Statistics show that a high school education can make a big difference not only in getting a job but receiving higher pay. One of the many marvels of computers is the opportunity to get that important education on line. However, statistics also show that graduation rates in the U.S. are declining rapidly and schools are increasingly more violent, vulgar, and dangerous places to send your child.

After the mass shooting at the elementary school in Sandy Hook, my husband and I have seriously started considering home-schooling or allowing our oldest son to attend school online. But he’s in high school and it’s a tough decision to make! Luckily, we were able to test out the idea by enrolling him in an online summer school to see how he liked it. Below, you’ll find a few of the things we’re considering while deciding whether or not to send our son to an online high school.

Part of my best memories growing up were from the times I spent at school. Hanging out with my friends at the bus stop, sitting together at lunch, and playing sports together at P.E. are all important aspects of my life. But things have changed. So why study online rather than a classroom? The difference is freedom. Online programs provide the flexibility and convenience that classrooms can’t.

First, the online student can study at his/her own pace rather than having to conform to a classroom teacher’s schedule. Online school courses are planned so that a student cannot go to the next level until the current level is completed. This helps to ensure the student understands what has been studied. A slow learner can progress without pressure and stress. On the other hand, smarter youth can progress faster through the courses and may finish earlier than his classroom peers.
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