3 Tips for Enrolling Your Student in Online High School

As a parent, you are faced with unique challenges when it comes to trying to educate your student at home, particularly with high school-aged children. Whether they are easily bored or experts at procrastinating, it can be hard to keep them focused and on track. That’s where an experienced online high school program can help. Here's what you should keep in mind when you’re enrolling your student in online high school.

1. What kind of curriculum does the online high school cover?

   Finding the time to prepare and teach all of the high school subjects can feel like an overwhelming proposition. Fortunately, you don't need to be an expert on all academic areas, especially with the option of enrolling in an online program. For instance, James Madison High School offers a nationally accredited homeschool curriculum that let's high school students work at their own pace. And, our curriculum aligns with common-core standards, which means that your student will be covering subjects similar to what they’d study in a public high school.

2. How do I stay organized?

   When you’re independently homeschooling your child, you need to keep very organized documentation of what you’re teaching them. Depending on the state you live in, you may need to share your records with your local school district. One of the many benefits of enrolling your child in an online high school like James Madison is that it is an actual school, meaning that we maintain your child’s academic records. However, it’s important to note that each state may have different regulations when you transfer your child to an online school, so it’s best to check in with your school district before enrolling in JMHS. Of course, it's always a good idea to keep your own records as well. For example, list of all of the courses your child completes, including a brief scope and sequence. One way to do this is by copying the textbook's table of contents. Other items to save include:

   • Dates student completed the class
   • Graded papers and tests
   • Name of instructor

   You can also easily keep your own records by printing a copy of your student’s grades and informal “transcripts” straight from their JMHS student portal.

3. How do I motivate my high schooler?

   If your high schooler is having a hard time staying on track, don't panic. There are ways to motivate all types of online high school students.

   • Presenting information in the right way can make a big difference. Explore different learning styles with your child and together you can identify how he or she works best.
   • Make sure that the curriculum features online activities. The online program from James Madison High School is comprehensive and engaging and includes 100% interactive eBooks.
   • Consider a tutor. A new face may help your high school homeschooler get excited about learning again. Often, another educator can present lessons in a fresh way. James Madison High School offers academic support from an expert team of instructors to ensure students thrive.
   • Does your child have an effective study space? Some children are more successful in a solitary space while others prefer to be around others. If your child dislikes sitting at a desk, a beanbag chair might make it easier to focus.

Online high school doesn't need to be stressful for you or your student. All you need is a little support. With James Madison High School, your student has a team of teachers and support staff available to help, as well as an active Student Community where they can connect with other students and find study buddies. To learn more about how JMHS works, or to enroll your student today, reach out to our admissions team at 1-800-349-6861.