Online high schools in Nevada
Education is a topic of concern in Nevada. The state graduation rate for 2008-09 was 71.3 percent, according to the U.S. Department of Education. Nevada was the state with the lowest high school graduation rate in 2008, according to the Editorial Projects in Education Research Center. Pedro Martinez, deputy superintendent of instruction for the Clark County School District, told the Las Vegas Sun in June 2011 that only 10 of 100 students who start the 9th grade in the district will end up with a bachelor's degree.
Fortunately, there's good news for students and parents looking for an alternative to troubled school districts or inconvenient schedules. Distance learning allows for flexible class attendance and self motivation that appeals to independent students. The website of a Nevada virtual charter school also asserts that colleges value independent study programs because they prepare incoming students with skills like time management.
Choosing online high schools in Nevada
Nevada online high schools include public charter schools, with full-time programs offered on a semester schedule. Learning recovery courses allow students to make up credits needed for graduation. Here are just a few of the many subjects offered:
- Archeology
- Criminology
- Computer aided design
- Ethics
- Gothic literature
- International business
Often tuition-free, these schools are accredited and approved by the Nevada State Board of Education. Residency restrictions by county or school district may apply. One charter school addresses concerns about cyber-safety by issuing laptops outfitted with software to block objectionable sites.
Private online high schools are another option in Nevada. These schools typically do not have residency requirements and may not be located in the state. Students can choose from different courses and learning methods ranging from online discussion forums to chat rooms and video lectures. Parents and potential students should do their research before choosing the best program for their needs.