

 

Florida:

Florida has unrestricted open enrollment for public school. What this means is that you can send your child to any public school in Florida, regardless of where you live or where the school is located. Each school must post information about capacity and how to apply on its website, and schools are not allowed to charge tuition.

Families can apply for a transportation scholarship that can cover transportation costs and can help with the expenses of attending a public school that is different from the one the student has been assigned to. Currently, approximately 4,450 students participate in this program. Learn more at Step Up for Students.

For a real-world example, check out Polk County Public Schools’ process for open enrollment. Generally, parents are responsible for transportation of students participating in open enrollment.

The average per-pupil spending in Florida is $10,401. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Florida Department of Education.

 

Georgia:

In Georgia, families can send their child to any public school within their school district as long as the school has room and has been open for at least four years. Schools cannot charge tuition for within-district transfers.

Also, in some cases, families can choose public schools outside their district; contact your local school district to see if this is an option for you. For a real-world example of the transfer process and timeline, check out Atlanta Public Schools’ application process. Note that parents are usually responsible for transportation of students participating in open enrollment.

The average per-pupil spending in Georgia is $12,145. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Georgia Department of Education.

 

Hawaii:

In Hawaii, the state operates as a single school district divided into 15 “complex areas.” Hawaii parents should contact the state education agency about its open enrollment policies, and whether they can consider schools outside their assigned area. A “geographic exception” transfer may be allowed, for example, if a student wishes to attend a public school with a special program of study not offered in their home school. Public schools are not allowed to charge tuition for transfer students.

The average per-pupil spending in Hawaii is $16,550. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Hawaii State Department of Education.

 

Idaho:

Idaho has unrestricted open enrollment for public school. What this means is that you can likely send your child to any public school in Idaho regardless of where you live or where the school is located. You can take advantage of this valuable option by visiting multiple public schools near you and discovering which is the best fit for your family. For a real-world example of the transfer process, check out Boise School District’s application guidelines. Parents are responsible for transportation of students participating in open enrollment. 

A law passed in 2023 updates Idaho’s enrollment law and makes a few changes. For example, while transfer students previously had to reapply annually, the new law doesn’t require families to reapply after two years at a public school of their choice.

Also, don’t forget that through the state’s Advanced Opportunities program, every public school student in Idaho is allocated $4,125 to use in grades 7-12. These funds can be used for dual credits, Advanced Placement Exam fees, professional certifications, workforce training, or other qualified expenses.

The average per-pupil spending in Idaho is $9,053. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Idaho Department of Education.

 

Illinois:

Illinois has limited open enrollment laws. In some cases, parents can visit multiple schools and select the one best for their child. Illinois families should check with their local district to see if it is an option to transfer schools within their district. In general, Illinois families cannot transfer to public schools outside their district. In the limited cases where a transfer to another district is possible, families may be charged fees.

For a real-world example of the transfer process, check out the application materials for intradistrict transfers in the Community Consolidated School District 15.

The average per-pupil spending in Illinois is $18,316. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Illinois State Board of Education.

 

Indiana:

In Indiana, parents have restricted open enrollment. What this means is that Indianapolis Public Schools requires schools within the district to allow transfers. And in other districts, students can request to transfer to any public school of choice, provided the school has a policy allowing for open enrollment. 75,000 students participated in interdistrict open enrollment in 2021!

In particular, parents can request that their child transfer to another district if there are crowded conditions at their current school or if another school district offers curriculum important to their child’s vocational aspirations.

It’s worth noting that some districts may require tuition fees for transfer students. However, a new law passed in 2024 may eliminate fees for out-of-district transfers starting July 1. 

If you would like to participate in open enrollment, contact your local district to learn more.

For a real-world example, check out Noblesville Schools’ transfer process. Keep in mind that some districts may charge tuition for transfer students.

The average per-pupil spending in Indiana is $11,538. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Indiana Department of Education.

 

Iowa:

Iowa has flexible open enrollment for public school. Based on Iowa’s recently-expanded laws, families can generally apply to any traditional public school district at any time during the year. Of course, schools may deny a request if there is not enough classroom space. Also, districts can set their own policies for transfers within their district.

For a real-world example of the transfer process, check out Davenport Community Schools’ open enrollment application.

Some students participating in open enrollment, including those meeting certain income guidelines, are provided transportation to their public school of choice by their assigned district. Once a student’s open enrollment request is approved, the family does not need to re-apply each school year. 

The average per-pupil spending in Iowa is $13,835. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Iowa Department of Education and Iowa Legal Aid.

 

Kansas:

Currently, some school districts in Kansas may allow open enrollment. Since districts currently set their own open enrollment policies in Kansas, parents should check with their local school district for more information. For a real-world example, check out Shawnee Mission School District’s transfer policies. When a student participates in open enrollment, the two school districts must work out a transportation plan to share costs amongst themselves.

Open enrollment will soon be expanding in Kansas! A bill passed in 2022 will allow students to transfer to any public school district with the room to take them, starting in 2024.

The average per-pupil spending in Kansas is $13,449. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Kansas State Department of Education.

 

Kentucky:

Kentucky has more than 170 public school districts and flexible open enrollment for public school. What this means is that in many cases you can choose to send your child to a public school in your district other than the one you have been assigned. Additionally, as of July 2022, all Kentucky families are able to apply to public schools in other districts. If you would like to participate in open enrollment, contact your local district to learn more. In some cases, receiving districts in Kentucky charge fees for out-of-district students. 

Open enrollment is a valuable school choice. Just remember to ask the deadline and application process for any public school district you are interested in transferring into. For example, open enrollment in Fayette County Public Schools usually takes place after spring break each year. Additionally, keep in mind that Kentucky high school students who transfer may be required to wait a year before participating in athletics at their new school. 

If you live in Jefferson County, note that the large district’s assignment plan will be dramatically changing starting in the 2023-2024 school year. “Choice zones” will be established to give families more options near their homes and expand magnet offerings.

The average per-pupil spending in Kentucky is $12,126. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Kentucky Department of Education.

 

Louisiana:

In most cases in Louisiana, each district decides whether it will participate in open enrollment. So, Louisiana parents should check with their local school district if they wish to participate in open enrollment. The state only requires districts to offer open enrollment in certain circumstances, such as when students wish to transfer from a school in academic distress to a school that is not in academic distress. New Orleans families wishing to transfer schools can find information and apply online at Nola Public Schools.

Students participating in open enrollment are provided transportation by their public school of choice if that school is closer to the student’s residence than their assigned school.

The average per-pupil spending in Louisiana is $13,397. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Louisiana Department of Education.

 

Maine:

In Maine, the state allows districts to set their own open enrollment policies. So, Maine parents should check with their district if they would like to transfer their child to a different public school. For instance, Portland Public Schools District only allows families to choose a school “out of neighborhood” in a few circumstances, such as when there has been documented harassment at the assigned school. When a transfer is allowed, districts are not permitted to charge tuition.

If the reason for a family participating in open enrollment in another district is because their district does not offer a school, their district provides transportation. In other situations, the parents are responsible for transportation.

The average per-pupil spending in Maine is $17,671. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Maine Department of Education.

 

Maryland:

Most states have some form of open enrollment. Unfortunately, Maryland only offers public open enrollment in a few circumstances. For example, a student may be able to request a school transfer if they move during the school year, if they are a child of an employee at the school they wish to transfer into, or if a health professional recommends a different school environment.

For a real-world example of the transfer process, check out the “Change of School Assignment Booklet” for Montgomery Public Schools, Maryland’s largest district.

The average per-pupil spending in Maryland is $16,417. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Maryland State Department of Education.

 

Massachusetts:

In Massachusetts, each district decides whether it will participate in open enrollment. For the 2021-2022 school year, 170 Massachusetts districts (53% of districts statewide) chose to participate. Some of these districts, however, only allowed transfers for certain grades. If you are interested in transferring your child to a different public school than you are assigned, you should talk to your local school district to learn whether it is available for you. In Massachusetts, districts cannot charge tuition for transfer students.

For an example of the transfer process and timeline in your state, check out Boston Public Schools’ transfer guidelines. Parents are generally responsible for transportation when their student is participating in open enrollment, unless the transfer addresses racial imbalances or the student qualifies for free or reduced-price lunch.

The average per-pupil spending in Massachusetts is $20,376. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

 

Michigan:

In Michigan, districts can generally choose whether to participate in open enrollment. Intradistrict open enrollment is only mandatory when a school is unaccredited for three years in a row. So, depending on the district and their school’s performance, parents may have the option to transfer their child to a different public school. If so, they are responsible for transporting their child to that school.

Since Michigan districts set their own guidelines, dates and application procedures for school transfers can vary greatly. For example, Farmington Public Schools’ application deadline was January 27, 2023 for the 2023-2024 school year. 

The average per-pupil spending in Michigan is $14,085. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Michigan Department of Education.

 

Minnesota:

Minnesota offers some open enrollment. Parents can choose a traditional public school outside of their district based on the state’s open enrollment laws, and also may be able to choose another school within their district, depending on their local school board. In the 2020-2021 school year, about 10% of Minnesota students used open enrollment! 

Since no two public schools are exactly the same, open enrollment can valuably extend a family’s educational options and help them find the best match for their child. If you are interested in this choice, note that transfer applications are usually due by mid-January for the following fall. In most transfers to schools in a different district, the receiving school district provides transportation once the student is within the district border, and can reimburse income-eligible students for their travel there. Minnesota districts are not permitted to charge tuition for transfer students.

The average per-pupil spending in Minnesota is $14,378. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Minnesota Department of Education.

 

Mississippi:

In Mississippi, the state allows each district to set its own open enrollment policies; the state only requires districts to offer open enrollment if parents live 30 miles away from their child’s assigned school. For a real-world example of the transfer process, check out Jackson Public Schools’ guidelines for applying for an in-district or district-to-district transfer.

When an agreement between school districts is made allowing a student to participate in open enrollment, it must include transportation provisions. Keep in mind that, in some cases in Mississippi, receiving districts charge tuition.

The average per-pupil spending in Mississippi is $10,170. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Mississippi Department of Education.

 

Missouri:

In Missouri, parents have restricted open enrollment. Some Missouri parents, such as those who live in school districts that have lost state accreditation, may be able to choose a traditional public school in another district for their child. In some cases, including when transferring from a school that is unaccredited, the district provides transportation.

In general, Missouri districts can set their own guidelines for transfers within districts. So, dates and application procedures for transfers can vary. For an example of the transfer process and timeline, check out Springfield Public Schools’ guidelines.

The average per-pupil spending in Missouri is $11,865. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

 

Montana:

Currently in Montana, the state allows each district to set its own open enrollment policies; Montana only requires districts to offer open enrollment if parents or guardians live too far from their child’s assigned school. So, if you wish to make a public school transfer, contact your local school district to see if this is an option for you.

For an example of what the transfer process may look like, check out Missoula County Public Schools’ guidelines for attending a high school other than the one you are zoned for. When an agreement between school districts is made allowing a student to participate in open enrollment, it includes transportation provisions.

A bill passed in 2023 will make important changes to public school transfer options for the 2024-2025 school year onward. The new law standardizes open enrollment in public schools across the state, making it easier (and guaranteeing it is free) for families to choose the best public school fit for their child. 

The average per-pupil spending in Montana is $13,299. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Montana Office of Public Instruction.

 

Nebraska:

Nebraska has flexible open enrollment for public schools. What this means is that you are likely able to send your child to any public district in Nebraska, regardless of where you live or where the school is located. For a real-world example, see how Grand Island Public Schools accepts students outside of the city’s limits. You can also read the Nebraska Department of Education’s answers to frequently asked questions about switching school districts in your state. Transfers between schools within Nebraska districts are common as well.

In 2023, Nebraska improved transparency about open enrollment, signing a bill requiring school districts to post their open enrollment policies on their websites.

Transportation is typically the responsibility of the parents or provided by the receiving district for a fee unless the student is eligible for free or reduced-price lunch, part of a diversity focus program, or a student with learning disabilities, in which case transportation is typically free.

The average per-pupil spending in Nebraska is $13,826. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Nebraska Department of Education.

 

Nevada:

In general in Nevada, each district can set its own open enrollment policies. So, Nevada parents should check with their local district if they would like to transfer their child. If they choose to participate in open enrollment, the school to which they were assigned will cover transportation costs.

For an example of the transfer process and timeline in Nevada, check out Clark County School District’s change of school assignment application.

The average per-pupil spending in Nevada is $10,450. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Nevada Department of Education.

 

New Hampshire:

In New Hampshire, the state allows each district to set its own open enrollment policies. New Hampshire parents wanting to transfer their child to a different public school than the one they are assigned should contact their local school district to see if this is an option. In 2021, the state made this process more defined for parents if their student is experiencing “manifest educational hardship.”

For a real-world example of the transfer process and timeline in New Hampshire, check out Kearsarge Regional School District’s guidelines for transfer requests.

If the public school of choice is within the same district, transportation is provided. If it is in a different school district, parents are responsible for transportation.

The average per-pupil spending in New Hampshire is $19,433. Find out more about public schools in your state at the New Hampshire Department of Education.

 

New Jersey:

In New Jersey, the state allows each district to set its own open enrollment policies. New Jersey parents wanting to transfer their child to a different public school than the one they are assigned should contact their local school district or search choice districts at the New Jersey Department of Education. For the 2023-2024 school year, there were more than 120 participating choice districts! Each district has a unique choice application that families should submit directly to that district.

For students living farther than 2 or 2.5 miles from their public school of choice but closer than 20 miles, the sending district is responsible for transporting the child to their new school.

The average per-pupil spending in New Jersey is $22,160. Find out more about public schools in your state at the New Jersey Department of Education. Families in Newark may also wish to explore public schools using My Schools Newark.

 

New Mexico:

New Mexico has restricted open enrollment. In New Mexico, parents who live near low-performing schools may transfer their children to another school inside or outside their district. Parents in other circumstances should check with their local school district. Timing and procedures for open enrollment may vary by district. For a real-world example, check out Albuquerque Public Schools’ transfer guidelines.

If a student participating in open enrollment is choosing a different school within the same district, the district will provide transportation or reimburse parents’ costs. If the family selects a school in a different school district, parents are responsible for transportation.

The average per-pupil spending in New Mexico is $12,127. Find out more about public schools in your state at the New Mexico Public Education Department.

 

New York:

In New York, each district decides whether it will participate in open enrollment. Open enrollment is a valuable choice that refers to whether parents can send their children to any public school, regardless of where it is located or what their zip code is. If you would like to participate in open enrollment, check with your local school district to see if this is available.

The New York City Department of Education lists several reasons families may request school transfers. These include an accessibility need, a sibling being at a different school, a travel hardship or move, or a safety concern.

The average per-pupil spending in New York is $26,571. Find out more about public schools in your state at the New York State Education Department.

 

North Carolina:

Most states have some form of open enrollment, which refers to whether parents can send their child to a public school other than their assigned school. Unfortunately, North Carolina families generally do not have open enrollment options.

There are, however, a few circumstances where a transfer might be possible. For example, a student may be able to request a school transfer if they move during the school year, if they are a child of an employee at the school they wish to transfer into, or if they are experiencing a unique hardship that would be mitigated by a transfer. For a real-world example, you may wish to check out Lenoir County Public Schools’ transfer request form.

There are also some districts, like Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools, that have “choice zones” giving families a few options of schools to choose from.

The average per-pupil spending in North Carolina is $10,655. Find out more about public schools in your state at the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction.

 

North Dakota:

As of 2023, North Dakota offers some newly expanded open enrollment options for families. Now, North Dakota parents can transfer their child to any public school district; districts may only deny applications for a few reasons, such as lack of capacity. For information about whether transfers within their district are available, families should contact their local school district.

For an example of what the transfer process may look like, check out West Fargo Public Schools’ in-district transfer request guidelines. Note that in some cases in North Dakota, fees may be attached to transfers.

In some cases, such as when a transferring student was a victim of violence, transportation assistance may be available

The average per-pupil spending in North Dakota is $15,140. Find out more about public schools in your state at the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction.

 

Ohio:

Ohio offers some open enrollment for public school. Based on Ohio’s laws, each school district in Ohio must have a clear policy regarding in-district transfer applications. For example, check out Willoughby-Eastlake’s application form for transfers within the district. Annually, each district can choose whether to allow for transfers between districts. So, contact your local school district if you wish to participate in open enrollment. Note that, in some cases in Ohio, there may be fees attached to student transfers.

In most cases, parents are responsible for transportation to the new public school of choice, or at least for getting their student to a regular bus stop along the school’s route. Low-income families or those participating in a court-approved desegregation plan may be reimbursed for transportation to that bus stop or provided transportation directly, respectively.

The average per-pupil spending in Ohio is $14,613. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Ohio Department of Education.

 

Oklahoma:

In Oklahoma, students can request a transfer to a school in any district, regardless of where they live. What’s more, public school districts cannot charge students tuition. The state does allow districts to set capacity limits for transfer students, and sometimes spots are only available in certain grades. For an example of what the transfer process may look like, check out Norman Public Schools’ transfer guidelines. If their transfer request is denied, parents can appeal to the local school board to review the case.

If parents request it, their children can be transported by the public school of choice from a stop within that school’s school district, provided parents transport them to the district route. Alternatively, the assigned school district can create an agreement with the new school district to cooperate on transportation. For parents in Oklahoma who want to know more about open enrollment in their local district, Every Kid Counts Oklahoma offers a comprehensive list of guidelines and key information that may be helpful in your search.

The average per-pupil spending in Oklahoma is $10,498. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Oklahoma State Department of Education.

 

Oregon:

Unfortunately, Oregon currently has very limited open enrollment policies for public schools. The state of Oregon did establish temporary open enrollment between school districts in 2012 to support school choice, but the policy ended in 2019.

While open enrollment is not widely available to Oregon families, parents may still request an interdistrict transfer (which requires the consent of both the sending and receiving district). Some districts, such as Reynolds School District, also allow families to request an “area exception” for which school they attend within their district.

The average per-pupil spending in Oregon is $13,875. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Oregon Department of Education.

 

Pennsylvania:

In Pennsylvania, the state allows each district to set its own open enrollment policies. So, Pennsylvania parents wanting to transfer their child to a different public school than the one they are assigned should contact their local school district.

For a real-world example, check out Lancaster School District’s guidelines for both intradistrict and interdistrict transfers.

The average per-pupil spending in Pennsylvania is $17,884. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

Rhode Island:

In Rhode Island, the state allows each district to set its own open enrollment policies. Rhode Island parents wanting to transfer their child to a different public school than the one they are assigned should contact their local school district to see if this is an option. In some cases, the state provides transportation for students who attend a school outside their city or town. 

The transfer process and timeline will vary by district. For a real-world example, check out North Providence School Department’s guidelines for transfers within the district.

The average per-pupil spending in Rhode Island is $18,366. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Rhode Island Department of Education.

South Carolina:

In South Carolina, the state allows each district to set its own open enrollment policies. South Carolina parents wanting to transfer their child to a different public school than the one they are assigned should contact their local school district to see if this is an option. As an example, Richland County School District One generally requires students to attend their zoned public school, but does allow for transfers in some cases, such as unique program offerings, childcare needs, and instances of hardship. 

In most cases, parents are in charge of transportation if they choose open enrollment in South Carolina. Also note that, in some cases in South Carolina, districts may charge transfer students fees.

The average per-pupil spending in South Carolina is $12,496. In 2023, South Carolina passed a law to make public school enrollment easier for military families. Find out more about public schools in your state at the South Carolina Department of Education.

 

South Dakota:

South Dakota has unrestricted open enrollment for public school. What this means is that you can send your child to any public school of choice in South Dakota, regardless of where you live or where the school is located. You can take advantage of this option by visiting multiple public schools near you and discovering which is the best fit for your family. 

For an example of the transfer process and timeline, check out Rapid City Area Schools’ guidelines. Generally, parents are responsible for their children’s transportation to a school they’ve selected through open enrollment, but districts can choose to cooperate to provide transportation.

The average per-pupil spending in South Dakota is $10,952. Find out more about public schools in your state at the South Dakota Department of Education.

 

Tennessee:

Tennessee has more than 1,700 public schools. In Tennessee, a 2021 bill required all school districts to offer an open enrollment period by fall 2022. This expansion of open enrollment means that parents may be able to transfer their child to any public school, regardless of where they live. If more students apply to a school than there is room for, a lottery may determine acceptance.

If you are interested in transferring public schools, contact your local school district for further guidelines.

The average per-pupil spending in Tennessee is $10,507. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Tennessee Department of Education

 

Texas:

In Texas, the state allows each district to set its own open enrollment policies. Parents wanting to transfer their child to a different public school than the one they are assigned should contact their local school district to see if this is an option. As an example, Socorro Independent School District allows families to switch schools within the district for qualifying reasons, including afterschool care needs or having a sibling at another school.

Note that if your child attends a school on the Texas Public Education Grant list of poorly-performing schools, you are automatically allowed to request a transfer. 

The average per-pupil spending in Texas is $11,005. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Texas Education Agency.

One Texas public school leader we interviewed, David Knittle of Burbank Middle School, had this to say about public school choice: “There’s one thing I always tell my kids and it’s something that I’m very passionate about. It doesn’t matter what you have, what you don’t have, the color of your skin, what language you speak, where you came from… You can be excellent. That’s what school choice for me means. That students have the opportunity, despite their circumstances on the outside, to be excellent once they walk through these doors.”

 

Utah:

Utah has unrestricted open enrollment for public school. What this means is that you can send your child to any public school in Utah, regardless of where you live or where the school is located. For a real-world example of the application process and deadlines, check out Salt Lake City School Districts’ open enrollment guidelines.

