Online high schools in Kansas

Online high schools in Kansas offer choices ranging from personalized private school diploma programs to public school courses, some of which are free. The state's support of virtual education is evidenced by the growing number of e-learning options and the existence of the Virtual Education Advisory Council, run by the state Department of Education. Some public distance learning programs are tuition-free because the state treats them as school districts.

Students choose Kansas online high schools for a variety of reasons, and the different programs reflect their needs. Virtual programs can reach a more diverse group of students than traditional classrooms and can tailor courses to individual student needs. Some virtual schools focus on specific subject areas, such as math and science or health sciences. Others specialize in areas such as the following:

• Advanced Placement, or AP
• Career training
• Courses for at-risk students
• GED alternative programs

Future trends for Kansas online high schools

In the 2008/2009 school year, Kansas online high schools largely targeted the areas of credit recovery and diploma completion. The course list for the 2011/2012 school year looks very different. Although online credit recovery programs still exist, now a wider range of public schools provide more types of courses. In short, virtual education is continually expanding to include students from a variety of backgrounds and abilities. Private schools in Kansas further expand your scheduling and curriculum choices.

As you sift through the list of online high schools in Kansas, remember that accredited schools may best assure that you are meeting state education standards and that your credits can be transferred.