Virtual high schools are just like physical, brick-and-mortar schools, except students learn in a virtual environment. Unlike regular high schools that struggled to shift to virtual learning during the COVID-19 pandemic, accredited virtual high schools specialize in distance learning.
All types of Canadian students learn at virtual high schools, including:
- Newcomers to the country who need to catch up.
- Students who need to complete courses to qualify for college or university.
- High school students who need to repeat some courses.
- Mature adults interested in completing high schools
- Students with physical or mental health challenges.
- Homeschool students
While a quick search on the Internet may reveal several virtual high schools, some of these should be avoided as they’re diploma mills. So how do you select the right one? Here are some signs of a top online school in Ontario which offers virtual schooling to high school students:
#1 Accredited and Local
You’ll find virtual high schools located worldwide. But it’s best to stick to a school with a local physical presence in Ontario.
It’s essential to pick an accredited virtual high school that meets the requirements of the Ministry of Education. The school should also help you earn an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). This official high school diploma is nationally and internationally recognized.
#2 Students Earn Acceptance Letters
One of the most apparent signs of a top virtual high school is that its students get accepted into the best local universities. Look for a virtual school with students accepted into:
- University of Toronto
- Queen’s University
- University of McGill
- University of Waterloo
- Western Ontario
- And others.
Virtual schools with students who get accepted into top universities usually offer different types of application services. For example, they may offer the Ontario College Application Service (OCAS) to students interested in applying for colleges and the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC) to students who need assistance with undergraduate admissions.
#3 Multiple Courses
A top virtual high school should accommodate students with different educational needs. It should offer courses anywhere from Grade 7 to Grade 12. Students should be welcome to complete one course, several, or work towards graduation.
It should also offer English as a Second Language (ESL) and French Immersion courses to students with different language needs.
Another advantage of attending a good virtual high school is that it may offer non-credit courses. These are free courses that don’t earn high school diploma credits. Students take them to gain knowledge.
#4 Flexibility
Attending high school can be stressful for students, especially in a world impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. A top virtual high school should look after the mental well-being of its students with the following features:
- The school should allow students the freedom to learn at their own pace, with a full year to complete a course.
- Workloads should be manageable, with optional homework.
- Students should be allowed to place their courses on hold for a few weeks for any reason.
- Extensions should be possible.
- The institution should offer support through certified teachers, guidance counsellors, and a success staff.
- Students should have additional time to complete tests to avoid undue stress.
A top virtual high school should offer a world-class education with a recognized diploma. It should also prioritize learning by giving students the flexibility they need.