In Utah, you cannot be charged tuition for being a transfer student. Generally, parents are responsible for transportation to the public school of their choice or to a stop on the district’s bus route. In some cases, the previously assigned school will provide transportation if they are trying to relieve overcrowding.

The average per-pupil spending in Utah is $9,095. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Utah State Board of Education.

Parents, educators, and community members can find education-related data about public schools (such as student proficiency and student growth rates) at Utah State Board of Education’s Data Gateway.

 

Vermont:

Vermont has unrestricted open enrollment for public high school and transfers for younger grades are widely available as well. What this means is that you may be able to send your child to any public school in Vermont, regardless of where you live or where the school is located. Note that local boards of education may set limits on transfers based on financial impact and capacity.

The average per-pupil spending in Vermont is $23,586. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Vermont Agency of Education.

 

Virginia:

In Virginia, the state allows each district to set its own open enrollment policies. Parents wanting to transfer their child to a different public school should contact their local school district to see if this is possible. For example, Albemarle County Public Schools generally requires students to attend their zoned school, but does allow transfers in some cases, such as for medical or emotional health, or because of a family move. In Virginia, while a transfer within your district may be possible, transfers between districts are generally not available.

The average per-pupil spending in Virginia is $13,835. You can find out more about public schools in your state at the Virginia Department of Education.

 

Washington:

Washington offers some open enrollment for public school. Based on Washington’s laws, families are able to apply for transfers within their school district. Whether families can choose to transfer between districts will depend on local policies, so check with your school district if you are interested in this option. For a real-world example, check out Lake Washington School District’s transfer forms and guidelines.

Besides traditional schools, Washington also has 14 “Skill Centers” that serve high schoolers across multiple school districts who want to gain specialized career training.

The average per-pupil spending in Washington is $15,570. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction.

 

West Virginia:

West Virginia expanded its public school open enrollment policies in 2023. Now, West Virginia county boards must establish open enrollment policies and schools cannot charge tuition for transfer students. There are just a few situations in which a transfer request may be denied, such as when there is lack of capacity in the student’s grade level, or when the student has previously been expelled.

If you would like to participate in open enrollment, contact your school district for more details. For a real-world example of an open enrollment application, check out Wayne County Schools’ transfer application form.

The average per-pupil spending in West Virginia is $13,059. Find out more about public schools in your state at the West Virginia Department of Education.

 

Wisconsin:

In Wisconsin, about 8.5% of public school students use public school open enrollment. Based on Wisconsin’s laws, a parent may be able to choose a traditional public school in another district. In some cases, families can participate in open enrollment within a district as well. For example, the School District of La Crosse has an intradistrict application form families can use to request a transfer within the district.

The application window for public school transfers is usually February to April, with another window in late summer for children who have experienced bullying and children who have recently moved to Wisconsin.

Check with your local school district if you wish to participate in open enrollment. Generally, parents are responsible for transporting their child to their public school of choice. But, the school must provide it if a student has a disability. Low-income parents may apply for state reimbursement for transportation costs. Districts are allowed to collaborate to provide transportation, as well.

The average per-pupil spending in Wisconsin is $13,597. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction.

 

Wyoming:

In Wyoming, the state allows each district to set its own open enrollment policies. Parents wanting to transfer their child to a different public school than the one they are assigned should contact their local school district to see if this is an option.

As a real-world example, Natrona County Schools offers families a guide with information about curriculum and programming at different schools, and allows families to request their top choice school(s) rather than attend a zoned school. 

The average per-pupil spending in Wyoming is $18,144. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Wyoming Department of Education.

 

Washington, D.C.

The District of Columbia operates as a single school district. In D.C., families can apply to traditional public schools outside of the school assigned to them. D.C. uses a lottery system called My School DC. Families can apply to up to 12 schools out of nearly all of D.C.’s traditional public schools and public charter schools through the common lottery application. The lottery system then matches open seats with applicants. Nearly three-quarters of students in the district attend a school other than their neighborhood school.

The average per-pupil spending in D.C. is $24,535. Find out more about public schools in D.C. at the D.C. State Board of Education.

 

Shareable Facts about Public Schools of Choice

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The information in this guide to public school transfer is designed to help families who are considering public schooling in their decision-making process. Our mission is to provide families with the information they need about all the school options available – traditional public, public charter, public magnet, private, online, and at home – so they can choose the right fit for their child. Read more guides about choosing other types of schools.

Ya sea por problemas de salud u otras razones, muchos padres buscan una opción de aprendizaje que no sea en persona. Si el aprendizaje en línea o la escuela en línea K-12 son sus mejores opciones para el año escolar 2021-2022, ¡esta página es para usted! 

[bctt tweet=”¿Está pensando en cambiarse a la educación en línea? O tal vez se esté preguntando si su estado tiene una opción que le permite ir a la escuela en línea de forma gratuita. @SchoolChoiceWk creó esta guía para responder sus preguntas.” url=”https://schoolchoiceweek.com/escuelas-en-linea/” via=”no”]

Tal vez está pensando en cambiar a sus hijos a la educación en línea, pero no está seguro de cómo hacer el cambio. ¿Cómo funciona la escuela en línea? O tal vez se pregunte si su estado tiene una opción que le permita estudiar en línea de forma gratuita. Hemos creado esta guía completa de la escuela en línea responda a esas preguntas.

Aunque la pandemia ha hecho que aumente el interés por el aprendizaje en línea, las familias han estado usando programas de aprendizaje en línea durante años. El acceso a Internet ha transformado nuestra vida social y está transformando la escuela también. Es importante que los programas de aprendizaje en línea ofrezcan a los estudiantes la posibilidad de trabajar desde casa (o en cualquier lugar con Internet). Esa flexibilidad hace que se adapte bien a muchas familias.  

Como Chris McBride, superintendente de una escuela en línea en Nevada, describe, “Hay muchas razones por las que los estudiantes pueden necesitar horarios flexibles, desde cuestiones médicas hasta atletas competitivos o artistas del espectáculo. Algunas familias se inscriben en nuestra escuela porque están escapando de algunos de los problemas de intimidación y otros problemas culturales/climáticos que están presentes en las escuelas presenciales. Otras familias se inscriben porque lo ven como una excelente alternativa a la educación en casa.”

Usted habrá escuchado muchos términos como escuela en línea, aprendizaje remoto, y educación en el hogar de manera intercambiable en este momento, pero realmente son opciones escolares ¡bastante diferentes! Lea nuestra explicación de las diferencias aquí.

 

¿Te gusta lo que ves? ¡Ingrese su correo electrónico para obtener más recursos educativos gratuitos!

¿Es esta la primera vez que navega por el sistema educativo en los Estados Unidos? Si es así, es esencial saber que la educación K-12 es obligatoria, gratuita y abierta a todos los niños de este país, independientemente de los ingresos familiares, el estado migratorio o la religión. Cada familia tiene una escuela pública local asignada a la que es gratis asistir, pero en la mayoría de los lugares usted puede elegir entre otras escuelas públicas gratuitas como escuelas chárter, escuelas magnet o escuelas en línea; o seleccionar una escuela privada o educación en el hogar. Encuentre más información sobre la estructura del sistema educativo aquí y algunas preguntas frecuentes para padres migrantes de primera generación que buscan opciones de elección de escuela aquí.

Cómo cambiarse a una escuela en línea

¿Cómo funciona la escuela en línea?

En los Estados Unidos, aproximadamente 375,000 estudiantes de K-12 asistieron a una escuela en línea en el 2019. Los estudiantes de las escuelas en línea trabajan desde casa y siguen un plan de estudios establecido, enviando sus tareas a través de un portal en línea. Además, los estudiantes reciben comentarios y calificaciones de profesores acreditados que pueden comunicarse por correo electrónico, conferencia web o llamadas telefónicas.

Mientras que a los padres no se les pide que sean maestros, los programas escolares en línea suelen pedir a los padres que se involucren en la educación de sus hijos. Los padres actúan como un entrenador de aprendizaje, ayudando a su estudiante a mantenerse en el camino.

Estás mucho más en sintonía con lo que están haciendo. Ese es un beneficio que no tendrías al enviar a tu hijo a otra opción de escolarización. – Tara Boedigheimer, madre en la escuela en línea

Dos de los mayores programas escolares en línea de K-12 en este país son Connections Academy y K12 Learning. Las escuelas apoyadas por Connections Academy son escuelas públicas en línea gratuitas que actualmente están disponibles en más de 30 estados. Del mismo modo, K12 Learning ofrece escuelas públicas gratuitas en muchos estados, así como cursos independientes de pago y clases sobre carreras

Mientras que algunas escuelas virtuales son completamente en línea, otras son “escuelas mixtas”. Pero, ¿qué son las escuelas mixtas? Las escuelas mixtas son escuelas en línea que ofrecen establecimientos donde los estudiantes asisten de vez en cuando. La Academia GOAL en Colorado, por ejemplo, tiene “centros de acogida” donde los estudiantes pueden recibir clases particulares, participar en actividades o simplemente pasar tiempo con sus compañeros.

Además del aprendizaje combinado, se están desarrollando cada vez más variaciones de la educación en línea; en algunos estados, los estudiantes pueden incluso crear una “lista de reproducción” de clases entre la escuela de su vecindario y una escuela en línea. Es por eso que algunos líderes en línea dicen que el poder real del aprendizaje en línea es la personalización. El plan de estudios se puede diferenciar para satisfacer las necesidades de los estudiantes, y los estudiantes pueden ajustar el ritmo del trabajo del curso y probar el material que han dominado.

 pantalla de puntos de adulto a la computadora

Cómo hacer el cambio

Si acaba de empezar, aquí tiene los pasos que puede seguir para cambiar a la educación en línea:

1.Revise las instrucciones del estado: Primero, encuentre su estado en nuestra lista a continuación para revisar las pautas de su estado para las escuelas en línea. ¿Sabía que más de 35 estados ofrecen escuelas públicas en línea a tiempo completo de forma gratuita? En otros estados, los programas privados en línea están disponibles bajo cierto costo.

2.Contacte a la escuela que le interesa: Segundo, contacte la escuela en línea que le interese y obtenga así más detalles. Algunas pueden permitir la inscripción en cualquier momento, mientras que otras pueden tener fechas límite. Las escuelas públicas en línea deben aceptar a todos los estudiantes, sin importar su rendimiento académico o sus necesidades.

Además, los estudiantes no están obligados a tomar pruebas especiales de ingreso para inscribirse en las escuelas públicas en línea. Sin embargo, algunos estados ponen límites de asistencia o financiación, así que asegúrate de que haya disponibilidad en la escuela que elijas.

Cuando se comunique con la escuela en línea, también puede preguntar sobre las expectativas de la escuela y qué recursos necesitará en casa. Por ejemplo, ¿proporcionará la escuela una computadora para su estudiante? ¿Necesita su estudiante una cámara web? ¿Cómo es un día típico? ¿Cuánta supervisión de los padres se requiere?

3.Retírese oficialmente (si es aplicable): En muchos casos, si actualmente está inscrito en una escuela pública o privada, tendrá que enviar una carta de retirada a su distrito escolar. Es una buena idea guardar una copia de la carta, en caso de que surja alguna pregunta. Además, puede aprovechar esta oportunidad para solicitar las transcripciones de su hijo a la escuela.

Por supuesto, las directrices de su estado son lo primero. Tenga en cuenta que en algunos estados, como Missouri, West Virginia y Rhode Island los estudiantes sólo tienen acceso a las escuelas gratuitas en línea a través de su distrito de residencia. En estos casos, ya que el distrito es responsable de pagar por el acceso, las familias deben permanecer inscriptas en el distrito cuando se cambian a la escuela en línea.

4.Inscríbase y empiece: Ahora, inscríbase en la escuela de su elección en línea. Asóciese con su hijo para decidir cómo será su nueva rutina de aprendizaje. Por ejemplo, ¿a qué hora empezará su estudiante la escuela por la mañana? ¿Con qué frecuencia se trabajará el ejercicio y las actividades externas durante la semana?

 ipad mostrando estudiante con pañuelo amarillo

Espere una curva de aprendizaje

Si la escuela en línea es algo que usted y su estudiante deciden probar, aunque sea temporalmente, es importante darse cuenta de que habrá una curva de aprendizaje. ¡No deje que eso le deprima!

“Sólo tienes que tener la mente abierta”, dijo Bryan Klochack, director de una escuela en línea en Michigan. “A menudo nos referimos a ello como beber de una boca de incendios al principio porque es muy diferente”.

Aunque la escuela en línea no es para todos los estudiantes y todas las familias, puede marcar una gran diferencia para algunos.

Como dijo Klochack, “Tener esa opción para que las familias pongan a sus hijos donde van a encontrar un gran éxito: Eso es lo que hacemos.”

 

¿Cómo Encontrar las Leyes de su Estado?

¿Qué opciones tiene para aprender en línea? Revise su guía del estado para padres, o vaya más abajo para saber si su estado ofrece escuela en línea gratuita.

En 33 estados, escuelas públicas en línea han sido establecidas por las autoridades del estado, por los distritos escolares, o escuelas chárter, lo que significa que los estudiantes pueden asistir a esas escuelas tiempo completo, sin costo de matrícula. Además, al menos en 36 estados ofrecen educación pública en línea a tiempo parcial a través del acceso a cursos, lo que permite a los estudiantes usar cursos en línea para complementar su educación con clases específicas. En muchos estados, esto es accesible, y a veces incluso gratuito, para estudiantes de escuelas privadas o educados en el hogar.

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Fuentes: Grupo de Educación Evergreen e investigación independiente por NSCW

Si bien no cada estado ofrece escuelas en línea gratuita, programas escolares en línea pagados, están disponibles en todos los 50 estados. Por ejemplo, opciones pagadas como Escuela Chárter Academia de Aprendizaje Virtual (la cual es gratuita para los residentes de New Hampshire), La Escuela Keystone, y Escuela Laurel Springs están disponibles para las familias en cualquier estado. Usted puede informarse más sobre las escuelas públicas en línea y recursos en el Aprendizaje Digital Colaborativo.

Alabama:

Alabama ofrece varias opciones gratuitas de aprendizaje y de tiempo completo en línea para estudiantes, como la Academia de Conexiones de Alabama (Alabama Connections Academy),  Academia Virtual de Alabama (Alabama Virtual Academy) Genesis Innovative School,  Alabama Destinations Career (abierta para nuevo ingreso K-10)

Para clases gratuitas tiempo parcial, ACCESS Alabama funciona como escuela virtual del estado y está diseñado para que los estudiantes de secundaria tomen cursos que puede que no estén disponibles (o que no son fáciles de programar) en sus escuelas. Los estudiantes de escuelas públicas en grados 9-12 pueden tomar clases gratis; los estudiantes de escuelas no públicas pueden tomar cursos por una tarifa. 

 

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en la escuela en línea en Alabama para 2021-2022?
Alabama Virtual Academy, Alabama Connections Academy, Alabama Destinations Career Academy y Genesis Innovative School ofrecen fechas límite de inscripción continuas.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
A partir de septiembre de 2021, Alabama Connections Academy y Alabama Destinations Career Academy tienen asientos disponibles para los grados K-12. Alabama Virtual Academy todavía está aceptando solicitudes, pero la inscripción para el décimo grado está cerrada y reabrirá el 1 de octubre para una fecha de inicio del segundo semestre.

¿Las escuelas proporcionan equipo e internet?

Alabama Virtual Academy proporciona una computadora y un estipendio de Internet si la familia cumple con los requisitos financieros y académicos. En Alabama Destinations Career Academy, los estudiantes calificados pueden recibir una computadora e impresora en préstamo. Alabama Connections Academy y Genesis Innovative School no ofrecen tecnología ni wifi.

 

Alaska:

En Alaska, estudiantes de escuela secundaria y preparatoria en ciertos distritos pueden inscribirse en cursos en línea a través de la Academia Digital de Alaska (Alaska Digital Academy) por una tarifa. Como se mencionó anteriormente, las familias de Alaska también pueden considerar programas nacionales de aprendizaje en línea, como Virtual Learning Academy Charter School, The Keystone School y Laurel Springs School, por una tarifa.

Además, Alaska tiene muchas ofertas de escuelas por correspondencia, algunas de las cuales son gratuitas, entre las que las familias pueden elegir. Por último, el programa ASD FLEX ofrece un programa gratuito de aprendizaje en el hogar completamente en línea que las familias de Anchorage pueden elegir a través de su vecindario o escuela de elección. El programa de aprendizaje virtual cuenta con maestros del Distrito Escolar de Anchorage y permite a las familias mantener una conexión con su escuela local.

 

Arizona:

Los estudiantes de Arizona pueden asistir a Arizona Virtual Academy, Arizona Connections Academy, Primavera Online School, Sequoia Choice Arizona Distance Learning o ASU Prep Digital a tiempo completo sin costo. Los estudiantes en los grados 7-12 también pueden considerar Insight Academy of Arizona o Hope High School Online, las cuales se especializan en ayudar a los estudiantes con dificultades a tener éxito. Los estudiantes en los grados K-8 también pueden considerar Leman Virtual Academy.

Para que los fondos se transfieran a una de estas escuelas, las familias que se cambian a una escuela en línea pueden necesitar iniciar el retiro de su escuela anterior. Puede obtener más información sobre la comunidad escolar en línea de su estado en AZ Parents for Education.

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en la escuela en línea en Arizona para 2021-2022?
Leman Virtual Academy y Hope High School Online se inscriben durante todo el año. Arizona Connections Academy ofrece inscripción continua, pero la inscripción se detendrá del 4 al 18 de octubre de 2021. ASU Prep Digital ofrece inscripción continua, pero el 3 de octubre es la fecha límite para tomar cursos universitarios concurrentes. En Primavera Online School, los estudiantes en los grados 11-12 aún pueden solicitar cursos de seis semanas disponibles este otoño. Para otros grados, la solicitud para el segundo semestre es el 17 de diciembre.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
En septiembre de 2021, Arizona Virtual Academy, ASU Prep Digital y Primavera Online School tienen cupos disponibles para los grados K-12. Insight Academy of Arizona y Hope High School Online tienen cupos disponibles para los grados 7-12 y Leman Virtual Academy tienen cupos disponibles para los grados K-8. En Arizona Connections Academy, los grados K-5 están limitados, pero los cupos todavía están disponibles en los grados 6-11.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
En Arizona Connections Academy, una familia puede optar por un subsidio de computadora portátil e Internet por hogar. En Arizona Virtual Academy, una familia puede recibir una computadora si califica para almuerzo gratis o reducido o si es educación especial. Un estipendio de wifi puede estar disponible al final del año escolar. En Insight Academy of Arizona, una computadora en préstamo está disponible para familias calificadas. Primavera Online School, Hope High School, ASU Prep y Leman Virtual Academy no ofrecen computadoras ni wifi.

 

Arkansas:

Arkansas ofrece varias opciones de aprendizaje en líneas gratuitas a tiempo completo para estudiantes, como la Arkansas Connections Academy y la Arkansas Virtual Academy. También hay opciones de escuelas en línea del distrito; por ejemplo, los estudiantes del distrito escolar de Siloam Springs o los estudiantes que utilizan la inscripción abierta también pueden elegir la Academia virtual de Siloam Springs.

Para tiempo parcial, Virtual Arkansas ofrece opciones en línea para cualquier estudiante de Arkansas, aunque las clases en línea para estudiantes de grados K-6 están limitadas. Los estudiantes inscritos en una escuela pública pueden tomar todas o algunas clases en línea en su Virtual Arkansas. Si bien el sitio web Virtual Arkansas enumera tarifas para cursos, el distrito escolar local paga esos, no los estudiantes o sus familiares.

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en la escuela en línea en Arkansas para 2020-2021?
Arkansas Connections Academy ofrece inscripción continua. En Arkansas Virtual Academy, los grados K-8 tienen inscripción continua. Mientras que, los grados 9-12 tienen inscripción abierta hasta octubre y nuevamente de enero a marzo.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2020-2021?
Tanto Arkansas Connections Academy como Arkansas Virtual Academy tienen asientos disponibles para los grados K-12.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
Arkansas Connections Academy ofrece asistencia tecnológica y wifi basada en los ingresos. De manera similar, en Arkansas Virtual Academy, si califica para almuerzo gratis o reducido, se le podría  proporcionar una computadora y un estipendio de wifi.

 

California:

California ofrece varias opciones de aprendizaje en línea gratuitas y de tiempo completo para los estudiantes, como California Connections Academy y California Virtual Academies. Las Escuelas Charter de California Pacific son otra opción gratuita en línea para los estudiantes de más de una docena de condados de California. Mientras tanto, Method Online School atiende a estudiantes del sur de California, y Compass Charter Schools atiende a Los Ángeles, Yolo, San Diego y las áreas circundantes.

Los estudiantes de K-12 en los condados de Ventura, San Bernardino, Kern y Orange también pueden considerar IQ Academy-Los Ángeles. Si bien gran parte del aprendizaje es facilitado por la tecnología, estos programas de aprendizaje también ofrecen viajes de campo en persona y reuniones. Los estudiantes en los grados 9-12 que necesiten apoyo académico adicional para superar obstáculos pueden considerar Insight Schools of California.

Además, algunos distritos han creado sus propias escuelas en línea, como Davis School for Independent Study. Los estudiantes del distrito o que hayan recibido una transferencia entre distritos pueden presentar una solicitud.

Usted también puede revisar en: Padres de California para la Educación Virtual Pública.

