What is a Online Schools?
An online school (or virtual school) delivers K–12 education over the internet, so students learn from home or anywhere with a connection. Online schools include tuition-free public options (virtual charters and state-run programs) and private online schools, and range from fully independent study to live, scheduled virtual classes.
History & origins
Online K–12 schooling grew through the 2000s and 2010s and expanded dramatically after 2020. Today most states offer some form of public virtual schooling, alongside established private and district online programs.
Philosophy & approach
Online schools offer flexibility and accessibility — reaching students who need a different pace, location, or schedule than a brick-and-mortar school, from athletes and performers to medically fragile students, rural families, and those seeking a customized path.
Curriculum & academics
Curriculum is delivered through a learning management system with lessons, assignments, and assessments. Models vary: synchronous (live virtual classes on a schedule), asynchronous (self-paced), or blended. Public online schools follow state standards and testing.
The classroom & school day
The "classroom" is a computer: students work through online lessons, join video sessions, and communicate with teachers digitally. Success depends on self-discipline, time management, reliable internet, and family support — especially for younger students, who often need a parent "learning coach."
Grade levels & structure
Online schools serve kindergarten through grade 12. Some specialize in certain grade bands; many offer full K–12. Course-only virtual options also exist to supplement a traditional school.
Admissions & enrollment
Public online schools (virtual charters, state programs) are free and enroll residents, sometimes with a lottery. Private online schools admit by application and charge tuition. Requirements and enrollment windows vary by program and state.
Costs & financial aid
Public online schools are free (often providing a computer and materials); private online schools charge tuition. Families should confirm what technology, materials, and support are included.
Accreditation & governance
Reputable online schools are accredited and, if public, accountable to the state like other public schools. Because quality and legitimacy vary, families should verify accreditation and state approval before enrolling.
Is a Online Schools right for your child?
Online school suits self-motivated learners and families needing flexibility — for schedules, health, travel, safety, pace, or location. It requires strong self-discipline and adult support (especially for younger children), and offers less in-person social interaction, which some families supplement with activities.
How it compares to other schools
Online schools differ from traditional in-person schools in delivery, not necessarily in status: they can be public (free) or private (tuition). They overlap with homeschooling in flexibility, but an online school provides the curriculum, teachers, and (if public) accountability, whereas homeschooling is parent-directed.
Finding Online Schools
Ready to explore specific schools? K12 Academics lists thousands of schools of every type across the country.
Key facts
- TypeFully online (virtual) schools — public or private
- ModelsLive (synchronous), self-paced (asynchronous), or blended
- Best forFlexibility, pace, location, health, athletics/arts
- NeedsSelf-discipline, internet, and (for younger kids) a learning coach
- CostFree (public virtual) or tuition (private); verify accreditation
Where to learn more
To learn more and find specific schools: