ONLINE SCHOOL MENTORSHIP

AEON stands out as our first choice for online education. Developed from the ground up for a digital learning experience, it utilizes AI chatbots and anti-cheating methods to ensure a secure environment.

AEON stands out as our first choice for online education. Developed from the ground up for a digital learning experience, it utilizes AI chatbots and anti-cheating methods to ensure a secure environment.

AEON emphasizes project-based learning that encourages creativity and collaboration, providing structured support and feedback to help students master their projects. It is ideal for students who thrive on active engagement and creative tasks, though the cost may be a consideration. Overall, AEON offers an exceptional online learning experience that we wholeheartedly recommend.

    • Tuition at AEON School (Global | Online) ranges from USD $7,500 – 37,400

    • Tuition for in-person locations (such as Silicon Valley) will vary

    • AEON School offers a flexible tuition rate based on a family's financial ability

    • Indexed Tuition model determines each student's tuition based on family income, assets, and number of children enrolled

    • AEON School prioritizes Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

    • Offering flexible tuition rates based on financial need

    • Students have been accepted to top NCAA fencing programs

    • AEON School is the official partner of USA Fencing, providing personalized calendars and flexible schedules for student-athletes

    •  High tuition fees may not be affordable for all families.

    • Aeon's curriculum heavily relies on advanced technology, which may not be suitable for students who prefer traditional in-person learning.

    • Students may miss out on social interactions found in physical classrooms due to its focus on global online learning.

Kolbe is our second choice for online education, offering an online Catholic school experience where faith is integrated into every core class.

Kolbe is our second choice for online education, offering an online Catholic school experience where faith is integrated into every core class. Each class begins and ends with prayer, creating a spiritual atmosphere. The curriculum includes a rigorous reading workload, with challenging quizzes to ensure students engage with the material. Teachers maintain high standards for grammar and MLA formatting.

However, some drawbacks include a focus on content rather than skill development, limited support for writing, and a generally passive classroom environment where students mostly listen. Despite these issues, Kolbe provides a strong educational experience rooted in Catholic values.

  • Click here to see tuition options and additional fees.

    • Kolbe Academy's expert advisors and teachers provide personalized Catholic education with salvation as the ultimate goal for children.

    • Families can choose from traditional homeschool, live online, and asynchronous course formats to tailor their child's education.

    • The academy offers an authentically Catholic, classical education in the Ignatian method.

    • Kolbe Academy supports families throughout their homeschooling journey, offering services such as grading, academic advising, tuition options, standardized testing, and assistance with higher education planning.

    • The academy is accredited by Cognia and the National Association of Private Catholic and Independent Schools.

    • High tuition fees may not be affordable for all families.

    • Their books can be expensive.

    • The quarterly exams are tough

Connections Academy is a free public school in Wyoming that offers an online learning experience for grades K-12 as part of Pearson, the leading learning company.

Connections Academy is a free public school in Wyoming that offers an online learning experience for grades K-12 as part of Pearson, the leading learning company. Certified teachers provide personalized support, helping students develop essential life skills and pursue their interests. The school emphasizes adaptability, versatility, open-mindedness, and a positive attitude towards change.

While it offers flexibility with asynchronous assignments that can be submitted anytime, classes can often be passive, with limited student participation. The curriculum tends to be low in rigor, making it easy for many students. Despite these aspects, Connections Academy can be a suitable option for families seeking a free online education.

    • Connections Academy® offers a tuition-free virtual school education that fosters students' love for learning without any hidden costs.

    • Students receive a tuition-free virtual school education at Connections Academy.

    • The curriculum, created by experts in distance learning, helps students excel academically and develop life skills.

    • Connections Academy is accredited by Cognia and other organizations, ensuring high educational standards.

    • Our online learning program is tailored to meet the needs of students nationwide.

    • Prepares students for the future through personalized education.

    • Parents play a crucial role as Learning Coaches in their child's education.

    • Offers opportunities for students to socialize and collaborate with peers through virtual clubs and field trips.

    • Flexible schedule, personalized learning plans, and a variety of extracurricular activities available. Accredited and tuition-free in many states.

    • Some students may have difficulty with the self-discipline needed for self-paced learning.

    • The level of rigor may be lacking for certain students

Overview:

Virtual Academy is a free public school in Wyoming. It is recommended over Connections Academy for its engaging online learning environment. It offers a K-12 curriculum that provides students with a more interactive and rigorous educational experience.