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en la escuela en línea en California para el período 2021-2022?
En IQ Academy California, la fecha límite para los grados 9-12 fue el 22 de septiembre, mientras que la fecha límite para los grados K-8 es el 2 de noviembre. Debido al gran interés, California Connections Academy cerró las inscripciones para el semestre de otoño. Las escuelas autónomas Compass y las escuelas autónomas de California Pacific ofrecen admisión continua hasta que alcancen su capacidad máxima.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
En septiembre de 2021, IQ Academy California tiene asientos disponibles para los grados K-12. Las escuelas Charter Compass y las escuelas Charter de California Pacific también tienen asientos disponibles. California Connections Academy no tiene asientos disponibles para el semestre de otoño.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
En California Connections Academy, se puede solicitar una computadora por hogar y un subsidio de Internet. En las Academias Virtuales de California, un estipendio para computadora y wifi puede estar disponible. Tanto Insight Schools of California como IQ Academy California proporcionan computadoras según la necesidad financiera.

 

Colorado:

Colorado ofrece varias opciones gratuitas de aprendizaje en línea a tiempo completo para los estudiantes, como Colorado Connections Academy, Colorado Virtual Academy y Colorado Preparatory Academy. Puede sumergirse en una lista completa de opciones en línea, algunas de las cuales son específicas del distrito y otras a nivel estatal, en el Departamento de Educación de Colorado. Los estudiantes de 6º a 12º grado interesados ​​en educación vocacional pueden desear visitar Destinations Career Academy of Colorado, que se especializa en capacitación del mundo real para carreras específicas. Los estudiantes en los grados 9-12 que necesitan apoyo académico y social adicional para sobresalir pueden considerar la escuela en línea Pikes Peak.

Además, Colorado Digital Learning Solutions ofrece cursos de medio tiempo para estudiantes de secundaria y preparatoria. Si bien Colorado Digital Learning Solutions cobra tarifas, los estudiantes que asisten a las escuelas públicas tradicionales y las escuelas charter de Colorado pueden tener sus tarifas subsidiadas. Otra opción de medio tiempo para algunos estudiantes de Colorado es My Tech High, que se asocia con Colorado Early Colleges, el distrito escolar de Vilas y el distrito escolar del condado de Kiowa RE-2 para ofrecer a los estudiantes de 5 a 18 años aprendizaje en línea.

Recientemente entrevistamos a una escuela en línea de Colorado, GOAL Academy. Esta escuela en línea tiene centros donde los estudiantes pueden trabajar y excursiones escolares frecuentes, ofreciendo a las familias una combinación única de educación virtual y en persona. Para obtener más información sobre la comunidad escolar en línea de su estado, consulte la Coalición de Familias Cyberschool en Colorado.

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en la escuela en línea en Colorado para el período 2021-2022?
Las familias pueden inscribirse en Colorado Virtual Academy de forma continua. En Connections Academy, la inscripción para el primer semestre cerró el 23 de septiembre, pero los grados K-11 pueden postularse para el segundo semestre. En Pikes Peak Online School, la inscripción finaliza a mediados de septiembre, pero ocasionalmente hay lugares disponibles para el segundo semestre.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
En septiembre de 2021, Colorado Virtual Academy tiene asientos disponibles para los grados K-12, mientras que Pikes Peak Online School tiene asientos disponibles para los grados 9-12. Colorado Connections Academy está aceptando solicitudes para el segundo semestre para los grados K-11.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
Colorado Connections Academy proporciona a los estudiantes una computadora de escritorio y un reembolso por Internet. La escuela en línea Pikes Peak proporciona computadoras en préstamo y reembolsos por servicios de Internet en casos de necesidad financiera. Los estudiantes de Destinations Career Academy pueden recibir una computadora portátil en préstamo. Colorado Virtual Academy y Colorado Preparatory Academy no ofrecen tecnología ni wifi, pero es posible que existan excepciones debido a necesidades económicas.

 

Connecticut:

Si bien la mayoría de los estados tienen programas escolares gratis en línea, Connecticut solo tiene opciones pagadas disponibles al momento, como la Escuela Secundaria en Línea de la Universidad George WashingtonLa Escuela Keystone, y la K12 Academia Internacional

Se espera que K12 lance una escuela en línea en Connecticut, pero aún no está disponible para las familias.

 

Delaware:

La mayoría de los estados tienen programas escolares en línea gratuitos, pero Delaware no tiene ninguno por el momento.

En este estado existen opciones pagadas , encuentre más información como  George Washington University Online High SchoolThe Keystone SchoolK12 International Academy.  Estas escuelas privadas en línea están disponibles para las familias en Delaware, pero no son específicas del estado.

 

Florida:

En la Florida, los distritos deben ofrecer a los estudiantes al menos una opción virtual.Florida tiene la escuela virtual más grande en la nación. Cualquier estudiante en la Florida puede tomar cursos a través de la Escuela Virtual de la Florida (Florida Virtual School), tiempo completo o parcial, libre de cargos.

Otras opciones de aprendizaje gratis en línea también están disponibles, tales como la Florida Connections Academy,  Coastal Connections Academy, Florida Cyber Academy, Digital Academy of Florida. En Septiembre de 2021, hay límites de inscripción para las escuelas virtuales administradas por el distritos en Florida.

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en una escuela en línea en Florida para el período 2021-2022?
Para la opción de tiempo completo de Florida Virtual School, la inscripción comienza el 1 de noviembre para el semestre de primavera. FLVS Flex ofrece opciones de cursos con fechas de inicio flexibles durante todo el año. La fecha límite para Florida Connections Academy y Coastal Connections Academy fue el 17 de septiembre. La fecha límite para Digital Academy of Florida fue el 20 de septiembre. Mientras tanto, Florida Cyber ​​Charter Academy acepta estudiantes hasta que se haya completado la capacidad.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
En septiembre de 2021, se han cumplido los límites de Florida Connections Academy y Florida Cyber ​​Charter Academy y todos los nuevos solicitantes se incluirán en una lista de espera. Coastal Connections Academy y Digital Academy of Florida todavía tienen asientos disponibles para los grados K-12. En Florida Virtual School, la inscripción se cerró para los estudiantes de tiempo completo durante el semestre de otoño. Los estudiantes en los grados 6-12 aún pueden inscribirse en cursos individuales a través de FLVS Flex.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
Florida Connections Academy, Coastal Connections Academy y Florida Cyber ​​Charter Academy brindan computadoras en préstamo y reembolsos por servicios de Internet en caso de dificultades financieras. Florida Virtual School y Digital Academy of Florida proporcionan computadoras en préstamo a familias elegibles.

 

Georgia:

La Georgia Virtual School ofrece cursos en línea a nivel de escuela secundaria, más algunos cursos de escuela intermedia también. Los estudiantes de escuela pública pueden inscribirse a tiempo completo o parcial sin costo. Algunos fondos estatales están disponibles para cubrir la matrícula de los estudiantes privados y la educación en el hogar por orden de llegada. También hay disponibles otras opciones de aprendizaje gratuitas a tiempo completo, como la Georgia Connections Academy y Georgia Cyber Academy.

Algunos distritos de Georgia han desarrollado escuelas en línea y las familias pueden transferirse a una de estas escuelas. Por ejemplo, el Programa Virtual del Condado de Thomas atiende a estudiantes K-12 en el condado de Thomas y los condados vecinos. Y los estudiantes en los grados 3-11 en el condado de Fulton también pueden elegir la Academia de Excelencia Virtual de Fulton.

También puede revisar: Familias para la Educación Pública Virtual en Georgia.

Debido a COVID-19, el estado ha asignado $ 1.2 millones en fondos para contratar nuevos maestros en la Escuela Virtual de Georgia y proporcionar un mayor acceso a los cursos para los grados 6-12. El estado también ha asignado $ 3 millones en fondos para aumentar la disponibilidad de wifi en vecindarios de alta necesidad y $ 1 millón para adquirir puntos de acceso de Internet personales para estudiantes.

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en la escuela en línea en Georgia para 2021-2022?
La fecha límite para inscribirse en Georgia Cyber ​​Academy fue el 29 de agosto. Si bien la inscripción del primer semestre está cerrada para Georgia Connections Academy, la inscripción del segundo semestre comienza el 10 de octubre.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
A partir de septiembre de 2021, la Escuela Virtual de Georgia está aceptando solicitudes para sus cursos de primavera de 2022. Georgia Connections Academy ha alcanzado su límite de inscripción para los grados 5, 8-9 y 11-12, pero tiene vacantes disponibles para los grados 6, 7 y 10. Georgia Cyber ​​Academy ya no acepta solicitudes para el año escolar 2021-2022. La escuela ofrece excepciones para que los hermanos y los estudiantes sin hogar se inscriban en enero.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
Georgia Connections Academy no proporciona tecnología ni wifi a los estudiantes. En Georgia Cyber ​​Academy, se proporciona una computadora, una impresora y un punto de acceso a las familias que lo solicitan y cumplen con criterios específicos.

 

Hawaii:

Los estudiantes de escuelas secundaria e intermedia matriculados en cualquier escuela pública tradicional o chárter, pueden tomar clases a través de la escuela electrónica de Hawaii. La inscripción para las clases de primavera de 2022 a través de E-School comienza el 17 de noviembre.

Además, para el año escolar 2021-2022, algunos distritos ofrecen planes de aprendizaje en línea. Puede encontrar una lista completa de estas opciones en el Departamento de Educación de Hawái.

Los padres que deseen inscribir a sus hijos en la escuela en línea a tiempo completo pueden contratar a un proveedor privado. Las opciones pagadas como la escuela secundaria en línea de la Universidad George Washington, la escuela Keystone y la Academia Internacional K12 están disponibles en cualquier estado. 

 

Idaho:

Idaho ofrece varias opciones de aprendizaje en línea, gratuitas y de tiempo completo para estudiantes en grados K-12, como la Inspire Connections Academy y la Academia Virtual de Idaho (Idaho Virtual Academy).

Los estudiantes en los grados 6-12 también pueden considerar Idaho Connects Online School, y los estudiantes en los grados 9-12 también pueden considerar Idaho Technical Career Academy, una escuela en línea de tiempo completo centrada en la preparación profesional.

Para las opciones de parte del tiempo, los estudiantes de Idaho en grados 6-12 pueden inscribirse en clases en línea a través de Idaho Digital Learning. Aprendiendo Digital en Idaho está disponible para los estudiantes en cualquier tipo de entorno educativo, público o privado. Pero los padres deben consultar con su escuela pública local o el distrito para detalles, ya que pueden aplicar tarifas.

Los estudiantes en Boise que deseen asistir a la escuela en línea en 2020-2021 también pueden postularse a la Escuela en línea de Boise, que comienza el 17 de agosto de 2020. Comuníquese con su escuela para obtener más información sobre cómo inscribirse.

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en la escuela en línea en Idaho para el período 2021-2022?
Idaho Connects Online School ofrece admisión continua, con solicitudes aceptadas en cualquier época del año. En Inspire Connections Academy, la fecha límite para inscribirse fue el 1 de octubre. En Idaho Technical Career Academy, la fecha límite para inscribirse era el 30 de agosto. En Idaho Virtual Academy, hay varias fechas límite que la escuela ofrece para inicios tardíos durante todo el año.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
En septiembre de 2021, Inspire Connections Academy tiene asientos disponibles para los grados K-12 e Idaho Connects Online tiene asientos disponibles para los grados 6-12. Idaho Virtual Academy tiene asientos disponibles y ofrece fechas de inicio mensuales en las que los estudiantes pueden inscribirse durante el año escolar. Estos se extienden hasta febrero. La Academia de Carreras Técnicas de Idaho tiene asientos disponibles para los grados 9-12.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
En Inspire Connections Academy, hay una computadora portátil y un subsidio de Internet disponibles por hogar. En Idaho Virtual Academy, una computadora portátil en préstamo está disponible para las familias elegibles. En Idaho Technical Career Academy, cada estudiante recibe una computadora e impresora en préstamo y, en algunos casos, hay subsidios disponibles para Internet. En Idaho Connects Online School, se puede solicitar una computadora.

 

Illinois: 

Los estudiantes de Illinois en grados 5-12 pueden tomar cursos adicionales en línea a través de la Escuela Virtual de Illinois. Mientras que la Escuela Virtual de Illinois cobra tarifas, algunas escuelas y distritos pagan por esas a nombre de sus estudiantes. Los estudiantes pueden registrarse a través de su escuela local o como un estudiante de educación en el hogar. 

Las opciones en línea pagadas a tiempo completo, como la escuela Universidad George Washington, la escuela Keystone y la Academia Internacional K12, están disponibles para los estudiantes de Illinois, pero no son específicas del estado.

 

Indiana:

Las opciones de aprendizaje en línea gratuitas y de tiempo completo para los estudiantes de Indiana incluyen la Indiana Connections Academy y la Indiana Digital Learning School y Phalen Virtual Leadership Academy que se lanzó en el verano de 2020. Los estudiantes en los grados 7-12 también pueden considerar Insight School of Indiana, mientras que los estudiantes en los grados 9-12 pueden considerar Indiana Connections Career Academy y Achieve Virtual.

Las familias que califican para el programa de vales del estado pueden aplicar esos vales a dos escuelas virtuales privadas recientemente acreditadas, GEO Focus Academy y Faith Prep.

Otra opción que pueden elegir los estudiantes de Indiana es IU High School, una escuela secundaria privada en línea totalmente acreditada dirigida por la Universidad de Indiana. Los estudiantes de IU High School pueden tomar cursos para complementar sus experiencias educativas en instituciones físicas, o los estudiantes pueden obtener un diploma de escuela secundaria en línea a tiempo completo. La escuela secundaria IU se fundó en 1925, por lo que ha permitido que los estudiantes obtengan un diploma de escuela secundaria a distancia durante casi un siglo.

Finalmente, algunas escuelas cubrirán los costos para que los estudiantes tomen cursos de secundaria a tiempo parcial a través de Indiana Online.

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en la escuela en línea en Indiana para el período 2021-2022?
Indiana Digital Learning School, Phalen Virtual Leadership Academy y Achieve Virtual ofrecen políticas de inscripción continua. En Indiana Connections Career Academy e Indiana Connections Academy, la inscripción para el primer semestre está cerrada, pero los grados 6-11 pueden inscribirse para el segundo semestre a partir del 13 de octubre.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
A partir de septiembre de 2021, Indiana Digital Learning School tiene vacantes disponibles para los grados K-12. Indiana Connections Academy tiene cupos disponibles para los grados 6-11, y la inscripción en los grados K-5 está sujeta a una lista de espera. Indiana Connections Career Academy tiene asientos disponibles para los grados 6-11. Insight School of Indiana tiene asientos disponibles para los grados 7-12.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
En Indiana Digital Learning School, todos los estudiantes tienen la opción de recibir una computadora; Las familias de bajos ingresos pueden solicitar un estipendio de wifi que se distribuirá a fin de año. En Indiana Connections Academy e Indiana Connections Career Academy, las familias no reciben tecnología ni wifi a menos que soliciten una exención por dificultades. Phalen Virtual Leadership Academy y Achieve Virtual no brindan tecnología ni wifi a los estudiantes. En Insight School of Indiana, los estudiantes elegibles pueden solicitar una computadora e Internet.

Iowa:

Iowa ofrece varias opciones gratuitas de aprendizaje en línea a tiempo completo para estudiantes, como Iowa Connections Academy y Iowa Virtual Academy. Para que los fondos sigan a un niño a la escuela en línea, las familias deben completar la Solicitud de Inscripción Abierta de Iowa con su distrito asignado para su aprobación; esto podría potencialmente ser denegado si se completa después del cierre del período de inscripción abierta en la primavera.

Además de estas opciones estatales, varios distritos ofrecen actualmente programas en línea. Puede encontrar una lista de estas escuelas en línea en el Departamento de Educación de Iowa.

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en la escuela en línea en Iowa para 2021-2022?
Iowa Connections Academy tiene una política de inscripción continua basada en la capacidad y la aprobación de la escuela asignada al solicitante. La fecha límite de la Academia Virtual de Iowa fue el 10 de septiembre.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
En septiembre de 2021, Iowa Connections Academy todavía tiene capacidad para los grados K-5, y la Academia Virtual de Iowa está aceptando solicitudes para los grados K-12.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
En Iowa Connections Academy, hay subsidios para computadoras e Internet disponibles para las familias elegibles. La Academia Virtual de Iowa no suele ofrecer tecnología ni wifi, pero, en función de la ayuda económica, es posible que haya disponible una computadora en préstamo.

 

Kansas:

Kansas ofrece varias opciones de aprendizaje en línea gratuitas y de tiempo completo para los estudiantes, como Kansas Virtual Academy (K-6), Kansas Connections Academy y Kansas Online Learning Program. Para los estudiantes en los grados 7-12, una opción adicional es la Insight School of Kansas, que se especializa en ayudar a los estudiantes a superar los obstáculos para el éxito académico.

El Departamento de Educación del Estado de Kansas también mantiene un directorio completo de programas escolares virtuales, que incluye muchas escuelas en línea del distrito. Puede buscar en la lista programas que permitan la transferencia de estudiantes de fuera del distrito.

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en la escuela en línea en Kansas para el período 2021-2022?
En Kansas Connections Academy, la fecha límite para inscribirse era el 3 de septiembre. La inscripción de otoño en Kansas Virtual Academy está cerrada, pero las familias pueden solicitar los espacios disponibles en la primavera. Insight School of Kansas tiene una política de inscripción continua hasta el 11 de diciembre para los grados 7-8 y hasta el 3 de septiembre para los grados 9-12. La inscripción se cerró para el semestre de otoño en el Programa de aprendizaje en línea de Kansas.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
A partir de septiembre de 2021, Kansas Virtual Academy está aceptando solicitudes de lista de espera para los grados K-6. Insight School of Kansas está aceptando solicitudes de lista de espera para los grados 7-8.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
Según la necesidad, Kansas Connections Academy, Kansas Virtual Academy, Insight School of Kansas y Kansas Online Learning Program pueden proporcionar computadoras en préstamo a los estudiantes.

                                                      

Kentucky:

Mientras que muchos estados tienen escuela virtual disponible a tiempo completo, gratuita, Kentucky no tiene todavía esa opción. Sin embargo, los cursos de tiempo parcial o de tiempo completo pueden estar disponibles a un costo a través de BAVEL, The Corbin School of Innovation o JCPS eSchool. En algunos casos, las escuelas pueden cubrir los costos de los cursos en línea de un estudiante. Más información sobre estas opciones pagas está disponible en el sitio web del Departamento de Educación de KY.

También hay algunas escuelas privadas en línea de tiempo completo que están disponibles por una tarifa en los 50 estados, como la escuela secundaria en línea de la Universidad George Washington, la Escuela Keystone y la Academia Internacional K12

Louisiana:

Los estudiantes en Louisiana de grados K-12 pueden asistir a la Louisiana Virtual Charter Academy, una escuela chárter en línea, a tiempo completo o a University View Academy Para las opciones de tiempo parcial, los proveedores en línea participan en el programa del estado Supplement Course Academy Program, el cual ofrece clases gratuitas a los estudiantes que asisten a escuelas públicas de bajo rendimiento, escuelas públicas que no ofrecen un determinado curso, o escuelas privadas en becas de oportunidad. Los estudiantes que no califican para clases gratuitas pueden tomar esos cursos por una tarifa. 

Si un estudiante desea cambiarse a una escuela en línea, su padre o tutor legal debe notificar a la escuela actualmente inscrita para poder retirarse e identificar la escuela en línea a la que se está transfiriendo.

 

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en la escuela en línea en Louisiana para 2021-2022?
La fecha límite de inscripción de otoño de Louisiana Virtual Charter Academy es a mediados de septiembre y la fecha límite de inscripción de primavera es a mediados de enero. University View Academy ofrece inscripción continua.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
En septiembre de 2021, en University View Academy, los grados 3, 8 y 12 están en la lista de espera para el año escolar 2021-2022, pero hay un número limitado de lugares en otros grados. Louisiana Virtual Charter Academy está llena.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
Louisiana Virtual Charter Academy no suele ofrecer tecnología ni wifi. Pero, según la necesidad económica, es posible que haya disponible una computadora en préstamo. En University View Academy, se proporciona una computadora portátil y se puede recibir un estipendio de Internet al finalizar el año escolar.

 

Maine:

Los estudiantes de Maine pueden asistir gratis, tiempo completo a programas escolares en línea a través de las escuelas públicas chárter en línea de la Academia de Conexiones de Maine o la Academia Virtual de Maine

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en la escuela en línea en Maine para 2021-2022?
Maine Connections Academy tiene una política de inscripción continua. La fecha límite de la Academia Virtual de Maine es el 29 de septiembre.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
En septiembre de 2021, Maine Connections Academy todavía acepta solicitudes para los grados 7-12, pero se ha alcanzado el límite, por lo que las nuevas solicitudes se colocarán en una lista de espera hasta que haya espacio disponible. La Academia Virtual de Maine tiene disponibilidad limitada para el año académico 2021-2022.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
En Maine Connections Academy, los estudiantes pueden solicitar una computadora portátil por hogar. En Maine Virtual Academy, se pueden solicitar computadoras, impresoras y subsidios de Internet.

 

Maryland:

Maryland no cuenta actualmente con un programa de aprendizaje en línea gratis y de tiempo completo, pero hay opciones con pago disponibles. Algunos de estos proveedores pagos son la escuela secundaria en línea de la Universidad George Washington, la escuela Keystone y la Academia Internacional K12.

Una opción local privada en línea que las familias de Maryland pueden elegir es Bryn Mawr Online, una escuela en línea para niñas que otorga un diploma, está acreditada por AIMS, aprobada por la NCAA y autorizada por AP. La escuela es una consecuencia de Bryn Mawr School en Baltimore, que está clasificada como la escuela preparatoria universitaria número uno en Maryland. Bryn Mawr Online actualmente está inscribiendo a estudiantes de noveno y décimo grado para una cohorte inicial para el año escolar 2022-2023.

Además, el Programa Virtual Combinado de Eastern Shore of Maryland ofrece un programa de aprendizaje combinado para estudiantes de escuelas públicas en los grados 6-12 en ciertos distritos de Maryland. Estos incluyen: condado de Caroline, condado de Cecil, condado de Dorchester, condado de Kent, condado de Queen Anne, condado de Somerset, condado de Talbot, condado de Wicomico y escuelas públicas del condado de Worcester.

 

Massachusetts:

Los estudiantes de Massachusetts pueden asistir a una de las dos escuelas virtuales públicas gratuitas, ya sea a tiempo completo o parcial, con un acuerdo del distrito escolar local. Las escuelas virtuales privadas están también disponibles. 

Además, siete escuelas en línea administradas por distritos abrieron en el otoño de 2021. En algunos casos, los estudiantes de fuera del distrito pueden usar la inscripción abierta para transferirse.

 

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en la escuela en línea en Massachusetts para el período 2021-2022?
Tanto Greenfield Commonwealth Virtual School como TEC Connections Academy ofrecen una política de inscripción continua. Las escuelas operan en una serie de períodos abiertos de solicitud hasta que se alcanza el límite de inscripción.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
En septiembre de 2021, Greenfield Commonwealth Virtual School está aceptando solicitudes para su lista de espera.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
En Greenfield Commonwealth Virtual School, hay un Chromebook disponible para todos los estudiantes inscritos y es posible que existan subsidios para Internet. En TEC Connections Academy, se puede solicitar una computadora portátil por hogar.

 

Michigan:

Michigan ofrece varias opciones de aprendizaje gratis, tiempo completo en línea para los estudiantes. Esas incluyen la Michigan Connections Academy, la Highpoint Virtual Academy of Michigan, Michigan Virtual Charter Academy, Michigan Great Lakes Virtual Academy,  Uplift MichiganMichigan Cyber AcademyWest Michigan Virtual AcademyiCademy GlobalMichigan Online SchoolMy Virtual Academy, and Michigan International Prep School. Los estudiantes en los grados 6-12 que deseen apoyo académico adicional o cursos de recuperación de créditos pueden estar interesados en considerar Insight School of Michigan.

 

Además, Michigan Virtual ofrece clases en línea a tiempo parcial para estudiantes de escuela intermedia y preparatoria; se pueden aplicar tar  yifas.

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en una escuela en línea en Michigan para el período 2021-2022?
La fecha límite de inscripción de Insight School of Michigan fue el 7 de septiembre. La fecha límite de Michigan Connections Academy fue el 6 de octubre. La fecha límite de la Michigan Great Lakes Virtual Academy fue el 29 de septiembre. Highpoint Virtual Academy of Michigan y Michigan Virtual Academy tienen fechas límite renovables.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
En Michigan Connections Academy, Michigan International Prep School, Michigan Virtual Charter Academy y Highpoint Virtual Academy of Michigan, hay asientos disponibles para los grados K-12. Insight School of Michigan tiene vacantes disponibles para los grados 9-12.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
En Michigan Connections Academy, los estudiantes pueden solicitar una computadora y un subsidio de Internet por hogar. En Highpoint Virtual Academy of Michigan, las computadoras en préstamo y los subsidios de Internet pueden estar disponibles según la necesidad financiera y la elegibilidad. Los estudiantes de Insight School of Michigan reciben una computadora e impresora. Las familias de Michigan Great Lakes Virtual Academy y Michigan Virtual Charter Academy reciben una computadora y un estipendio de Internet. Todos los estudiantes de Michigan International Prep School reciben un Chromebook emitido por la escuela en préstamo, así como un punto de acceso MiFi o un paquete básico de Internet.

 

Minnesota:

Cualquier estudiante que viva en Minnesota, incluso si tiene residencia permanente en otro lugar, puede asistir a una escuela en línea de tiempo completo sin cargo. Por ejemplo, los estudiantes pueden hacer esto a través de la Minnesota Connections Academy, la Academia Virtual de Minnesota o la IQ Academy de Minnesota, Minnesota Online High School, Tonka Online, Minnesota Virtual School for Success y Blue Sky Online. K12, el proveedor de educación en línea que impulsa a Minnesota Virtual Academy y IQ Academy of Minnesota, también ofrece Insight School of Minnesota, que se especializa en ayudar a los estudiantes con dificultades en los grados 6-12 a ponerse al día y lograr el éxito académico.

Muchos distritos de Minnesota también ofrecen escuelas en línea, como 279 Online (para estudiantes en las escuelas del área de Ossea) y New Code Academy de Bloomington. Algunos de estos, como las Escuelas Públicas de Minnesota en línea, están abiertos a estudiantes de todo el estado. Y, a partir del otoño de 2021, las familias con estudiantes en los grados K-8 también pueden elegir Cologne Academy Online, una escuela pública autónoma con un enfoque en Core Knowledge.

Hay opciones gratuitas a tiempo parcial disponibles para los estudiantes matriculados en escuelas públicas (incluidas las escuelas autónomas). Además, hay opciones pagas de medio tiempo disponibles para estudiantes de escuelas privadas. Obtenga más información sobre las opciones de aprendizaje en línea a tiempo completo y a tiempo parcial en el Departamento de Educación de Minnesota, que proporciona una lista completa de opciones en línea. Para que los fondos sigan a un estudiante que cambia a la escuela en línea, la familia debe completar un formulario de Opciones de inscripción para todo el estado.

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en la escuela en línea en Minnesota para 2021-2022?
Minnesota Connections Academy, Minnesota Virtual School for Success, Cologne Academy Online e IQ Academy of Minnesota tienen políticas de inscripción continua. La fecha límite para Insight School of Minnesota fue el 8 de septiembre. La fecha límite para la escuela secundaria Minnesota Online High School es el 8 de noviembre.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
En septiembre de 2021, IQ Academy Minnesota y Minnesota Virtual Academy tienen vacantes disponibles en los grados K-12, mientras que Insight Academy of Minnesota tiene vacantes abiertas en los grados 6-12. Minnesota Online High School tiene cupos disponibles para los grados 9-12 y Cologne Academy Online tiene cupos disponibles para los grados K-8.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
En Minnesota Connections Academy, los estudiantes de los grados K-5 deben proporcionar su propia computadora, pero los estudiantes de los grados 6-12 reciben una computadora. En Minnesota Virtual Academy, un estipendio de computadora e Internet puede estar disponible según la necesidad financiera y la elegibilidad. Cologne Academy Online y Blue Sky Online no proporcionan tecnología ni wifi. Insight School of Minnesota ofrece a los estudiantes elegibles un subsidio para computadoras e Internet. Minnesota Online High School puede proporcionar apoyo informático y de Internet en casos de dificultades económicas.

 

Mississippi:

Mississippi no ofrece escuela en línea gratis a tiempo completo. Sin embargo, los estudiantes pueden inscribirse en clases a tiempo parcial en la Escuela Pública Virtual de Mississippi, y tener sus tarifas pagadas por su distrito local. 

También hay algunas escuelas privadas que están disponibles por una tarifa en los 50 estados, como la escuela secundaria en línea de la Universidad George Washington, la Escuela Keystone y la Academia Internacional K12.  

 

Missouri:

Los estudiantes de escuela pública en Missouri tienen acceso a cursos individuales en línea o a programas en línea gratuitos a tiempo completo a través de MOCAP (Acceso a Cursos y Programa de Escuela Virtual de Missouri). Para participar, los estudiantes deben obtener la inscripción aprobada por su distrito escolar de residencia. Algunos distritos solo permiten que las clases se tomen en el campus, otros permiten el aprendizaje virtual de tiempo completo. Los estudiantes deben estar inscritos actualmente en una escuela pública de Missouri para cambiarse a MOCAP o Missouri Connections Academy.

También, cualquier estudiante de escuela privada en Missouri, desde kindergarten hasta el grado 12, puede tomar cursos en línea a través de MOCAP por una tarifa. En algunos casos, como los estudiantes que tienen ciertas afecciones médicas, se les puede eximir la matrícula.

Desafortunadamente, algunas familias que solicitan ingreso a las escuelas en línea de Missouri han experimentado retrasos administrativos o han sido cuestionadas por su distrito escolar.

 

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en la escuela en línea en Missouri para 2021-2022?
Los plazos de inscripción para MOCAP dependen de cada distrito escolar, por lo que las familias interesadas deben comunicarse con su escuela pública. Missouri Connections Academy tiene una política de inscripción continua.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
La disponibilidad de MOCAP varía según el distrito escolar.

¿Podrán las familias cambiar a mitad del año escolar, si es necesario?
En MOCAP, si una familia puede transferirse a la escuela en línea a mitad del año escolar depende de su distrito escolar. En Missouri Connections Academy, se aceptan transferencias de mitad de año siempre que no se cumpla con el límite de inscripción de la escuela.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
La disponibilidad gratuita de tecnología y wifi para los estudiantes de MOCAP depende de cada distrito escolar. Missouri Connections Academy no proporciona tecnología ni wifi a los estudiantes.

 

Montana:

Mientras que Montana no tiene actualmente una opción de aprendizaje gratuita, en línea a tiempo completo, la Academia Digital de Montana les permite a todos los estudiantes tomar clases en línea a base de tiempo parcial. Además, como se mencionó anteriormente, las familias en cualquier estado pueden escoger entre proveedores de aprendizaje en línea pagados para una opción de tiempo completo. 

Opciones pagadas como la escuela secundaria en línea de la Universidad George Washington, la escuela Keystone y la Academia Internacional K12 están disponibles en cualquier estado. 

En algunas áreas, las familias también pueden elegir una escuela en línea administrada por el distrito. Por ejemplo, el Distrito Escolar de Bozeman ha establecido una escuela secundaria en línea para los estudiantes del distrito y recientemente agregó una escuela autónoma en línea para los estudiantes en los grados K-8.

 

Nebraska:

Si bien la mayoría de los estados tienen programas públicos gratuitos en línea que las familias pueden elegir, Nebraska actualmente no tiene esa opción. Las opciones pagas como la Escuela Secundaria de la Universidad de Nebraska, en línea, pueden estar disponibles. Opciones pagadas como la escuela secundaria en línea de la Universidad George Washington, la escuela Keystone y la Academia Internacional K12 están disponibles en cualquier estado incluyendo el estado de Nebraska.  

Las familias interesadas en inscribirse en University of Nebraska High School Online pueden hacerlo en cualquier momento durante el año; no hay fecha límite para la inscripción. La escuela no proporciona a las familias tecnología ni wifi.

Además, las Escuelas Públicas de Omaha ofrecen a los estudiantes la Escuela Virtual de Omaha, un programa de aprendizaje combinado que incorpora sesiones presenciales y clases en línea en el hogar.

Nevada:

Nevada ofrece varias opciones de aprendizaje en línea gratis, a tiempo completo, tales como la Nevada Connections Academy, Nevada Learning Academy y la Nevada Virtual Academy. 

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en la escuela en línea en Nevada para 2021-2022?
Nevada Learning Academy no tiene una fecha límite establecida para la inscripción, permanece abierta a nuevos estudiantes hasta que se llenen todas las vacantes. Nevada Virtual Academy también tiene una política de inscripción continua. En Nevada Connections Academy, la fecha límite para inscribirse es el 12 de noviembre.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
En septiembre de 2021, en Nevada Learning Academy, actualmente hay cupos disponibles para los grados K-12. En Nevada Connections Academy, hay cupos disponibles solo para los grados 9-10. La Academia Virtual de Nevada tiene disponibilidad limitada para estudiantes nuevos.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
En Nevada Learning Academy, Nevada Connections Academy y Nevada Virtual Academy, algunos estudiantes son elegibles para recibir computadoras en préstamo y subsidios de Internet. En Leadership Academy of Nevada, se proporcionan computadoras a los estudiantes elegibles.

 

New Hampshire:

Los residentes de New Hampshire, de escuela secundaria y adultos, pueden tomar cursos libre de cargos, tiempo completo o parcial, en la Virtual Learning Academy Charter School. Si habrá una brecha entre la asistencia a la escuela anterior de un estudiante y su comienzo en la escuela virtual, el estudiante debe presentar un aviso de intención en su escuela pública local.

 

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en la escuela en línea en New Hampshire para el período 2021-2022?
En Virtual Learning Academy Charter, el registro continuo está disponible; puede inscribirse en cualquier momento del año.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
La Carta de la Academia Virtual de Aprendizaje no tiene un límite en la cantidad de estudiantes que inscribe.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
La Carta de la Academia Virtual de Aprendizaje no proporciona tecnología ni wifi a los estudiantes.

 

New Jersey:

Desafortunadamente, New Jersey no tiene una opción de escuela en línea gratuita a tiempo completo. Sin embargo, la Escuela Virtual de New Jersey ofrece inscripción a tiempo completo y recuperación de crédito a estudiantes en los grados 6-12 por una tarifa. La inscripción comienza el 7 de septiembre. Si los estudiantes están interesados en inscribirse a mitad de año, es posible que puedan inscribirse en cursos solo semestrales para la primavera. Los estudiantes que asisten a la Escuela Virtual de Nueva Jersey deben tener acceso a tecnología y wifi; la escuela no proporciona estos para las familias.

Opciones pagadas como la escuela secundaria en línea de la Universidad George Washington, la escuela Keystone y la Academia Internacional K12 están disponibles en cualquier estado.  

 

New Mexico:

En New Mexico hay varias opciones de aprendizaje en línea gratuitas y de tiempo completo para estudiantes, como la Academia Virtual de New Mexico (New Mexico Virtual Academy) y la Academia de Conexiones de New Mexico. Además, el Departamento de Educación Pública del estado, ofrece un programa complementario de cursos en línea. El programa estatal cobra tarifas a las escuelas que inscriben estudiantes. Algunos distritos locales absorben esos costos, mientras que otros los pasan a las familias.

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en la escuela en línea en Nuevo México para 2021-2022?
Todas las escuelas en línea de Nuevo México tienen políticas de inscripción continua: por orden de llegada.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
A partir de septiembre de 2021, New Mexico Connections Academy tiene cupos disponibles para los grados 4-11, pero el grado 12 está lleno. Pecos Cyber Academy, eCademy K8 New Mexico Destinations Career Academy todavía están aceptando solicitudes. eCademy High School está llena y solo acepta estudiantes en situaciones de emergencia.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
En New Mexico Connections Academy, las familias pueden solicitar una computadora y un subsidio de Internet por hogar. eCademy High School proporciona una computadora para los estudiantes. Destinations Career Academy ofrece una computadora y un punto de acceso wifi. eCademy K8 proporciona una computadora y un reembolso por Internet.

 

New York:

Si bien la mayoría de los estados ofrecen un programa de aprendizaje en línea gratuito y de tiempo completo, Nueva York actualmente no lo hace. Sin embargo, las opciones de pago en línea están disponibles. 

Opciones pagadas como la escuela secundaria en línea de la Universidad George Washington, la escuela Keystone y la Academia Internacional K12 están disponibles en cualquier estado.  

 

North Carolina:

En North Carolina, los estudiantes de secundaria y preparatoria pueden matricularse a tiempo completo o parcial en la North Carolina Virtual School. Los estudiantes que no estén matriculados en escuelas públicas puede ser que necesiten pagar la matrícula. También hay disponibles otras opciones de aprendizaje en línea gratuitas a tiempo completo, como la Academia Virtual de North Carolina (North Carolina Virtual Academy.) 

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en la escuela en línea en Carolina del Norte para el período 2021-2022?
En North Carolina Cyber Academy, las solicitudes para los grados 9-11 para el semestre de primavera serán aceptadas hasta el 17 de diciembre.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
En septiembre de 2021, la Academia Virtual de Carolina del Norte está llena y la inscripción está cerrada para el año escolar 2021-2022.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
La Escuela Pública Virtual de Carolina del Norte no proporciona tecnología ni wifi a los estudiantes. En North Carolina Virtual Academy, una computadora, una impresora, un software y un estipendio de Internet pueden estar disponibles según la necesidad financiera y la elegibilidad. La Academia Cibernética de Carolina del Norte ofrece un subsidio para computadoras e Internet para los estudiantes elegibles.

 

North Dakota:

Si bien actualmente no existe una opción gratuita de tiempo completo para los estudiantes de Dakota del Norte, los estudiantes de primaria y secundaria pueden inscribirse en cursos a través del North Dakota Center for Distance Education por una tarifa. Las familias pueden inscribirse en los cursos en cualquier momento del año y la mayoría de los cursos no tienen una fecha límite establecida. El Centro de Educación a Distancia de Dakota del Norte tiene disponibilidad para todos los grados para el año escolar 2021-2022, aunque algunos cursos de cada grado pueden estar completos. La escuela no ofrece tecnología gratuita y wifi a las familias, por lo que los estudiantes deben tener acceso a estos en casa.

Opciones pagadas como la escuela secundaria en línea de la Universidad George Washington, la escuela Keystone y la Academia Internacional K12 están disponibles en cualquier estado.  

Además, algunos distritos de Dakota del Norte ofrecen programas en línea, como Mandan Virtual Academy. En algunos casos, los estudiantes de fuera del distrito pueden transferirse mediante un acuerdo con el distrito de origen del estudiante.

 

Ohio:

Los estudiantes de grados desde primaria a escuela preparatoria, pueden matricularse a tiempo completo o parcial en cursos a través de la NorthWest Virtual Academy sin costo, pero deben registrarse a través de un distrito escolar. También hay otras opciones de aprendizaje disponibles en línea gratuitas a tiempo completo, como la Ohio Virtual Academy  Buckeye Online School for SuccessAlternative Education Academy, Quaker Digital Academy, y Ohio Connections AcademyTRECA Digital Academy es una opción que sirve a estudiantes en riesgo, y los estudiantes de 16 a 21 años que necesitan apoyo académico y emocional adicional pueden estar interesados en terminar la escuela secundaria Ohio Digital Learning School. 

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en una escuela en línea en Ohio para el período 2021-2022?
Ohio Connections Academy, Ohio Digital Learning School y Ohio Virtual Academy tienen inscripción continua. Los plazos de inscripción para la Escuela de Aprendizaje Digital de Ohio varían según el distrito.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
En septiembre de 2021, el límite de Ohio Connections Academy no se ha cumplido y todavía está aceptando solicitudes, al igual que la Academia de Educación Alternativa. Ohio Virtual Academy tiene vacantes para que los estudiantes se inscriban en los grados K-12. La Escuela de Aprendizaje Digital de Ohio tiene asientos disponibles para estudiantes en los grados 9-12 que tienen entre 16 y 21 años de edad.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
En Ohio Connections Academy, se proporcionará a las familias una computadora y un subsidio de Internet. En Ohio Virtual Academy, se proporcionará a las familias una computadora, una impresora, un software y un subsidio de Internet. La Escuela de Aprendizaje Digital de Ohio proporciona una computadora si el estudiante califica para almuerzo gratis o reducido. La Academia de Educación Alternativa y la Escuela en Línea para el Éxito Buckeye brindan un subsidio para computadoras e Internet para las familias elegibles. TRECA Digital Academy proporciona a los estudiantes una computadora y un iPhone, así como un reembolso por Internet o Internet. Quaker Digital Academy proporciona computadoras en préstamo a los estudiantes, así como reembolsos por Internet.

 

 

Oklahoma:

Oklahoma actualmente ofrece cinco opciones de aprendizaje en línea gratuitas, y de tiempo completo para los estudiantes: Oklahoma Virtual Charter Academy, Oklahoma Connections  Academy, Epic Charter School, Insight School of Oklahoma (grados 6-12), E-School Virtual Charter Academy y  Oklahoma Information and Technology School  Recuerde, la escuela virtual es diferente pero, para algunas familias, se convierte en el ajuste perfecto. Obtenga más información sobre todas las opciones de aprendizaje virtual de Oklahoma en la Junta de Escuelas Charter Virtuales de Oklahoma.

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en la escuela en línea en Oklahoma para el período 2021-2022?
La fecha límite para inscribirse en Oklahoma Connections Academy es el 10 de noviembre. Epic Charter School, Insight School of Oklahoma y E-School Virtual Charter Academy tienen políticas de inscripción continua. La fecha límite para inscribirse en la Escuela de Tecnología e Información de Oklahoma es el 1 de octubre.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
En septiembre de 2021, Oklahoma Virtual Charter Academy y Oklahoma Connections Academy tienen asientos disponibles en todos los grados K-12, mientras que Epic Charter School tiene disponibilidad en los grados 3-12. Insight School of Oklahoma tiene disponibilidad en los grados 6-12. Oklahoma Information and Technology School tiene disponibilidad en los grados 6-9 Oklahoma, e Insight School of Oklahoma tiene disponibilidad en los grados 6-12.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
Todas las escuelas enumeradas anteriormente proporcionan computadoras para los estudiantes elegibles. En Epic Charter School, un “fondo de aprendizaje” puede estar disponible para cubrir los gastos. En Oklahoma Information and Technology School, Insight School of Oklahoma y E-School Virtual Academy Charter, se pueden solicitar puntos de acceso wifi o reembolsos de Internet.

 

Oregon:

Oregon ofrece varias opciones de aprendizaje en línea gratuitas y de tiempo completo para estudiantes, como la Oregon Connections Academy,  Oregon Virtual Academy, Frontier Charter Academy, y Baker Web Academy. Una lista completa de las escuelas de Oregon hecha por la organización de educación en línea K12 está disponible. 

Para que los fondos sigan a un estudiante a la escuela en línea, la familia del estudiante debe enviar una carta de intención, indicando que se inscribirá en una escuela virtual. Puede obtener más información sobre la comunidad escolar en línea en Oregon Virtual Public School Alliance.

Otra opción para algunas familias de Oregon es asistir a una escuela en línea administrada por el distrito. Algunos distritos, como el distrito escolar de Beaverton, planean continuar la educación en línea como una opción después de la pandemia.

