An online school doesn’t have to lose any aspects of a brick-and-mortar school—at least that’s what NorthStar Academy believes. So many people think that education suffers when learning from home, but it simply isn’t true. Since the school opened in 1998, NorthStar Academy has been serving students and their families completely online by providing a solid education that will take students far in life. While some people may realize that the option of attending an online school is available, there are a few added benefits that they might not have considered.

First, there is an incredible amount of flexibility with an online school. Students are able to get a full night’s rest, participate in sports or extracurricular activities any time of the day, and have the option of working ahead in their courses. For me, these perks are all very important.  Not having to wake up at six in the morning—as with brick-and-mortar schools—allows students to have time to wake up and start school when they’re in the best frame of mind. They also have the possibility of working later in the evening if that better suits their needs. 

Many students participate in sports or extracurricular activities. As one of these students myself, it’s incredibly helpful to be able to stop school and go to a practice any time of the day. One of my favorite aspects about online school, though, is being able to work ahead in my courses.  If I know that I’m going to be gone one day, I can work on extra assignments so that I won’t fall behind—it’s all so flexible.  

With flexibility comes the added benefit of having students located all around the globe.  That’s right, NorthStar is a global school. I personally have friends from Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America. The wide variety of cultures blend perfectly to make NSA a unique learning environment. While I’m finishing my day, another student could just be waking up and starting theirs—and our school accommodates for that wonderfully. Having students from around the world gives each student the chance to learn about other cultures and lifestyles, which is an opportunity students don’t get very often in a brick-and-mortar setting.  

With a global atmosphere, you might be wondering how everyone is able to connect and have community. After all, students aren’t working together the same way they would in person. Because of this, NSA holds a variety of events each year. The annual Reading Contest, College Fair, Career Fair, and SEE (Spiritual Emphasis Event) are just a few events that connect students. Our school also offers clubs! Students who share similar interests can be united while having their own space to talk about everything related to that passion.

Another benefit of an online school is the one-on-one teacher attention. In a regular classroom, it can be hard for students to reach their teachers to get the help they need. At NorthStar, students have direct, one-on-one communication with each of their teachers. This gives students the chance to have all of their questions answered and it also gives the teachers a chance to make sure students truly understand what is being taught.

Now, what if a student wants to still have a classroom-like experience but without leaving the house? Many online schools offer live class sessions—including NSA! This learning style is a bit more strict because students have to attend classes at certain times and there are firm assignment deadlines. However, students will be immersed in learning with other students and their teachers and they will have the opportunity to ask live questions.  

So, if you’ve been weighing the options between an online school and a brick-and-mortar school, stop to consider the benefits of an online school. NSA offers more flexibility, social opportunities, and teacher aid than many people give online learning credit for. It really is the best way to gain an education.