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Every parent wants the best education for their child. Traditional schools offer a standard program for students, but there are many alternatives for good education. Homeschooling, online schools, and K-12 private academies have a lot of benefits for children.
K-12 private academy is a private school offering education from kindergarten through 12th grade. These academies are in-person or online, so families choose what is more comfortable for them. Let’s take a closer look at what these academies are.
Why Do Parents Choose K-12 Private Academies?
About 11.2 million students were enrolled in private schools in the United States, according to Statista. K-12 private academies attract parents who want more than a standard curriculum. These academies meet the needs of children in various ways. Let’s look at five main reasons why parents choose K-12 private academies.
Class Sizes
K-12 private academies have smaller class sizes compared to public schools. Teachers have an opportunity to give more attention to each student because of the smaller class sizes. Children ask more questions and participate in discussions. The classroom stays quiet with fewer students, so there are less things to distract kids. This helps children to focus and learn more easily.
Tailored Learning
Qualified teachers in private academies create learning plans for each student. It’s easier for educators to change lessons to help with what students find hardest. Students move forward at their own speed.
Specialized Programs
Private academies have programs for students with special interests or needs. These programs focus on subjects like science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) or the arts. There are programs for gifted students in private academies. This type of learning lets students explore subjects in more detail and develop their unique talents.
Extracurricular Opportunities
Students in K-12 private academies join many extracurricular activities. These activities in private academies include sports, arts, clubs, and academic contests. The participation in the activities builds teamwork and leadership skills. Students have a chance to try new hobbies and explore their interests.
Strong Support Systems
There is strong academic and emotional support for students in private academies. Counselors and advisors help with school goals and personal issues. Parents and students have an opportunity to get private consultations from teachers and staff. This support helps students do well in school and in life.
What Are the Challenges of Studying in K-12 Private Academies?
K-12 private academies come with some challenges. Let’s know about difficulties faced in the academies.
High Costs
One of the biggest challenges of K-12 private academies is the high tuition. Families pay thousands of dollars per year for private schools. The price makes schools inaccessible for many families. Scholarships or financial aid are helpful but the cost is a significant burden. This is the main factor making private academies difficult to consider for families.
Academic Pressure
Many K-12 private academies have strict academic programs. This creates a lot of pressure on students to always do their best. Some students find it hard to manage the workload. This pressure on children leads to stress and burnout.
Selective Admissions
Getting into a private academy is a competitive process. Many schools ask for entrance exams, interviews, or certain academic records. Students who don’t meet these requirements don’t get in. This frustrates families who want to enroll their children in a good private school.
Parental Involvement
Private academies expect a high level of involvement from parents. This includes regular meetings, participation in school events, and supporting academic progress at home. Meeting these demands is difficult for working parents. Juggling work and school expectations adds extra stress to family life.
How Online Private School Works?
Online private schools are an alternative to traditional in-person private education. The main benefit of online schools is a lower cost than in physical schools. Students attend virtual classes, complete assignments online, and interact with teachers through digital tools. Let’s explore the key elements of how online private schools work.
Schedule
Teachers lead lessons in real-time or provide pre-recorded videos for students to watch on their own schedule. This gives students options for when and where to complete their lessons.
Digital Tools
Online private schools use various digital tools to keep students focused on their learning. These tools include quizzes on platforms like Google Forms and access to discussion boards through Canvas or Moodle. Students participate in virtual labs using tools like Labster, and explore interactive simulations from Kahoot or Nearpod. Digital tools create a dynamic learning experience, similar to what students would find in a traditional classroom.
Support
Students in online private schools get one-on-one guidance and feedback from teachers. Educators are available during virtual office hours to assist students. Teachers provide help through email consultations or live chats. This allows students to get support with their work or ask questions directly.
Online tests
Students complete assignments and take tests through the online system. These assessments are submitted electronically, and teachers provide feedback digitally. Some schools use proctoring software to monitor tests and maintain academic honesty.
How to Prepare Your Child for Success in Online Learning?
Online learning is a great option for children. This type of education requires specific preparation. Here are the key tips to help your child succeed:
- Create a quiet, organized area where the child can focus on schoolwork. Make sure the space is free from distractions, like TVs or noise from the street
- Make a schedule. Set specific times for schoolwork, breaks, and other activities
- Regularly check the child’s progress. Review assignments, ask about upcoming tests, and help plan study time. This involvement shows the importance of education and keeps the child accountable
- Make sure your child takes regular breaks and gets some physical activity. A quick walk or stretching refresh children’s mind and improve concentration
- Keep an open communication with the child’s teachers. Attend virtual parent-teacher meetings and contact the school if any concerns arise
- Teach your child how to use online learning tools effectively. Make sure they know how to access classes, submit assignments, and use educational resources
- Let the child know emotional support is always available. Invite them to share any frustrations or challenges, and give advice when needed
How Can Legacy Online School Help?
“I like the principles on which the school is based. It is respectful, supportive, and wants every child to feel successful. Here I have never heard of children being compared or even worse publicly discussed. There is always support and readiness to help, to praise, to say a kind word”
Parent’s review, Niche
Legacy Online School is a fully accredited school. There are a great selection of programs for students, helping them succeed in their studies. Certified teachers are ready to help children with any challenges.
Legacy Online School has earned the trust of students and parents through its principles and advantages. Read more about the school and its benefits in this article.
Legacy Online School team is happy to assist and provide support to parents if they need further guidance or want to enroll.