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en una escuela en línea en Oregon para el período 2021-2022?
Oregon Connections Academy tiene una política de admisión continua siempre y cuando no se haya cumplido con el límite estatal del 3% (solo hasta el tres por ciento de los estudiantes en cualquier distrito escolar público del estado pueden inscribirse en una de las escuelas virtuales de tiempo completo de Oregon). Frontier Charter Academy también ofrece inscripción continua.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
En Frontier Charter Academy, la mayoría de los grados están actualmente al límite de su capacidad, pero la escuela aún acepta solicitudes en caso de que haya espacios disponibles. A partir de septiembre de 2021, Baker Web Academy todavía acepta solicitudes para los grados K-11.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
En Oregon Connections Academy, se puede solicitar una computadora portátil y un estipendio de Internet por hogar. Oregon Virtual Academy proporciona a las familias una computadora y un estipendio dos veces al año para compensar los costos de tecnología y wifi. Baker Web Academy proporciona computadoras portátiles a los estudiantes inscritos en programas en línea.

 

Pennsylvania:

Pensilvania ofrece varias opciones de aprendizaje en línea gratuitas y de tiempo completo para estudiantes, como la PA Virtual Charter SchoolReach Cyber Charter School,  Agora Cyber Charter SchoolCommonwealth Charter Academy21st Century Cyber Charter SchoolPA Leadership Charter SchoolPA Cyber Charter School, y Insight PA Cyber Charter School.

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en una escuela en línea en Pensilvania para el período 2021-2022?
PA Virtual Charter School, Reach Cyber ​​Charter School, Insight PA Cyber ​​Charter School, 21st Century Cyber ​​Charter School y Commonwealth Charter School tienen políticas de inscripción continua.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
En septiembre de 2021, Insight PA Cyber ​​Charter School, PA Virtual Charter School, Reach Cyber ​​Charter School y Commonwealth Charter Academy tienen asientos disponibles en todos los grados.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
En PA Virtual Charter School, se proporcionará una computadora portátil, una impresora y un estipendio de Internet a los estudiantes elegibles. En Reach Cyber ​​Charter School, los estudiantes pueden solicitar una computadora y un subsidio de Internet por hogar. En Insight PA Cyber ​​Charter School, se proporciona una computadora portátil a cada familia. En Commonwealth Charter Academy, los estudiantes tienen a su disposición una computadora, una impresora y un subsidio de Internet. La escuela autónoma 21st Century proporciona computadoras a los estudiantes. En PA Leadership Charter School, cada estudiante recibe una computadora portátil, una impresora y conectividad en línea.

 

Rhode Island:

A partir del otoño de 2021, Rhode Island Connections Academy ofrecerá una opción de aprendizaje en línea gratuita y de tiempo completo para los estudiantes de Rhode Island. Los estudiantes que participan permanecen inscritos en su distrito escolar y deben tener la aprobación de su superintendente.

Opciones pagadas como la escuela secundaria en línea de la Universidad George Washington, la escuela Keystone y la Academia Internacional K12 están disponibles en cualquier estado.  

Además, en algunos distritos de Rhode Island, los estudiantes de los grados 3-12 pueden inscribirse en cursos en línea a tiempo parcial a través de su distrito escolar local. Puede comunicarse con su escuela pública local para preguntar si hay opciones en línea gratuitas o de pago disponibles en su distrito.

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en la escuela en línea en Rhode Island para 2021-2022?
Rhode Island Connections Academy ofrece una política de inscripción continua.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
A partir de septiembre de 2021, Rhode Island Connections Academy está aceptando solicitudes para todos los grados.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
Rhode Island Connections Academy solo proporciona subsidios de tecnología e Internet en caso de dificultades financieras.

 

 

South Carolina:

En Carolina del Sur ofrece varias opciones de aprendizaje en línea gratuitas y de tiempo completo para estudiantes, como la South Carolina Virtual Charter School, y la South Carolina Connections Academy, SC Wgitmore School,  South Carolina Preparatory AcademyOdyssey Online Learning, and Cyber Academy of South Carolina. Además, los estudiantes públicos, privados y educados en el hogar en los grados 7-12 en Carolina del Sur pueden inscribirse en clases en línea sin costo de matrícula a través de Virtual SC. Virtual SC recomienda tomar un máximo de cuatro clases a la vez, y no otorga diplomas.

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en la escuela en línea en Carolina del Sur para 2021-2022?
South Carolina Connections Academy, South Carolina Virtual Charter School, Odyssey Online High School y SC Whitmore School tienen políticas de inscripción continua.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
En septiembre de 2021, la escuela autónoma virtual de Carolina del Sur tiene cupos disponibles para los grados K-12. En South Carolina Connections Academy, la inscripción está limitada a 6,500 estudiantes, y se ha alcanzado el límite para los grados K, 2, 3, 4 y 5. Hay espacio limitado disponible en los grados 6-11. En Odyssey Online Learning, los estudiantes que presenten su solicitud más allá de finales de septiembre probablemente estarán en una lista de espera para el segundo semestre.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
South Carolina Connections Academy no proporciona a las familias tecnología gratuita, pero los subsidios de Internet pueden estar disponibles en caso de dificultades. La Escuela Virtual Charter de Carolina del Sur y la Escuela SC Whitmore no brindan tecnología ni wifi en la mayoría de los casos.

 

South Dakota:

Las familias de Dakota del Sur pueden obtener cursos gratuitos de aprendizaje en línea a través de Comunidad de Aprendizaje en Línea de Black Hills (Black Hills Online Learning Community), el cual se asocia con K12 y distritos escolares locales. Algunos distritos permiten que los estudiantes tomen clases en línea a tiempo completo, algunos permiten que los estudiantes tomen clases en línea a tiempo parcial y algunos no permiten el aprendizaje en línea. Los estudiantes que toman cursos en línea permanecen inscritos en su distrito de origen y siguen los procedimientos y políticas de su distrito. Por lo general, el registro solo está abierto en ciertas épocas del año y las familias deben proporcionar su propia computadora y acceso a Internet.

Además, la South Dakota’s Virtual School, junto con el Departamento de Educación del estado, ofrece una lista de proveedores aprobados para cursos de medio tiempo. Los estudiantes se coordinan y se registran a través de su distrito local para tomar estas clases en línea. Si el distrito del estudiante absorberá el costo de las clases o requerirá que el estudiante pague una tarifa varía según el distrito.

Opciones pagadas como la escuela secundaria en línea de la Universidad George Washington, la escuela Keystone y la Academia Internacional K12 están disponibles en cualquier estado.  

 

Tennessee:

Para el año escolar 2021-2022, Tennessee tiene 57 escuelas virtuales, ¡29 de las cuales son nuevas! Las escuelas virtuales en Tennessee son supervisadas por distritos escolares. Si bien algunas escuelas virtuales pueden estar abiertas solo para estudiantes del distrito, otras (como Tennessee Virtual Academy y Tennessee Connections Academy) brindan servicios a estudiantes en todo el estado.

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en escuelas en línea en Tennessee para 2021-2022?
Tennessee Connections Academy tiene una política de inscripción continua. En Tennessee Virtual Academy, la escuela permite que grupos de nuevos estudiantes comiencen durante todo el año.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
En  septiembre de 2021, Tennessee Connections Academy tiene asientos disponibles para los grados K-11. La Academia Virtual de Tennessee pronto creará una lista de espera.

En Tennessee Connections Academy, se aceptan estudiantes transferidos a mitad de año siempre que no se cumpla con el límite de inscripción de la escuela. Tennessee Virtual Academy también acepta estudiantes a mitad del año escolar; establece fechas para que diferentes cohortes de nuevos estudiantes comiencen a lo largo del año.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
Tennessee Connections Academy y Tennessee Virtual Academy no suelen ofrecer tecnología ni wifi, pero las familias pueden solicitar la tecnología según sus necesidades económicas.

 

Texas:

Texas ofrece varias opciones de aprendizaje en línea gratuitas y de tiempo para estudiantes, incluyendo la matrícula gratis, incluyendo escuela gratuita a través de la Escuela en Línea de la Red de Escuelas Virtuales de Texas (Texas Virtual School Network). Para el año escolar 2021-2022, había siete escuelas en línea de tiempo completo para elegir en la Red de escuelas virtuales de Texas. Además, los estudiantes pueden encontrar opciones de medio tiempo a través de la Red de Escuelas Virtuales de Texas.

En el caso de las escuelas charter y del distrito de Texas, la financiación estatal se ha basado históricamente en la cantidad de estudiantes físicamente presentes en las aulas, lo que ha dificultado que las escuelas financien el aprendizaje virtual. Aún así, algunos distritos escolares han desarrollado escuelas en línea, como la nueva oferta virtual de las Escuelas Públicas de Harmony. En 2021, los legisladores de Texas aprobaron un proyecto de ley de financiación para ayudar a los distritos a cubrir los costos del aprendizaje virtual. De acuerdo con la ley, las escuelas autónomas y del distrito que recibieron una C o más en las últimas calificaciones de responsabilidad pueden recibir fondos para los estudiantes inscritos en el aprendizaje remoto a tiempo completo en sus límites. En algunos casos, las opciones en línea del distrito pueden estar disponibles para estudiantes fuera del distrito a través de inscripción abierta.

 

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en la escuela en línea en Texas para 2021-2022?
La Red de Escuelas Virtuales de Texas ofrece a las familias siete opciones diferentes en línea, algunas de las cuales tienen fechas límite renovables. Las opciones en línea del distrito tienen diferentes fechas límite.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
Si es flexible en cuanto a la plataforma que elige, hay disponibilidad para este año escolar a través de la Red de Escuelas Virtuales de Texas.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
Algunas de las opciones de la Red de Escuelas Virtuales de Texas ofrecen una computadora portátil, mientras que otras no. Para las escuelas que no lo hacen, es posible que pueda solicitar una excepción basada en dificultades financieras.

 

Utah:

Todos los estudiantes de Utah, grados K-12, pueden inscribirse en cursos en línea a tiempo completo o parcial a través de la Utah Online School. Todos los cursos tienen matrícula gratis. Otras opciones de aprendizaje gratuito están disponibles, tales como la Academia de Conexiones de Utah (Utah Connections Academy) y la Academia Virtual Utah (Utah Virtual Academy). Además, My Tech High se asocia con escuelas públicas para ofrecer programas de educación a distancia a tiempo completo, personalizado, para estudiantes de  5 a 18 años. 

Mountain Heights Academy es otra opción pública en línea gratuita para estudiantes en los grados 7-12. La escuela es la primera escuela secundaria del país en crear y publicar su propio plan de estudios como un “recurso educativo abierto” disponible gratuitamente para cualquier persona.

Además, varios distritos escolares de Utah han desarrollado programas escolares en línea, algunos de los cuales pueden ser opciones incluso para estudiantes de fuera del distrito.

Padres, educadores y miembros de la comunidad pueden encontrar datos relacionados con la educación sobre todas las escuelas públicas, incluidas las escuelas públicas en línea, en Data Gateway de la Junta de Educación del Estado de Utah.

 

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en la escuela en línea en Utah para el período 2021-2022?
En Utah Online School, la fecha límite para K-5 fue el 28 de septiembre y hay inscripciones continuas para los grados 6-12. Utah Connections Academy tiene inscripción continua siempre y cuando no se haya alcanzado el límite de la escuela. My Tech High ofrece inscripción continua todos los días del año. En Mountain Heights Academy, se pueden aceptar nuevos estudiantes en los grados 6 a 10 cada nuevo trimestre (agosto, octubre, enero y marzo). Alumnos seniors (grado 12) solo son aceptados para tiempo completo en agosto. Los estudiantes de grado 11 solo se aceptan en agosto y enero.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
En septiembre de 2021, Utah Online School, Utah Connections Academy, My Tech High y Mountain Heights Academy tienen asientos disponibles en todos los grados.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
Las familias que asisten a Utah Online School pueden completar una solicitud para una computadora según sus necesidades. Las familias en los grados K-6 en Utah Connections Academy pueden solicitar un subsidio para una computadora portátil y para Internet; las familias en los grados 7-12 deben proporcionar las suyas propias. En Utah Virtual Academy, una familia puede solicitar una computadora si califica para el almuerzo gratis o reducido. En My Tech High, se puede proporcionar un subsidio tecnológico de hasta $ 300 al año.

 

Vermont:

Si bien Vermont aún no ofrece una opción de aprendizaje en línea gratuita y de tiempo completo, todos los estudiantes pueden tomar cursos de tiempo parcial a través de la Cooperativa de Aprendizaje Virtual de Vermont. Una variedad de factores determina si la escuela o los padres pagarán la matrícula. Para más información, contacte a su escuela pública local.

Opciones pagadas como la escuela secundaria en línea de la Universidad George Washington, la escuela Keystone y la Academia Internacional K12 están disponibles en cualquier estado.  

 

Virginia:

Virginia ofrece a los estudiantes la opción de aprendizaje en línea gratuito y de tiempo completo, como a través de la Virginia Virtual Academy.

Para las clases a tiempo parcial, los estudiantes de secundaria y preparatoria pueden tomar clases en línea a través de Virginia Virtual; la matrícula generalmente está cubierta por la escuela pública o privada en la que está inscrito el estudiante, o los padres si el estudiante recibe educación en el hogar. En algunas áreas, los distritos también han desarrollado sus propios programas escolares en línea.

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en la escuela en línea en Virginia para el período 2021-2022?
En agosto de 2021, Virginia Virtual Academy había alcanzado su capacidad para aceptar estudiantes para el año escolar 2021-2022.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
Virginia Virtual Academy ya no acepta solicitudes para el año académico 2021-2022.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
Virginia Virtual Academy no proporciona a las familias tecnología ni wifi.

 

Washington:

Washington ofrece varias opciones de aprendizaje en línea gratuitas y de tiempo completo para estudiantes, como la Washington Virtual Academies, Washington Connections Academy y Virtual Prep Academy of Washington. La Oficina del Superintendente de Instrucción Pública ha compilado una lista de distritos con opciones de aprendizaje en línea, algunos de los cuales pueden ofrecer cursos gratuitos. Además estudiantes en los grados 9-12 que necesitan un poco más de apoyo académico puede visitar Escuela Insight de Washington 

Para que los fondos sigan al estudiante, las familias de un niño que cambia a la escuela en línea deben obtener una autorización de transferencia de elección de su distrito escolar cada año. Para obtener más información sobre el aprendizaje en línea en Washington, también puede consultar a la Alianza para la Escuela Pública Digital – WA.

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en la escuela en línea en Washington en 2021-2022?
En Washington Connections Academy, el último día para registrarse para el semestre de otoño es el 18 de octubre. Después de eso, los estudiantes en los grados K-11 todavía pueden solicitar el segundo semestre. En Insight School of Washington, hay varias fechas de inicio de cohortes para cada trimestre. Pero, si no comienza al comienzo de un semestre, el número de cursos que se pueden tomar es limitado.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
A partir de septiembre de 2021, Washington Connections Academy, Washington Virtual Academies, Virtual Prep Academy of Washington y Insight School of Washington todavía se están inscribiendo.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
Washington Connections Academy no suele proporcionar tecnología, pero una familia puede presentar una solicitud por dificultades tecnológicas. En Insight School of Washington, las familias pueden solicitar una computadora portátil en función de sus necesidades económicas, pero no se proporciona Internet. Washington Virtual Academies no proporciona tecnología ni wifi a los estudiantes.

West Virginia:

Ya sea que su hijo quiera acelerar su aprendizaje o necesite un entorno más tranquilo en el que concentrarse, es posible que le interese probar la escuela virtual. Los estudiantes de las escuelas públicas de West Virginia pueden acceder al aprendizaje en línea a tiempo parcial o completo de forma gratuita a través de la Escuela Virtual de West Virginia. La inscripción se realiza a través del distrito escolar local del estudiante, que puede establecer pautas y determinar la cantidad de cursos que un estudiante puede tomar. Los estudiantes de escuelas privadas y los estudiantes de educacion desde casa pueden acceder a los cursos virtuales inscribiéndose como estudiantes a tiempo parcial en su escuela local. Se aplican tarifas para los cursos en línea de verano y en algunos otros casos.

En algunos casos, los distritos han desarrollado sus propias ofertas virtuales. La guía de recuperación escolar del Departamento de Educación de West Virginia para el año escolar 2021-2022 dice que la escuela virtual debería estar disponible, al menos para los grados 6-12.

Opciones pagadas como la escuela secundaria en línea de la Universidad George Washington, la escuela Keystone y la Academia Internacional K12 están disponibles en cualquier estado.  

 

Wisconsin:

En Wisconsin, los estudiantes pueden acceder a varios programas escolares gratuitos y de tiempo completo en línea. Éstos incluyen la Wisconsin Connections Academy, Wisconsin Virtual Learning, Wisconsin Virtual Academy.  K12, el proveedor de educación en línea que apoya la Academia Virtual de Wisconsin, también ofrece Destination Career Academy of Wisconsin, una escuela en línea basada en habilidades técnicas para estudiantes en los grados 9-12. Además, K-12 ofrece un programa para estudiantes en riesgo en los grados 9-12, llamado iFoward.

Para que los fondos sigan a un estudiante a la escuela en línea, su familia debe presentar una Solicitud alternativa a través del Departamento de Educación.

Puede encontrar una lista completa de escuelas autónomas virtuales en el Departamento de Instrucción Pública de Wisconsin.

Para las clases a tiempo parcial, los estudiantes de secundaria y preparatoria en Wisconsin pueden inscribirse en clases en línea a través de la Wisconsin Virtual  School. Los estudiantes en las escuelas públicas y privadas deben inscribirse a través de sus escuelas; los estudiantes con educación en el hogar pueden inscribirse directamente, es posible que se apliquen tarifas por lo que debe comunicarse con su escuela para obtener más información.

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en una escuela en línea en Wisconsin para el período 2021-2022?
Puede postularse a una escuela en línea en Wisconsin (como Wisconsin Virtual Academy, Wisconsin Connections Academy, Destinations Career Academy of Wisconsin o i-Forward) en diferentes épocas del año a través de las políticas de inscripción abierta del estado.

Se anima a las familias a que presenten su solicitud de febrero a abril, directamente a través del Departamento de Instrucción Pública de Wisconsin. Después de que el período de inscripción abierta haya terminado técnicamente en Wisconsin, los estudiantes interesados ​​en una escuela en línea deben presentar una solicitud a través del proceso de inscripción alternativo.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
En Wisconsin Connections Academy, los estudiantes de los grados 9-12 pueden presentar su solicitud el 13 de octubre para el segundo semestre. i-Forward está aceptando solicitudes para todos los grados a partir del 1 de octubre para el segundo trimestre.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
En Wisconsin Connections Academy, las familias en los grados K-8 pueden recibir una computadora portátil por hogar y las familias en los grados 9-12 pueden recibir una computadora portátil por estudiante. Los hogares también pueden solicitar un subsidio para cubrir el costo de Internet. iForward proporcionará una computadora a las familias que no la tengan y reembolsará algunos costos de Internet para las familias que califiquen. En Wisconsin Virtual Academy y Destinations Career Academy of Wisconsin, las familias no suelen contar con tecnología y wifi. Sin embargo, puede haber excepciones en casos de dificultades económicas.

 

Wyoming:

Wyoming ofrece varias opciones de aprendizaje en línea gratuitos y de tiempo completo para estudiantes, como la Wyoming Virtual Academy  Wyoming Connections Academy, Cowboy State Virtual Academy, Tech Trip Academy y Spur Virtual Academy. Además, opciones pagadas a tiempo parcial están disponibles a través de una variedad de otros proveedores.

Algunos distritos de Wyoming también han desarrollado programas escolares en línea, algunos de los cuales pueden estar abiertos a estudiantes de fuera del distrito.

¿Cuál es la fecha límite para inscribirse en la escuela en línea en Wyoming para el período 2021-2022?
La fecha límite de inscripción de Wyoming Connections Academy es el 6 de octubre para los grados 7-12 y el 6 de noviembre para los grados K-6. Cowboy State Virtual Academy tiene inscripción continua. La fecha límite de Wyoming Virtual Academy fue el 27 de septiembre.

¿Qué opciones en línea todavía tienen asientos disponibles y en qué grados para 2021-2022?
En septiembre de 2021, Wyoming Connections Academy tiene asientos disponibles para todos los grados, al igual que Wyoming Virtual Academy.

¿La escuela proporciona tecnología y wifi?
En Wyoming Connections Academy, se puede solicitar un subsidio para computadora portátil e Internet por hogar. En Tech Trip Academy, las familias pueden usar fondos de aprendizaje suplementarios para tecnología y wifi. Cowboy State Academy no proporciona tecnología ni wifi. Wyoming Virtual Academy proporciona computadoras a los estudiantes y, en algunos casos, es posible que existan subsidios para Internet.

Comparta estos datos sobre la escuela en línea

escuelas en linea infographic

Fuentes: The School Choice Roadmap, por Andrew Campanella; Snapshot 2020, por el Colaborativo de Aprendizaje Digital.

 

Escuelas en linea

 

Mitos sobre la Escuela en Línea

Debido a que los programas escolares en línea no son tan conocidos como los programas escolares tradicionales, existen algunos conceptos erróneos comunes sobre ellos. Por ejemplo, aquí hay dos mitos sobre las escuelas en línea K-12, junto con las respuestas de expertos de escuelas en línea.

 

Mito 1: La escuela en línea dificultaría que mi hijo tenga amigos.

Suzanne Sloan, directora de escuela en Academia Virtual de Virginia (VAVA) compartió una perspectiva sobre esto. “Uno de los mitos del aprendizaje virtual es que los estudiantes aprenden en casa y no tienen la oportunidad de socializar y no tienen la oportunidad de estar con otras personas”, dijo. “Nuestras familias te dirán que es el polo opuesto. Debido a que tienen la capacidad de ser flexibles con su programación, en realidad tienen más oportunidades de estar con otros estudiantes. Una de las formas en que lo hacen es a través de proyectos de servicio, que ayudan a sus comunidades individuales.” 

 

Mito 2: La escuela en línea es menos rigurosa académicamente que la escuela tradicional.

Hablamos con otro líder de la escuela en línea que tenía esto para compartir sobre el rigor del aprendizaje en línea: “Nuestro curso es muy desafiante”, dice Bryan Klochack, Director en  Academia de Conexiones de Michigan. “Cuando proporcionamos encuestas a nuestros padres sobre su felicidad con nuestro plan de estudios, y si es más o menos desafiante que su experiencia anterior, está bien en el alto porcentaje de números que [dicen] que es más desafiante.”

Continuó: “Una de las cosas por las que continuamos luchando a lo largo de los años es que cuando tomas un curso en línea, la gente lo considera un curso de recuperación de crédito que no es muy desafiante. Como una opción virtual de tiempo completo, eso no es lo que somos. No somos un programa de recuperación de crédito. Otorgamos diplomas. Se espera que cumplamos con las mismas expectativas que todos los distritos tradicionales tienen para que los estudiantes obtengan créditos y su diploma, por lo que es muy desafiante, es riguroso.”

 mamá-muestra-niños-cómo-usar-computadora

 

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La información de esta guía sobre la escuela en línea está diseñada para ayudar a las familias que están considerando la escuela en línea en su proceso de toma de decisiones. Nuestra misión es proporcionar a las familias la información que necesitan sobre todas las opciones de escuelas disponibles – públicas tradicionales, públicas chárter, públicas imán, privadas, en línea y en casa – para que puedan elegir la adecuada para su hijo. Para obtener más guías sobre la elección de otros tipos de escuelas, haga clic aquí.

The Ultimate Guide to Online School – How Does Online School Work?

Whether due to lifestyle, health concerns, or other reasons, many parents are looking for a learning option that isn’t in-person. If online learning or K-12 online school is your top choice for the 2023-2024 school year, this page is for you!

Online schools are different than emergency remote learning, or doing classes on Zoom, as your family may have experienced over the last several years. Many online schools have been around for more than a decade, and they have systems in place to make it easy for families to make the switch. 

Most online schools in America are public schools, which means they are tuition-free! If you’re wondering whether your state has an option allowing you to choose a full-time online school for free, keep reading.

What do you need to know about online school choice?

Get a quick rundown.

You may hear a lot of terms like online school, remote learning, and homeschooling thrown around interchangeably, but they’re actually quite different school choices! Read our explainer on the differences.

Why do families choose free online schooling? Internet access has transformed our shopping and social life, and it is transforming schooling as well. Importantly, online learning programs offer students the ability to work from home (or anywhere with internet). That flexibility makes for a good fit for many families.

“There are many reasons students may need flexible schedules, from medical issues to competitive athletes to performance artists. Some families enroll at our school because they are escaping some of the bullying and other cultural/climate issues that are present in brick and mortar schools. Other families enroll because they view it as an excellent alternative to home schooling.”

Chris McBride, superintendent at Nevada Virtual School
 

 

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How to Switch to Online School

Are Online Schools Free to Attend?

While there are some private online schools that charge tuition, the majority of online schools are public schools and 100% tuition-free. Some of these free online schools are public charter schools, while some are public district schools. In many cases, online schools even provide loaner computers and internet reimbursements to students.

In the U.S., approximately 375,000 K-12 students attended a free, statewide online school full-time in 2019-2020, a number that jumped to 656,000 for the 2020-2021 school year. While the numbers for 2022 and 2023 aren’t in yet, there are certainly many families choosing tuition-free online learning.

How Does Online School Work?

Online school students usually work from home and follow a set curriculum, submitting assignments through an online portal. Moreover, students receive feedback and grades from accredited teachers who may communicate through email, web conference, or phone calls. 

While parents aren’t asked to be teachers, online school programs usually ask parents to be involved in their child’s education. Parents act as learning coaches, helping their student stay on track.

“You just are so much more in tune with what they’re doing. That’s such a benefit that you wouldn’t have when sending your kid through another schooling option.”

Tara Boedigheimer, online school parent

Two of the biggest K-12 online school programs in the U.S. are Connections Academy and Stride K12. Connections Academy supported schools are tuition-free online public schools that are currently available in about 30 states. They are operated by Pearson Online & Blended Learning K-12. Similarly, Stride K12 offers tuition-free public schools in many states, as well as fee-based independent courses and career classes.  

While some virtual schools are fully online, others are “blended schools.” So, what are blended schools? Blended schools are online schools that offer on-site locations that students attend from time to time. GOAL Academy in Colorado, for instance, has “drop-in centers” where students can receive tutoring, participate in activities, or simply spend time with peers.

Besides blended learning, more and more variations of online schooling are developing  – in some states, students can even create a “playlist” of classes between their neighborhood school and an online school. This is why some online leaders say the real power of online learning is personalization. Curriculum can be differentiated to meet student needs, and students can pace coursework and test out of material they have mastered.

Making the Switch

If you’re just getting started, here are steps you can take to switch to a free online school:

1. Review state guidelines: First, find your state in our list below to review your state’s guidelines for online schools. Did you know that 36 states offer full-time public online schools for free? In other states, private online programs are available at a cost.

2. Connect: Second, reach out to the online school that interests you and get more details. Some may allow enrollment at any time, while others may have deadlines. 

Online public schools must accept all students, regardless of their academic performance or needs. Moreover, students are not required to take special entrance tests for enrollment in online public schools. However, some states place caps on attendance or funding, so make sure there is availability at the school you choose.

When you reach out to the online school, you can also ask about the school’s expectations and what resources you’ll need at home. For instance, you can ask: Will the school provide a computer for my student? Does my child need a web camera? What’s a typical day like? How many hours will my child be online each day? How much parental supervision is required?

3. Officially withdraw (if applicable): In some cases, if you’re currently enrolled in a public or private school, you’ll need to send a withdrawal letter to your school district if you’re switching to a full-time online school that isn’t district-run. It’s a good idea to keep a copy of the letter, in case any questions arise. Also, you may want to use this opportunity to request your child’s transcripts from the school.

Of course, your state’s guidelines come first. Please note that in some states, like Missouri, West Virginia, and Rhode Island, students only have access to free online schools through their resident district. In these cases, since the district is responsible for paying for access, families should remain enrolled in the district as they switch to online school.

4. Enroll and get started: Now, enroll in your online school of choice. Partner with your child to decide what your new learning routine will look like. For example, what time will your student start school in the morning? How often will exercise and outside activities be worked into the week? Does the online school have an in-person component you’ll be using, or no?

ipad showing student with yellow scarf

Expect a learning curve

If online school is something you and your student decide to try, even just temporarily, it is important to realize that there’ll be a learning curve. Don’t let that get you down!

“You just have to be open minded,” said Bryan Klochack, principal of an online school in Michigan. “We often refer to it as drinking out of a fire hydrant at the start because it is so different.”

While online school is not for every student and every family, it can make a world of a difference for some. As Klochack said, “Having that option for families to put their kids where they’re going to find great success: That’s what we’re all about.”

How to Find Out Your State’s Laws

What options do you have for online learning? Check out your state’s parent guide or scroll below to learn whether your state offers online school for free.

In 35 states and D.C., online public schools have been established by state authorities, by school districts, or charter schools, meaning students can attend these schools full-time, tuition-free for all grades K-12. In Vermont, free, full-time online public school is available for grades K-8. In Kentucky, a free, full time online public school is available for grades K-11. In addition, more than 30 states offer part-time online public schooling through course access, which allows students to use online coursework to supplement their education with specific classes. In many states, this is accessible, and sometimes even free, for private school or homeschooled students.

While not every state offers online school for free, paid online school programs are available in all 50 states. For instance, paid options such as Virtual Learning Academy Charter School (which is free to New Hampshire residents), The Keystone School, and Laurel Springs School are available to families in any state. You can learn more about public online schools and resources at the National Coalition for Public School Options and the Digital Learning Collaborative

AL AK AZ AR CA CO CT DE FL GA HI ID IL IN IA KS KY LA ME MD MA MI MN MS MO MT NE NV NH NJ NM NY NC ND OH OK OR PA RI SC SD TN TX UT VT VA WA WV WI WY DC

Free, full-time online school is available statewide for all grades
Free, full-time online school is not available statewide, but localized or paid options may be available
Free, full-time online school is available for grades K-8

Source: Digital Learning Collaborative, 2023; Independent research by NSCW 

Alabama:

Alabama offers several free, full-time online learning options for students. Statewide options include Alabama Connections Academy, Alabama Destinations Career Academy, and Alabama Virtual AcademyGenesis Innovative School is based out of the Conecuh County system but is available to students statewide. Similarly, Athens Renaissance School is a district-run option that offers a fully virtual program for students statewide, as well as a blended program for students in-district. Jefferson County Virtual Academy of Learning is also available to students statewide, but in-district students can participate in extracurriculars at their zoned school.  Alabama families willing to travel to Elmore County a few days a year for state testing can also consider The Edge Virtual School.

Depending on where you live, additional district-run options may be available to you. For example, Mobile CountyBaldwin CountyFlorence City, Huntsville County, Montgomery County, and Blount County have online offerings.

For free part-time classes, ACCESS Alabama functions as the state’s virtual school and is designed for students to take high school courses that may not be available (or easy to schedule) at their schools. Public school students in grades 7-12 can take classes for free; nonpublic school students can take courses for a fee.

As a graduation requirement, all Alabama students are required to take at least one online or technology-enhanced course.

To read more about online learning in Alabama, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

Alaska:

Alaska doesn’t offer any statewide online schools or multi-district online schools, but families can consider national online learning programs, like Virtual Learning Academy Charter SchoolThe Keystone School, and Laurel Springs School, for a fee. 

On the district level, middle- and high-school students in Ketchikan Gateway Borough School District can enroll in online courses through the Alaska Digital Academy. Plus, the ASD Virtual Program offers a free, fully online home learning program that Anchorage families can choose through their neighborhood or choice school. The virtual learning program is staffed by Anchorage School District teachers and allows families to maintain a connection to their local school. The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District also offers online options for grades 6-12, and you can always ask your district about whether an online program is available to you.

In 2022, the Alaska legislature approved a new virtual education consortium. Once established, this will provide a library of virtual classes available to Alaska students. Additionally, Alaska has many correspondence school offerings, some of which are free, that families can choose from. 

To read more about online learning in Alaska, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

Arizona:

Arizona students can choose from many free, full-time online charter schools, including the state’s single largest online program, Primavera Online School.  Other options include Arizona Virtual Academy Arizona Connections AcademyAstravo Online AcademySequoia Choice Arizona Distance Learning, and ASU Prep Digital. High schoolers can also consider Khan World School, a creative partnership between ASU Prep Digital and Khan Academy. Students in high school can also consider Insight Academy of Arizona or Hope High School Online, both of which specialize in helping struggling students succeed. Students in grades K-8 can also consider Leman Virtual Academy or Great Hearts Online, both of which have classical learning focuses.

In order for funding to transfer to one of these schools, families switching to an online school may need to initiate withdrawal from their previous school. You can learn more about the online school community in your state at AZ Parents for Education.

Besides online charter schools, there are more than 100 districts in Arizona currently offering part-time or full-time online learning! These include the Mesa Distance Learning ProgramChandler Online AcademyScottsdale Online LearningDeer Valley’s Aspire Online AcademyParadise Valley Online, and Casa Grande Union High School District Online Academy. The State Board of Education makes a complete list of district online programs and the grades they serve available to families.

To read more about online learning in Arizona, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

Arkansas:

Arkansas offers several free, full-time online learning options for students, like Arkansas Connections Academy and Arkansas Virtual Academy.  These are multi-district, fully online options. More options are launching too: Two additional statewide virtual charter schools have been approved to open, and several more are in the pipeline for approval.

For part-time classes, Virtual Arkansas offers online options for any Arkansas student, though online classes for students in grades K-6 are limited. Students enrolled in a public school can take all or some of their Virtual Arkansas classes online. While Virtual Arkansas’ website lists fees for courses, the local school district pays those, not students and their families.

There are also some district online school options, some of which allow out-of-district students to apply using open enrollment. For example, Bentonville Schools, Don Tyson School of Innovation, Ignite Digital Academy, Rogers School DistrictLittle Rock School DistrictSiloam Springs School District, and the Van Buren School District offer full-time virtual learning. Hybrid learning options include the Springdale School District’s Virtual Innovation Academy and LISA Academy Arkansas Hybrid School.

To read more about online learning in Arkansas, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

California:

California doesn’t have an official state virtual school, but there are several free, full-time online learning options for students. In California, a fully online school is only allowed to serve students in contiguous counties, not students statewide. Because of this, some education management organizations operate multiple online schools to be able to serve students from across the state. Two of the biggest of these online school “networks” are California Connections Academy and California Virtual Academies

California has more than 53 online charter schools, giving every California student a fully online option. California Pacific Charter Schools is a free online choice for students in more than a dozen California counties. Meanwhile, Method Online School serves southern California students, and Compass Charter Schools serves Los Angeles, Yolo, San Diego, and surrounding areas.

K-12 students in Ventura, San Bernardino, Kern, and Orange counties can also consider IQ Academy-Los Angeles. While much of the learning is facilitated by technology, this learning program offers in-person field trips and meet-ups as well. Students in grades 9-12 needing additional academic support to overcome obstacles may wish to consider Insight Schools of California

Additionally, some districts have created their own online schools, like Davis School for Independent Study,West Contra Costa Unified Virtual Academy, El Dorado Union High School District’s Pacific Crest Academy, Elk Grove Unified School District’s Virtual Academy, and Vista Virtual Academy. Students in the district or who have received an interdistrict transfer can apply. Los Angeles Unified School District’s Virtual Academy served nearly 18,000 students during the 2021-2022 school year. In response to the appetite for online options, the district created six new theme-based online schools for the 2022-2023 school year. Each online program has a unique focus, such as computer science or leadership and public service.

When considering your options, you may also want to keep in mind that the University of California’s Scout Program allows highschoolers to take part-time online courses and earn credit for a fee. To read more about online learning in California, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile and California Parents for Public Virtual Education.

Colorado:

Colorado offers several free, full-time online learning options for students statewide. Some of these online schools, like Colorado Virtual Academy and Astravo Online Academy, are public charter schools. Other online options are managed by traditional districts. District-run online options that serve all grades K-12 and allow enrollment across districts include Colorado Connections Academy, Colorado Preparatory Academy, Aspire Online AcademyBoulder UniversalBranson School Online, District 6 Online AcademyPeyton Online Academy, and PSD Global Academy.

There are also many online schools serving specific grades. For example, students statewide in grades 4-12 who are interested in career technical education may wish to check out Destinations Career Academy of Colorado, which specializes in real-world training for specific careers. Students in grades 9-12 who need extra academic and social support to excel may want to consider Pikes Peak Online School. Students in grades 6-12 who require face-to-face hybrid sessions may want to consider Cherry Creek Elevation.

You can dive into a full list of online options at the Colorado Department of Education. Note that some of the online options listed are available only to local students.

In addition, Colorado Digital Learning Solutions is the official state virtual school and offers part-time courses for middle-school and high-school students. While Colorado Digital Learning Solutions charges fees, students attending Colorado traditional public schools and public charter schools may have their fees subsidized. Another part-time option for some Colorado students is My Tech High, which partners with Colorado Early Colleges and the Vilas School District to offer online learning opportunities for students ages 5-18.

There are also some district online learning programs, such as St Vrain Valley Schools’ LaunchED Virtual Academy, Boulder Valley School District Online, and Jeffco Virtual Academy.

We recently interviewed a Colorado online school, GOAL Academy. This online school has drop-in centers where students can work and frequent school field trips, offering families a unique blend of virtual and in-person education. To learn more about the online school community in your state, check out the Colorado Coalition of Cyberschool Families and the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

Connecticut:

While most states have free online school programs, Connecticut only has paid options available at present, such as George Washington University Online High SchoolThe Keystone School, Excel High School, and K12 Private Academy. While the schools are available to families in Connecticut for a fee, they are not specific to the state. 

Many Connecticut districts do offer online options for credit recovery.

To read more about online learning in Connecticut, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

Delaware:

Most states have free online school programs. Delaware does not have an official state online school, but the Christina School District in New Castle County offers a fully virtual academy. Families outside of the district may be able to use open enrollment to attend the school.

Additionally, some Delaware districts offer part-time online courses, and some high schools allow students to participate in the University of Delaware’s Online High School’s dual enrollment courses.

There are also some district online learning programs, such as Christina School District’s Virtual Academy, Colonial School District’s Virtual Program, Delaware Valley Cyber Academy, Colonial Virtual Program, Brandywine Virtual Academy, and Indian River Virtual School.

Paid options are also available, such as George Washington University Online High SchoolThe Keystone SchoolExcel High School, and K12 Private Academy. These private online schools are available to families in Delaware for a fee, but they are not specific to the state.

To read more about online learning in Delaware, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

Florida:

In Florida, districts are required to offer students at least one virtual option. Florida has the largest state virtual school in the nation. Around 35,060 students participate in online learning statewide. Any Florida student can take courses through Florida Virtual School, full time or part time, free of charge.

Additionally, other free online learning options are available to all Florida students. Some of these are technically online charter schools, such as Florida Connections AcademyCoastal Connections Academy, and Florida Cyber Charter Academy. Others are statewide but managed by traditional districts, such as the Digital Academy of Florida. Keep in mind that there are currently enrollment caps for district-run virtual schools in Florida, so you may want to apply early.

There are also many district-run hybrid and part-time learning opportunities. Many districts arrange a franchise with Florida Virtual School to offer at least some online courses for students, sometimes for free and sometimes for a small fee. You can find a complete list of approved online program and course providers at the Florida Department of Education.

To read more about online learning in Florida, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

Georgia:

Georgia’s free, full-time online learning options for students statewide include Georgia Connections Academy and Georgia Cyber Academy, both of which serve all grades K-12. Students in grades 6-9 can also consider the newly-opened Destinations Career Academy of Georgia.

Georgia Virtual School is the state’s official virtual school and provides online courses at the high school level, plus a credit recovery program and some middle school courses. Public school students can enroll full-time or part-time at no cost. Some state funds are available to cover tuition for private and homeschool students on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Some districts in Georgia have developed their own online schools, and in some cases out-of-district families may be able to transfer into one of these schools. For example, Gwinnett Online CampusCobb Virtual AcademyRockdale Virtual Campus, DeKalb County’s FLEX Academy, Henry County’s Impact Academy, and Fulton Virtual serve students within their districts. Forsyth Virtual Academy is a district-run online option open to students within and outside of Forsyth County.

To read more about online learning in Georgia, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile. You can also learn more at Georgia Families for Public Virtual Education.

Hawaii:

High school and middle school students enrolled in any traditional public or charter school can take up to two online courses for free through the Hawaii Virtual Learning Network – Hawaii Online Courses (formerly known as the Hawaii E-School).

During the pandemic, some districts developed online learning plans, and some of these may still be available for the 2023-2024 school year. You can find a complete list of these options at the Hawaii State Department of Education.

Additionally, parents who would like to enroll their student in an online school full-time can hire a private provider. Paid options such as George Washington University Online High SchoolThe Keystone SchoolExcel High School, and K12 Private Academy are available in any state, including Hawaii.

Finally, there are blended learning options for Hawaii families statewide. These include Hawaii Technology Academy, which is Hawaii’s largest statewide public charter school, and Myron B. Thompson Academy, an accelerated curriculum charter school and extension of Hawaii’s Virtual Learning Network that operates through campuses on Kauai, Oahu, Maui, Hawaii-Kona, and Hawaii-Hilo.

To read more about online learning in Hawaii, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

 

Idaho:

Idaho offers several full-time, free online learning options for students statewide in grades K-12, like Inspire Connections Academy, Idaho Virtual Academy, and the college-prep-focused Gem Prep Online. Students in grades 6-12 can also consider Idaho Connects Online School, while students in grades 7-12 can consider iSucceed Virtual School or Bonneville Online High School. Students in grades K-8 can consider Idaho Home Learning Academy. Students in grades 9-12 can consider Idaho Technical Career Academy, a full-time online school focused on career readiness. Meanwhile, Kootenai Bridge Academy is an alternative online option for students ages 16-21 seeking to finish high school.

For part-time options, Idaho students may enroll in online classes through the state virtual school, Idaho Digital Learning Alliance. Idaho Digital Learning Alliance is available to students in any type of educational setting, public or private. But, parents should check with their local public school or district for details, as fees may apply.

Additionally, more than 10 Idaho school districts have established online school programs. For example, students in the Boise School District, or students with an approved open enrollment status from another district, can choose the Boise Online School.

To read more about online learning in Idaho, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

 

Illinois: 

Illinois students may be able to take supplemental online courses or a full-time online program through their local school in partnership with Illinois Virtual Schools & Academy. Some schools and districts may pay course fees on behalf of their students. 

Additionally, some individual Illinois schools, such as Naperville Community Unit School District 203, Chicago Public Schools, and Cambridge Lakes Charter School, are developing their own online or hybrid classes for area students. So, you can always ask your district if you have any choices like these.

Paid full-time online options, like George Washington University Online High SchoolThe Keystone School, Excel High School, and K12 Private Academy, are available to Illinois students, but they are not specific to the state. 

To read more about online learning in Illinois, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

 

Indiana:

Free, full-time online learning options for Indiana students include Warren Online Academy, Indiana Connections AcademyIndiana Digital Learning School, Indiana Gateway Digital AcademyPhalen Virtual Leadership Academy, Move-Up Academy, Indiana University High School, and Achieve Virtual, the only public virtual statewide K-12 school operated by a local Indiana school district. Other district online learning programs serve specific grades or local students only. Students in grades 7-12 can also consider Hoosier College and Career Academy (formerly Insight School of Indiana), while students in grades 6-12 can consider Indiana Connections Career Academy.

Families who qualify for the state’s voucher program may be able to apply those vouchers to two newly-accredited private virtual schoolsGEO Focus Academy and Faith Prep.

A local, fee-based option Indiana students can choose is IU High School, a fully accredited online private high school run by Indiana University. Students at IU High School can take courses to supplement their educational experiences in brick and mortar institutions, or students may pursue a high school diploma online full-time. IU High school was founded in 1925, so it’s been allowing students to attain a high school diploma at a distance for nearly a century! 

Finally, some schools will cover costs for students to take supplemental high school courses through Indiana Online, which partners with more than 300 schools statewide. Many families choose to use Indiana Online for summer school courses.

To read more about online learning in Indiana, including hybrid schools and single-district online offerings, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

 

Iowa:

Iowa offers several free, full-time online learning options for students, such as Iowa Connections Academy and Iowa Virtual Academy. In order for funding to follow a child to online school, families need to fill out the Iowa Open Enrollment Application with their assigned district for approval.

In addition to these statewide options, several districts currently offer online programs serving all grades K-12. You can find a full list of online school options at the Iowa Department of Education.

There are also some district online learning programs, such as Des Moines Independent Community School District Virtual Learning, Cedar Rapids Community School District Virtual Academy, Sioux City Community School District’s VIBE Academy, and Council Bluffs Community School District Virtual Academy.

High school students across the state also use online courses for credit recovery through Kirkwood Community College. Enrollment must take place through your local school. Additionally, Iowa Online AP Academy offers online Advanced Placement courses for middle and high school students who do not have access to these courses in their schools.

To read more about online learning in Iowa, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

Kansas:

If you’re considering online learning in Kansas, you’re in good company. More than 9,000 Kansas students used a part-time or full-time online option in 2023. Kansas offers many free, full-time online learning options for students across districts. These include Andover eAcademyManhattan Virtual AcademyHaven Virtual AcademyUSD 309 Central State AcademyE-School Virtual Charter AcademyMaize Virtual Preparatory SchoolKansas Connections Academy, the Lawrence Virtual School (the largest online school in the state), and Kansas Online Learning Program

There are many other options, some of which serve specific grades or regions. For example, for students in grades 7-12, an online option is the Insight School of Kansas, which specializes in helping students overcome obstacles to academic success. The Kansas State Department of Education keeps a comprehensive directory of virtual school programs, which includes many single-district online schools too. You can search the list for programs near you or programs that allow out-of-district student transfers.

To read more about online learning in Kansas, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

                                                      

Kentucky:

Kentucky currently has one free state-wide online school, Kentucky Virtual Academy, available for grades K-11. There are also part-time or full-time courses that may be available to you at a cost via Barren Academy of Virtual and Expanded Learning (BAVEL), The Corbin School of Innovation, or Jefferson County Public Schools eSchool. In some cases, schools may cover costs for a student’s online courses. More information on these paid options is available on the Kentucky Department of Education website.

There are also some district online learning programs, such as Hardin County Schools Online Academy, Success Academy’s Virtual Learning Center, Christian County Public Schools Virtual Learning Academy, Kenton County School District Virtual Learning Program, Jessamine County Virtual Learning Academy, Fleming County Performance Academy, and Bullitt Virtual Learning Academy.

Plus, there are private, full-time online schools that are available for a fee in all 50 states, such as George Washington University Online High SchoolThe Keystone School, Excel High School, and K12 Private Academy.

To read more about online learning in Kentucky, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

 

Louisiana:

Louisiana students in grades K-12 can attend Louisiana Virtual Charter Academy, or University View Academy, both online charter schools, full-time. In 2021, these schools enrolled more than 5,000 students! For part-time options, online providers participate in the state’s Supplemental Course Academy program, which offers free classes to students attending underperforming public schools, public schools that do not offer a certain course, or private schools on opportunity scholarships. Students who do not qualify for free classes can take these courses for a fee. 

If a student would like to switch to an online charter school, their parent or legal guardian must notify the currently enrolled school in order to withdraw and identify the online school they are transferring into.

There are also district-run online or hybrid schools available to some families, including St. James Parish’s Virtual AcademySt. Martin Parish’s Virtual Learning Program, the East Baton Rouge Parish’s Virtual Learning, St. Tammany Parish’s Virtual Academy, Jefferson Virtual High School, eLearning Academy, Apple Digital Academy, and Virtual Academy of Lafourche.

To read more about online learning in Louisiana, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

Maine:

Maine students can attend free, full-time online school programs through one of two online public charter schools: Maine Connections Academy or Maine Virtual Academy. Both schools have enrollment caps.

Additionally, Portland Public Schools has a Virtual Scholar program offering online and blended options. 

For highschoolers, there are a few more online options. The University of Maine at Fort Kent offers Rural U, a free, part-time early college program open to high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors, including homeschool students. The University also runs a program allowing public school students statewide to take online Advanced Placement classes for free. Finally, Maine students in grades 11-12 can take early college courses for free through University of Maine’s Academ-e.

To read more about online learning in Maine, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

 

Maryland:

Unfortunately, Maryland does not currently have its own free, full-time online learning program available to students statewide. But, there are paid, full-time online school options available to families in all 50 states, Maryland included. Some of these paid providers are George Washington University Online High SchoolThe Keystone School, Excel High School, and K12 Private Academy.

A local online option Maryland families can choose for a fee is Bryn Mawr Online, an AIMS-accredited, NCAA-approved, and AP-authorized online school for girls. The school is an outgrowth of Bryn Mawr School in Baltimore, which is ranked as the number one college prep school in Maryland.

Also worth mentioning is that students in select Maryland districts, like Baltimore City Public Schools and Montgomery County Public Schools, can access district-run online learning for free. In addition, the Eastern Shore of Maryland Blended Virtual Program offers a blended learning program to public school students in grades 6-12 in certain Maryland districts. These include: Caroline County, Cecil County,  Dorchester County, Queen Anne’s County, Somerset County, Talbot County, Wicomico County and Worcester County public schools. Finally, students in some districts can take part-time courses through their school and Maryland Virtual Learning Opportunities.

To read more about online learning in Maryland, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

Massachusetts:

Currently, students in Massachusetts may attend one of two free public virtual schools – TEC Connections Academy Commonwealth Virtual School or Greater Commonwealth Virtual School (formerly known as Greenfield Commonwealth Virtual School) – either full-time or part-time, with an agreement from their local school district. These schools are a popular choice. During fall 2021, nearly 2,000 students were on waitlists for them! 

Private virtual schools are also available. For a fee, highschoolers can consider full-time learning with Massachusetts Mayflower Academy, a private online school opening for the 2022-2023 school year.

In addition, seven district-run online schools opened in fall 2021 including Attleboro Virtual Academy, Brockton Virtual Learning Academy, Chelsea Virtual Learning Academy, Leominster Personalized Virtual Learning Academy (LPVLA), Peabody Personalized Remote Education Program (Peabody P.R.E.P.), Taunton Public Virtual Academy (TPVA), The Springfield Virtual School, and Westfield Virtual School.

You may also want to keep in mind that the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education is currently partnering with online learning non-profit VHS Learning to offer free online Advanced Placement (AP) courses to highschoolers in areas that lack access to such courses. 

To read more about online learning in Massachusetts, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

 

Michigan:

Michigan offers many opportunities for online learning. As of fall 2021, there were at least 90 full-time online options for Michigan students, some available statewide and some district specific. Free, full-time online learning options serving students in grades K-12 statewide include: Highpoint Virtual Academy of Michigan, iCademy GlobalLifeTech AcademyLighthouse Connections Academy, Michigan Connections Academy, Michigan Great Lakes Virtual Academy, Michigan International Prep SchoolMichigan Online SchoolMichigan Virtual Charter AcademyMy Virtual AcademyPrepNet Virtual Academy, Jenison International Academy, and Uplift Michigan. Students in grades 9-12 who would like extra academic support or credit recovery courses may be interested in considering Insight School of Michigan or MySchool@Kent. And students in grades 6-12 can also consider Great Lakes Learning AcademyWAY Michigan or West Michigan Virtual Academy

About half of Michigan’s school districts participate in GenNET Online Learning, which offers online courses schools may use to meet their students’ needs. Many districts also have their own online schools for resident students. There are also regional offerings, like Success Virtual Learning Centers of Michigan, which blends online learning with in-person support at learning centers throughout the state.

Giving families still more options, Michigan Virtual is the state’s official virtual school and offers part-time online classes for middle-school and high-school students; in some cases, fees may apply. You can search statewide courses through the organization’s online course catalog.

In Michigan, public school students in grades 6-12 who aren’t switching full-time to a cyber charter school may take up to two online courses per term. To read more about online learning in Michigan, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

 

Minnesota:

Minnesota has more online options than most states! Any student who lives in Minnesota, even if they have permanent residency elsewhere, can attend a full-time online school free of charge. For instance, students in any grade can do this through Minnesota Connections Academy (a charter school program and the largest online public school in the state), Minnesota Virtual Academy (which serves about 1,800 students across the state), 196Online, 279Online, SoWashCo Online, Tonka Online, Eden Prairie OnlineSaint Paul Public Schools OnlineNew Code Academy, One91 Virtual Academy5Rivers OnlineEdina Virtual Pathway, or Minnesota Public Schools Online. Some of these statewide options are charter schools, while some are district-run schools that accept out-of-district students. For a full list of statewide options serving all grades, see the Department of Education’s website.

Besides online schools serving all grades, there are additional online options for students in specific grades. For example, students in grades K-8 can choose Cologne Academy Online, a public charter school with a Core Knowledge focus. Another option is Insight School of Minnesota, which specializes in helping struggling students in grades 6-12 catch up and achieve academic success. IQ Academy of Minnesota also serves students in grades 6-12. Keep in mind that, in order for the funding to follow a student who switches to online school, the family must fill out a Statewide Enrollment Options form. 

Finally, free part-time online options are available for students enrolled in public schools (including charter schools), and paid part-time options are available for nonpublic school students.

To read more about online learning in Minnesota, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

 

Mississippi:

Mississippi does not offer a free, full-time online school. However, in some cases, students may be able to enroll in part-time classes through their school district and Mississippi Online Course Approval (MOCA). For example, students can take some MOCA-approved online classes through Booneville School District Online.

As another example of a district online program available to students, Gulfport Virtual Academy provides a K-10 virtual learning option. Students living outside of but near the Gulfport School District may be able to transfer in, but students will need to occasionally attend school in person for state assessments and labs.

Also, paid full-time online school options, such as George Washington University Online High SchoolThe Keystone School, Excel High School, and K12 Private Academy, are available to students in every state, including Mississippi. Additionally, both Mississippi State University and University of Mississippi allow highschoolers to take online courses for a fee.

To read more about online learning in Mississippi, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

 

Missouri:

Missouri public school students have access to individual online courses or free, full-time online programs primarily through MOCAP (Missouri Course Access and Virtual School Program). In order to participate, students must get enrollment approved by their resident school district. (Missouri is one of the only states with such a requirement for switching to online school.) Some districts only allow classes to be taken on campus, while others allow for full-time virtual learning, such as through Missouri Virtual Academy or Missouri Connections Academy.

Students must be currently enrolled in a Missouri public school to switch to online courses through MOCAP. Any non-public student in Missouri, from kindergarten through 12th grade, may be able to enroll through the district and take courses online through MOCAP for a fee. In some cases, such as students having certain medical conditions, the tuition can be waived.

Another virtual learning program that partners with many Missouri districts is Launch Virtual Learning. You can check Launch’s member directory to see if your child’s school partners with Launch. If so, your child may be able to enroll in Launch’s part-time or full-time online courses for free through your home district.

There are also some district online learning programs, such as R-7 Online Academy, Columbia Public Schools Virtual School, Douglas County School District’s Choice Online Learning, North Kansas City Schools’ Virtual Learning, and SLPS Virtual Learning program.

Unfortunately, some families applying to Missouri online schools have experienced administrative delays or been challenged by their school district. In response, a bill passed in summer 2022 seeks to streamline the application process and improve families’ access to virtual schooling. To read more about online learning in Missouri, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

 

Montana:

While Montana does not currently have a free, full-time online learning option, Montana Digital Academy (MTDA) allows middle and high school students to take online classes on a part-time basis through their local school. More than 4,000 Montana students took at least one online course through MTDA in 2020-2021.

Also, families in any state can choose from paid online learning providers for a full-time option. Paid online schools include George Washington University Online High SchoolThe Keystone School, Excel High School, and K12 Private Academy.

In a few areas, families can also choose a district-run online school. For example, the Bozeman School District has a hybrid school for district students, and recently announced it will enroll out of district students for 2023-2024. Another district option (this one for grades 9-12) is Missoula Online Academy.

In 2023, two bills passed expanding Montana Digital Academy’s mission and making it easier for schools offering online classes to offer those classes to out-of-district students. To read more about online learning in Montana, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

 

Nebraska:

While the majority of states have free, public online programs available to families statewide, Nebraska does not currently have that option. Families can choose a paid option: University of Nebraska High School Online. Other paid options, like George Washington University Online High SchoolThe Keystone School, Excel High School, and K12 Private Academy, are available to Nebraska families but are not state-specific. Families interested in enrolling at University of Nebraska High School Online can do so at any point during the year; there is no deadline for enrollment.  

Additionally, some districts are developing their own online programs for students. Lincoln Consolidated Schools students can choose the fully online LCS Virtual Academy. Omaha Public Schools offers local students Omaha Virtual School, a blended learning program that incorporates both in-person sessions and at-home online classes. And, Grand Island Public Schools offers elementary students a virtual option.

To read more about online learning in Nebraska, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

 

Nevada:

Nevada offers several free, full-time online learning options, some of the largest of which are Nevada Connections AcademyNevada Learning Academy, Leadership Academy of Nevada, and Nevada Virtual Academy. The Nevada Department of Education provides a complete list of distance learning options, some of which are district-specific and some of which are open to students across districts. Some of the full-time options operated by specific districts include North Star Online School in Washoe County, Pioneer Academy in Carson City, and Northeastern Nevada Virtual Academy in Elko County.

Odyssey Charter School is a hybrid option for K-12 students that may benefit from face-to-face sessions once a week.

To read more about online learning in Nevada, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

 

New Hampshire:

New Hampshire elementary, middle, and high school students can take courses free of charge, full- or part-time, at Virtual Learning Academy Charter. If there will be a gap between attendance at a student’s previous school and their start at the virtual school, the student must file a notice of intent at their local public school. Homeschoolers can take up to six credits per year through the Virtual Learning Academy Charter.

One feature that makes the Virtual Learning Academy Charter unique is that it is mastery-based: students progress based on mastery of learning content, rather than a fixed schedule.

To read more about online learning in New Hampshire, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

 

New Jersey:

Unfortunately, New Jersey does not have a free, full-time online school option. However, New Jersey Virtual School offers full-time and credit-recovery enrollment to students in grades 6-12 for a fee. Also, in 2023, New Jersey Virtual School partnered with Brookdale Community College to allow high school students to take college-level credits online. Enrollment in the virtual school typically begins in April and courses begin in September, but if students are interested in enrolling mid-year, they may be able to do so. Students attending New Jersey Virtual School must have access to technology and wifi.

Besides New Jersey Virtual School, students can also consider other paid online school options, like George Washington University Online High SchoolThe Keystone School, Excel High School, Massachusetts Mayflower Academy, and K12 Private Academy.

Another part-time course option some New Jersey families may access through their local school is VHS Learning. You can ask your school if supplementary online courses are available to you.

To read more about online learning in New Jersey, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

 

New Mexico:

In New Mexico there are several free, full-time online learning options for students, such as New Mexico Connections Academy, Pecos Cyber AcademyeCademy K8 and eCademy High School, and New Mexico Destinations Career Academy. In addition, the New Mexico Virtual Course Consortium was created to support public districts and charter schools in offering supplemental online courses. The state-run program charges fees to schools who enroll students. Some local districts absorb these costs, while some pass them along to families.

There are also local district-run online and blended programs in some places, such as Rio Rancho Cyber Academy and Taos Cyber Magnet School.

To read more about online learning in New Mexico, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

 

New York:

While most states offer a free, statewide, full-time online learning program for all grades, New York does not currently do so. However, New York City recently launched its first virtual school, A School Without Walls. This school serves ninth and tenth graders in New York City.

While New York is currently one of the most restrictive states for online schooling options, students in some districts, especially students with medical exemptions, may also be able to access remote learning programs.

Keep in mind that there are fee-based, full-time online school options that are available to students in New York and all 50 states. These include George Washington University Online High SchoolThe Keystone School, Excel High School, and K12 Private Academy.

Additionally, there are part-time online learning opportunities available in many New York schools. For example, New York City offers a digital learning program called iLearnNYC. This allows students in participating schools to take specific online courses unavailable in their brick-and-mortar school. Additionally, the New York State Education Department lists course providers that schools statewide may collaborate with to offer online courses to students.

To read more about online learning in New York, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

North Carolina:

Free, full-time online learning options available to families statewide include North Carolina Virtual Academy , North Carolina Virtual Public School, and North Carolina Cyber Academy, which serve grades K-12.

Additionally, middle school and high school students may enroll in online courses part-time via North Carolina Virtual Public School. Especially in rural districts, some students use North Carolina Virtual to take classes not offered at their local school, such as an AP class, STEM class, or alternative class. Public school students interested in attending North Carolina Virtual Public School should connect with their school’s e-learning advisor, since enrollment takes place through local schools and North Carolina Virtual Public School does not grant diplomas. Students not enrolled in public schools may be required to pay tuition. 

There are also some district-run online or blended options, such as Crossroads Flex High School, Charlotte Mecklenburg Virtual Schools, Granville Academy, Buncombe County Schools Virtual Academy, Iredell-Statesville Schools’ iACADEMY, and Guilford e-Learning. A new partnership between NC State University and North Carolina Virtual Public School has created the Virtual School Network to support and connect local traditional public schools offering virtual learning.

To read more about online learning in North Carolina, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

 

North Dakota:

While there is not currently a free full-time option for North Dakota students statewide, elementary through high school students may enroll in part-time or full-time courses through the North Dakota Center for Distance Education for a fee. Families can enroll in courses at any time throughout the year, and most courses do not have a set deadline. The Center for Distance Education offers hundreds of different courses, including Advanced Placement courses and career and technical courses. The organization  does not supply free technology and wifi to families, so students must have access to these at home.

Besides the North Dakota Center for Distance Education, students can also consider other paid online school options, like George Washington University Online High SchoolThe Keystone School, Excel High School, and K12 Private Academy.

Additionally, some North Dakota districts offer blended or online programs, such as Mandan Virtual Academy, Roughrider 9-12 Virtual Academy, Dickinson Public Schools Online Academy, Fargo Virtual Academy, and Minot Public Schools’ Virtual Academy. In some cases, out-of-district students can transfer in through an agreement with the student’s home district.

To read more about online learning in North Dakota, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

 

Ohio:

Ohio families can choose from several free, full-time online schools, or “e-schools” as they are commonly called in The Buckeye State. These include Ohio Virtual Academy,(the state’s largest online public school), Buckeye Online School for SuccessAlternative Education Academy, Quaker Digital Academy,  Greater Ohio Virtual SchoolGreat River Connections Academy, and Ohio Connections Academy and TRECA Digital Academy. Additionally, students aged 16-21 needing extra academic and emotional support to finish high school may be interested in Ohio Digital Learning School. 

You can find a complete list of Ohio’s e-schools at the Ohio Department of Education. These schools do have enrollment caps, which are adjusted annually. You can learn more about the Ohio online learning community at the Ohio e-School Families and Friends Coalition.

Finally, there are also district-run blended or completely online options, including the Cincinnati Digital Academy, Columbus City Schools’ Online Academy, Dayton Digital Academy, Cleveland metropolitan School District Virtual Academy, Toledo Public Schools’ Virtual Academy, and Middletown City Schools Virtual. Students in elementary through high school grades across more than 50 school districts in northwest Ohio may enroll full-time or part-time in courses through Northwest Ohio Virtual Academy at no cost, but they must register through their district. Plus, any student in Ohio can be enrolled in the Virtual Learning Academy or Blue Sky Virtual Academy with their district’s permission. Each district determines availability, acceptance, and logistics for their students’ courses. Reach out to your district to learn what options are open to you!

In Ohio, districts that operate an online learning school must provide all online students a computer and access to the internet at no cost. To read more about online learning in Ohio, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

 

Oklahoma:

Oklahoma currently offers seven fully online public charter schools for students:  Oklahoma Virtual Charter Academy, Oklahoma Connections AcademyEpic Charter SchoolInsight School of Oklahoma (grades 6-12), E-School Virtual Charter Academy, Dove Virtual Academy (grades 6-10), and Virtual Prep Academy (grades K-8). These schools are authorized by the Statewide Virtual Charter School Board and served over 34,000 students in 2022-2023. Additionally, a free, Catholic online school may be opening in 2024: St. Isidore of Seville Catholic Virtual School.

Certain districts offer their own online choices for local families, such as Tulsa Virtual Academy, Oklahoma City Public Schools’ Online LearningVirtual Edmond, Broken Arrow Public Schools’ Virtual Academy, Newcastle Public Schools’ Virtual Academy, and Moore Virtual Academy. Plus, part-time supplemental online courses may be available through the University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma State University.

Remember, virtual school is different and it can feel like “drinking from a fire hose” at first. But, for some families, it becomes the perfect fit. Learn more about all of Oklahoma’s online options at the Oklahoma Virtual Charter School Board and the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

Oregon:

Oregon has about a dozen online public charter schools serving families across districts in all grades K-12.  These include Clackamas Web AcademyMetro East Web AcademyOregon Charter AcademyOregon Family School, Sheridan AllPrep AcademySilvies River Charter SchoolTEACH-NWWillamette Connections AcademyOregon Connections AcademyCascade Virtual AcademyFrontier Charter Academy, and Baker Web Academy.  A full list, including virtual charters only serving specific grades or districts, is available at the Oregon Department of Education website.

In order for funding to follow a student to an online charter school, the student’s family may be required to submit a letter of intent, stating that they will be enrolling in a virtual school. You can learn more about the online school community at the Oregon Virtual Public School Alliance.

Another option for some Oregon families is to attend a district-run online school. Districts such as the Beaverton School District, the Hillsboro School DistrictBend-La-Pine Schools, the Eugene School District, and Salem-Keizer Public Schools have developed their own online programs.  

For part-time courses, students can ask their district if they can enroll in courses through Oregon Virtual Education, a statewide network that supports online learning and offers a catalog of approved courses.

To read more about online learning in Oregon, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

Pennsylvania:

If you choose online learning in Pennsylvania, you’re in good company. More than 57,000 Pennsylvania students attended a cyber charter school in 2022-2023.

Pennsylvania offers several free, full-time online learning options for students, such as PA Virtual Charter SchoolReach Cyber Charter SchoolAgora Cyber Charter SchoolCommonwealth Charter Academy,, PA Leadership Charter SchoolPA Cyber Charter SchoolCentral PA Digital Learning FoundationPA Distance Learning Charter School, and Insight PA Cyber Charter SchoolEsperanza Cyber Charter School and ASPIRA Bilingual Cyber Charter School also serve grades K-12 statewide; these two schools offer special programming for bilingual students.

Students in grades 6-12 can also consider 21st Century Cyber Charter School and students in grades 7-12 can consider Achievement House Cyber Charter School. Finally, students between the ages of 17 and 20 who are seeking to finish their high school diploma can choose Passport Academy Charter School. You can find contact information for these cyber charter options at the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

After a student has been accepted into a cyber charter school, his or her family must complete withdrawal paperwork as their assigned school to ensure that there are no gaps in enrollment and that funding follows the child.

In Pennsylvania, most statewide online school options are charter schools. But, there are also some districts that have developed online options, like the School District of Philadelphia’s Virtual AcademyPittsburgh Public Schools’ Online AcademyAllentown School District’s Virtual Campus, and Reading Virtual Academy. Contact your district to learn about any online options they may offer.

To read more about online learning in Pennsylvania, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

Rhode Island:

While most states offer free, full-time online learning, Rhode Island does not currently do so. Rhode Island Connections Academy offered a free, full-time online learning option for Rhode Island students in 2021 and 2022, but closed at the end of the 2022-2023 school year.

There are paid, full-time online learning options available to students in all 50 states, Rhode Island included. These paid options include George Washington University Online High SchoolThe Keystone School, Excel High School, and K12 Private Academy.

Plus, most Rhode Island students can enroll in part-time online courses through their local school district. You can contact your local public school to ask whether there are free or paid online options available to you. The Rhode Island Department of Education’s All Course Network is one option for taking individual online courses.

Finally, some districts offer hybrid programs, including the Village Green Virtual Public Charter High SchoolNowell Leadership Academy, Pleasant View Elementary School, Highlander Charter School, and Providence Career and Technical Academy.

To read more about online learning in Rhode Island, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

 

South Carolina:

South Carolina offers several free, full-time online learning options for students, like South Carolina Virtual Charter SchoolSouth Carolina Connections AcademySC Whitmore School, the South Carolina Preparatory AcademyOdyssey Online Learning, and Cyber Academy of South Carolina. For 2023-2024, a new virtual school is opening: Heron Virtual Academy of South Carolina, which will specialize in serving high-risk highschoolers and students with special learning needs.

In addition, public, private, and homeschooled students in grades 6-12 in South Carolina can enroll in tuition-free online classes through the state virtual school, Virtual SC. VirtualSC recommends taking a maximum of four classes at a time, and families should work with their school to arrange their schedule and sign up. Some schools partner with VirtualSC to offer a blended learning experience via Virtual Learning Labs where students take online courses in a lab setting with a course facilitator. 

Also, some South Carolina districts offer their own online programming. Examples of this include Pickens County Virtual AcademyGreenville Public Schools’ Virtual Program, and Horry County School Virtual.

To read more about online learning in South Carolina, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

 

South Dakota:

South Dakota families may be able to take free, online learning courses through their local school district if it participates in an online learning community.

The South Dakota Virtual School, in conjunction with the state Department of Education, offers a list of approved providers for online courses. Students coordinate with and register through their local district to take these online classes. Whether the student’s district will absorb the cost of the classes or will require the student to pay a fee varies by district. Some districts allow students to take online classes full-time, some allow students to take online classes part-time, and some do not allow for online learning. Students taking online courses remain enrolled in their home district and follow their district’s policies. Typically, registration is only open at certain times of the year and families must supply their own computer and internet access. 

Besides the South Dakota Virtual School offerings, a few districts may offer their own online options, like Rapid City Area Schools’ online learning program.

Finally, keep in mind that there are paid, full-time online school options that are available to students in all 50 states, South Dakota included. Some of these are George Washington University Online High SchoolThe Keystone School, Excel High School, and K12 Private Academy.

To read more about online learning in South Dakota, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

 

Tennessee:

Virtual schools in Tennessee are overseen by school districts. While some virtual schools may be open only to in-district students, others (like Tennessee Virtual Academy and Tennessee Connections Academy) serve students statewide. 

As of 2024, Tennessee has more than 50 virtual schools! Schools that are approved to serve all grades K-12 statewide include Bradley County Virtual School (currently serving grades 3-12), Greene Online Academy of Learning (currently serving grades 6-12), Maryville Virtual School (currently serving grades 2-12), Memphis Virtual School (currently serving grades 4-12), Putnam County VITAL (currently serving grades 3-12), the iLearn Institute at Lenoir City, Tennessee Online Public SchoolHawkins County Virtual AcademyPioneer Virtual Academy, and Roane County Virtual Academy.

You can find a complete list of TN’s virtual schools, both those that enroll statewide and those designed for local students, at the Tennessee Department of Education. More than 12,000 students in Tennessee used a fully online schooling option in 2022-2023.

Some superintendents say that, while their district always planned to expand to offer an online education option, the COVID-19 pandemic sped up the process. To read more about online learning in Tennessee, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

Texas:

Texas offers several free, full-time online learning options for students, including tuition-free online schooling through the Texas Virtual School Network’s Online Schools. For the 2023-2024 school year, full-time online schools to choose from in the Texas Virtual School Network include:  iUniversity PrepTexas Virtual Academy at HallsvilleTexas Connections Academy at HoustonTexas Online Preparatory SchooleSchool PrepDigital Academy of Texas, and iSchool Virtual Academy of Texas. Meanwhile, TEXAS Virtual Schools offers eSchool Prep and Lone Star Academy as statewide options.

For Texas district and charter schools, state funding has historically been based on the number of students physically present in classrooms, which has made it tough for schools to fund virtual learning. Still, some school districts and charter networks have developed online schools, such as such as Harmony Virtual Academy and South Texas ISD Virtual Academy. In 2021, Texas lawmakers passed a funding bill to help districts cover the costs of virtual learning. According to the law, district and charter schools that received a C or higher in the latest accountability ratings can receive funding for students enrolled in full-time remote learning in their boundaries. In some cases, district online options may be available to out-of-district students through open enrollment.

Students can also choose part-time options through the Texas Virtual School Network.

To read more about online learning in Texas, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

 

Utah:

All Utah students, grades K-12, can enroll full-time or part-time in online courses through Utah Online School. All courses are tuition-free. Other free online learning options are also available, such as Utah Connections Academy, Utah Virtual Academy, and Canyons Online, which provides distanced learning for students in grades 9-12. Moreover, Utah’s My Tech High partners with public schools to offer a full-time, personalized, distance education program for students ages 5 to 18.

Mountain Heights Academy is another free online public option for students in grades 7-12. The school is the first secondary school in the country to create and publicly release its own curriculum as an “open educational resource” freely available for anyone’s use. 

Additionally, a number of Utah school districts have developed their own online school programs, some of which may be options even for out-of-district students

You can also check out Utah’s Statewide Online Education Program, which allows 6th-12th grade students regularly enrolled in public, private, or homeschool to enroll in up to six online course credits per academic year. The program gathers approved online courses to make it easy for families to access courses not available at their regular school. 

Innovations Early High School is a free public competency-based hybrid option for students.

More than 30,000 students enrolled in fully online schools in Utah for fall of 2022. Parents, educators, and community members can find education-related data about all public schools, including online public schools, at Utah State Board of Education’s Data Gateway. To read more about online learning in Utah, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

Vermont:

While Vermont does not yet offer a statewide, free, full-time online learning option, some students may be able to take part-time or full-time courses through the Vermont Virtual Learning Cooperative. For the 2023-2024 school year, K-8 students enrolled in a public school can access full-time online learning through the cooperative for free. In other cases, a variety of factors determine whether the school or parent will pay tuition. For more information, contact your local public school.

There are also paid, full-time online options, such as George Washington University Online High SchoolThe Keystone School, Excel High School, and K12 Private Academy, that are available to students in any state. 

To read more about online learning in Vermont, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

 

Virginia:

Virginia students can enroll in free, full-time online learning through Virginia Virtual Academy.

Additionally, K-12 students may be able to take part-time or full-time online classes through their local school in partnership with the state’s virtual school, Virtual Virginia. Tuition is usually covered by the public or private school in which the student is enrolled, or the parents if the student is homeschooled.

In some areas, districts have also developed their own part-time or full-time online school programs. These include Prince William County Public Schools’ Virtual High SchoolFairfax County Public Schools’ Online CampusLoudoun County Public Schools’ supplemental online coursesYork County School Division’s Virtual Academy, Chesapeake Virtual Academy, and Virginia Beach City Public Schools’ Digital Campus.

Virginia students are actually required to take at least one online course or blended learning experience to graduate. To read more about online learning in Virginia, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

 

Washington:

Washington offers several free, full-time online learning options open to students statewide, like Washington Virtual Academies, Washington Connections Academy, Virtual Prep Academy of Washington, Columbia Virtual Academy and the Insight School of Washington

The Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction has compiled a complete list of the more than 100 districts that offer online learning options, either full-time or part-time. Many of these online options are multi-district, allowing students to enroll from across districts. The Office also offers a helpful Frequently Asked Questions sheet for families.

In Washington, if your child’s school district doesn’t offer online learning options, you may request a “choice transfer” into another approved online school program. Getting a choice transfer release from your school district each year allows for funding to follow your student.

To learn more about online learning in Washington, you can also check out the Digital Public School Alliance – WA and the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

 

West Virginia:

Whether your child wants to accelerate his or her learning or needs a quieter environment in which to focus, you may be interested in giving virtual school a try. In West Virginia, each district is required to offer a full-time virtual program for students in grades 6-12.

West Virginia public school students can access part-time or full-time online learning for free through the West Virginia Virtual School. Enrollment takes place through a student’s local school district, which may set guidelines and determine the number of courses a student can take. Non-public and homeschool students can access the virtual courses by enrolling as a part-time student in their local school. Fees apply for summer online courses, and in some other cases.

There are also two virtual charter schools open to West Virginia students statewide. These schools are the Virtual Preparatory Academy of West Virginia and West Virginia Virtual Academy, which has a career-technical focus.

Finally, in some cases, districts have developed their own virtual offerings, like Kanawha County Schools Virtual School, Berkeley County Virtual School, or Randolph County Virtual School.

To read more about online learning in West Virginia, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

 

Wisconsin:

In Wisconsin, students can access several free, full-time online school programs. These include Wisconsin Connections Academy, Wisconsin Virtual Learning, iForward, and Wisconsin Virtual Academy. K12-Stride, the online education provider that powers Wisconsin Virtual Academy, also offers Destinations Career Academy of Wisconsin, a technical skills-based online school for students in grades 9-12.

You can find a complete list of virtual charter schools at the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. As of 2023, there were more than 20 entirely virtual charter schools serving all grades K-12. Note that in order for funding to follow a student to an online charter school, their family may be required to submit an Alternative Application through the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction.

Plus, many Wisconsin districts are developing or expanding their own blended, hybrid, or fully online options for families. The Green Bay Area Public School District, for example, has blended learning programs for all grades. Some districts, including 8 of Wisconsin’s 11 largest districts, partner with the Wisconsin e-School Network to provide their students summer school or part-time or full-time online classes.

For part-time classes, middle-school and high-school students in Wisconsin may be able to enroll through their local public or private school in the state virtual school: Wisconsin Virtual School. There may be fees attached and you should connect with your school to learn more. 

To read more about online learning in Wisconsin, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

Wyoming:

Wyoming offers several free, full-time online learning options for students across districts, like Wyoming Virtual AcademyWyoming Connections Academy, Cowboy State Virtual Academy, and Tech Trep Academy. Additionally, paid part-time options are available through a variety of providers.

Additionally, several Wyoming districts have developed local online school options, some of which may be open to out-of-district students. Many of these districts operate through Virtual 307, which provides a complete list of online programming available by grade and district.

To read more about online learning in Wyoming, check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

Washington, D.C.

Whether your child wants to accelerate learning or needs a quieter environment in which to focus, you may be interested in trying virtual school. Students in Washington D.C. in any grade can enroll full-time in Friendship Online Academy, an online, tuition-free school. Enrollment in Friendship Public Charter School Online takes place through the My School DC Public School Lottery. The school also offers part-time options.

Additionally, some D.C. high schools offer blended courses.

To read more about online learning in Washington D.C., check out the Digital Learning Collaborative’s state profile.

Myths about Online School

Because online school programs aren’t as well-known as traditional school programs, there are some common misconceptions about them. For instance, here are two myths about K-12 online schools, along with answers from online school experts.

 

Myth 1: Online school would make it too hard for my child to have friends.

Suzanne Sloan, head of school at Virginia Virtual Academy (VAVA) shared a perspective on this. “One of the myths of virtual learning is that students are at home learning and they don’t get a chance to socialize and they don’t get a chance to be with other people,” she said. “Our families will tell you that it is the polar opposite. Because they have the ability to be flexible with their scheduling, they actually have more opportunities to be with other students. One of the ways they do this is through service projects, which help their individual communities.” 

 

Myth 2: Online school is less academically rigorous than traditional schooling.

We talked with another online school leader who had this to share about the rigor of online learning: “Our coursework is very challenging,” says Bryan Klochack, Principal at Michigan Connections Academy. “When we provide surveys to our parents about their happiness with our curriculum and whether it’s more or less challenging than their previous experience, it’s well into the high percentage of numbers that [say] it’s more challenging.”

He continued, “One of the things that we continue to fight over the years is that when you take a course online, people think of it as a credit recovery course that is not very challenging. As a full-time virtual option, that’s not who we are. We’re not a credit recovery program. We award diplomas. We’re expected to meet the same expectations every traditional brick and mortar district has for students to earn credits and their diploma, so it is very challenging, it is rigorous.”

kids-study-computer

Shareable Facts about Online Schools

online learning infographic 2022

The information in this guide to online school is designed to help families who are considering online schooling in their decision-making process. Our mission is to provide families with the information they need about all the school options available – traditional public, public charter, public magnet, private, online, and at home – so they can choose the right fit for their child. Read more guides about choosing other types of schools.

National School Choice Week 2021 is Underway

Hi Friends,

On January 24, we will kick off our eleventh annual celebration of National School Choice Week. As you can imagine, this year’s celebrations will look a lot different.

Instead of in-person events, we will feature online projects and activities. We are also working harder to get information and resources to families navigating the process of choosing schools and learning environments for their children. We know that demand for school choice has reached historic highs, and we want to help moms and dads achieve success in what can often feel like an overwhelming process.

I am excited to launch National School Choice Week this year, because I know that together, we are poised to help millions of families. But I am also well aware that we are about to launch our week of celebration and awareness during a time in our history where there is intense polarization and division –– in addition to the deadly virus that has infected and claimed the lives of far too many of our fellow Americans.

To all of our participants, I ask you to use your participation in National School Choice Week to help bridge divides, start new conversations, and bring much-needed light to these times. We have always counted on our participants to “bring the happy” to the Week. This year, the stakes are higher, and the benefits of positivity are incalculable.

When we launched National School Choice Week in 2011, we endeavored to build an effort that spotlighted all types of schools equally, without criticizing or favoring any one option. We count thousands of traditional public schools, public charter schools, public magnet schools, private schools, online schools, and homeschool groups among our participants. We also pledged to be non-political, non-partisan, and relentlessly positive in our work to promote effective education options for children. I could not be prouder of those values –– and of the fact that we’ve stuck to them for more than a decade. We plan to keep sticking to those values in the years to come.

Moreover, we have always believed that school choice is not political. It is personal. School choice is not about a government entity, or an organization, or an expert declaring that one type of school works best for all kids. Instead, school choice means letting millions of moms and dads make millions of individual decisions, for their individual children, about the schools and learning environments that best meet their children’s needs.

I could not be more grateful for your participation this year, and I could not be more honored by the year-long work of our talented team in their work to adjust how we celebrate. Together, we will make a difference for millions of families. Let’s go do this!

Best,

Andrew Campanella
President
National School Choice Week

A Safe, Responsible, and Celebratory Approach to National School Choice Week 2021

Dear Participants and Supporters,

We believe that all Americans should do their part to curb the spread of COVID-19. That is why today, we are requesting that our partners and participants not plan in-person events during National School Choice Week 2021 (January 24-30). We cannot in good conscience provide support, assistance, or materials for such events in 2021.

Over the past several years, School Choice Week has grown from an effort that focuses primarily on one week of events, to a year-round effort that also provides trusted, practical information for parents who seek to choose education options that meet their children’s needs. This year, we intend to scale up these efforts even more, as an unprecedented number of parents across the country seek answers and flexibility in their children’s education. This is a tremendous national need that must be met, and our team will do everything we can to help meet it.

In addition, we encourage the schools, homeschool groups, organizations, and individuals who usually hold events during National School Choice Week to continue to use their resourcefulness and creativity to raise awareness about school choice in new ways. The possibilities are practically endless, from student art competitions, online information sessions, virtual movie nights, school and home decoration, and car parades. In fact, our team is excited to provide schools and organizations with free activity kits to help bring these ideas to life, and we will be rolling out a variety of project ideas and inspiration in the months to come.

This unique time in our country requires us all to work hard at working together and helping families and schools that are struggling. Together, we will continue to shine a spotlight on effective education options for every child by developing practical resources about K-12 education for families, spotlighting exceptional educators, assisting parents as they navigate remote learning, and supporting the individual talents of students.

Sincerely,

Andrew R. Campanella,
President, National School Choice Week

PRESS ASSISTANT

School Choice Event Services, LLC

 

About Us

 

School Choice Event Services, LLC is a management company that provides support in advancing the mission of National School Choice Week. National School Choice Week is an independent and nonpolitical public awareness effort. Through annual events and communications activities, we work to shine a positive spotlight on K-12 education options for families. These options include traditional public schools, public charter schools, public magnet schools, private schools, online academies, and homeschooling. School Choice Event Services is an equal opportunity employer and we celebrate diversity and inclusivity.

 

Job Description

 

Our press assistant plays a key role in helping National School Choice Week publicize the tens of thousands of events and activities planned by schools, organizations, and individuals to celebrate NSCW annually. This position is a full-time, hourly, non-exempt position, reporting to the director of communications. Our organization offers a telecommuting benefit; this position is eligible for our full-time, work-from-home policy. This position’s hours will be Monday – Friday, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm.

 

Responsibilities

  • Research school choice news and updates in all 50 states on a rolling basis
  • Monitor news for positive stories about NSCW participants
  • Create, edit, and improve media lists using Cision
  • Create, edit, and improve participant lists using Salesforce and Mailchimp
  • Publish news from and about NSCW to our website
  • Distribute press releases and advisories for celebrations of National School Choice Week
  • Scheduling calls and interviews with NSCW communications staff and participants
  • Other duties as assigned

 

Required Skills

  • Excellent writing skills, including a strong grasp of English grammar and AP style
  • Highly organized with ability to work independently and multi-task
  • Excellent computer skills with strong ability to troubleshoot technological challenges
  • Friendly and professional communication skills
  • A strong grasp of Word, Excel, Google Drive, and WordPress; knowledge of Cision, Trendkite, and Asana a plus
  • 1+ years’ experience in public relations a plus

 

Benefits for Full Time Employees

  • Telecommuting on a full-time basis for eligible positions
  • Competitive rates of pay
  • 20 days (160 hours) Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • 16 paid holidays
  • Health benefit reimbursement program
  • SIMPLE IRA retirement savings plan with employer matching

Salary

$13.00 to $18.00 per hour

To Apply

 

Please send a resume, brief cover note, and your requested hourly rate of pay, via e-mail to: shelby at nscwmaindev.wpengine.com with the subject line: “Press Assistant”

To all 10.8 million people that celebrated educational opportunity during National School Choice Week 2019, thank you!

Get Ready for National School Choice Week 2019!

Are you ready to celebrate effective education options for children? With 40,549 events and activities across all 50 states, National School Choice Week 2019 (January 20-26) will be the largest celebration of opportunity in education in US history. Every child deserves a great education, and school choice is something to celebrate!

40,549 independently-planned events and activities will be held during NSCW 2019

Events and activities are planned by:

10.8M celebrated NSCW 2019
15,300 families are planning celebrations for NSCW
21,255 Schools celebrated NSCW 2019
1684 Homeschool Groups Celebrate NSCW