With certified teachers providing support, students receive the guidance they need to develop essential skills and pursue their interests. The curriculum is designed to challenge students while still allowing for flexibility in their learning pace.

Overall, Wyoming Virtual Academy is an excellent option for families seeking a free, adaptable online education that prioritizes student success.

  • FREE

    • Empowered Environment: Families can customize their home learning space to suit their child's needs.

    • Flexible Pacing: Students work at their own pace, adjusting time spent on topics based on understanding.

    • Balanced Lifestyle: Online schooling allows families to juggle education with work and other commitments.

    • Diverse Perspectives: Students from various backgrounds come together, enriching discussions and ideas.

    • Digital Literacy Skills: Online learning enhances essential digital skills needed in today’s workforce.

    • WYVA primarily operates online, which means students may miss out on face-to-face interactions and socialization opportunities that come with traditional schooling.

Overview:

Acellus Academy is a program of the International Academy of Science, a nonprofit organization that has been advancing science and education for over 30 years. Established in 2001, Acellus has been adopted by thousands of schools across the United States and has provided education to millions of students globally.

As an interactive learning accelerator, Acellus combines technology and learning science to help students master content more effectively and efficiently. The program is backed by scientific research and delivers online instruction that complies with the latest educational standards.

Acellus Academy is recognized as one of the most affordable online learning platforms available, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious families.

    • Low Tuition Fees: Acellus Academy typically charges a relatively low annual tuition fee compared to many other online schools, making it a cost-effective option for families.

    • Flexible Payment Plans: The academy often offers flexible payment options, allowing families to choose a plan that fits their budget.

    • For parents looking for pricing, please visit Acellus Academy.

    1. Affordability: Acellus Academy is one of the cheapest online learning options, making it accessible for families on a budget.

    2. Self-Paced Learning: Students can work at their own pace, allowing for personalized learning experiences tailored to individual needs.

    3. Diverse Course Offerings: The platform provides a wide variety of core and elective courses, enabling students to explore different subjects.

    4. 24/7 Accessibility: Courses can be accessed anytime and anywhere, offering flexibility for families with busy schedules.

    5. Individualized Learning: The program adapts to each student’s knowledge level, promoting mastery of subjects.

    • Limited Engagement: Acellus may not provide a high level of student engagement, resulting in a more passive learning experience.

    • Less Interactive Content: The platform may lack interactive elements found in more engaging online programs, which can affect student motivation.

    • Minimal Support: Students may find limited access to live teacher support or tutoring compared to other online schools.

Overview:

University of Nebraska High School (UNHS) incorporates project-based learning into its curriculum, providing students with a hands-on approach to education. This method emphasizes real-world applications and collaborative learning.

    • UNHS offers affordable tuition for courses ranging from $300 to $550 based on credit hours. Additional costs for textbooks/materials.

    • Accredited with regional and state accreditation, offering NCAA®-approved courses

    • Responsive and caring administration, instructors, and staff

    • Enroll any day, access courses online 24/7/365, study at your own pace

    • Affordable with a wide range of courses, including core, elective, and AP classes, using a self-paced learning model

    • Limited teacher-student interaction, primarily text-based instruction.

Overview:

ICL Academy offers maximum flexibility with a focus on world-class academics, customized to align with each student’s passions and lifestyle.

ICL Academy is particularly well-suited for athletes and students involved in sports, as it allows them to pursue their passions while receiving a quality education.

  • ICL Academy offers a flexible and tailored online education, with two main tuition options for families:

    1. Full-Time Tuition: The standard full-time tuition for ICL Academy is $17,500. This comprehensive program provides students with a customized education that fits their passions and lifestyle.

    2. ICL Ignite Full-Time Tuition: For students interested in the ICL Ignite Program, the full-time tuition is $24,000. This program includes all the advantages of the traditional ICL Academy, along with additional benefits and resources designed to enhance the learning experience.

    If you're interested in single courses or part-time pricing, families are encouraged to connect with an admissions representative to discuss available options.

    1. Personalized Education: ICL Academy tailors its curriculum to fit each student’s passions and goals, providing a customized learning experience.

    2. NCAA Expertise: Families have access to an NCAA expert who helps evaluate academic backgrounds and outlines eligibility requirements for college athletics, ensuring students are on track for their athletic aspirations.

    3. Passion-Based Curriculum: The program incorporates elements of students' interests, keeping them engaged and motivated both academically and personally.

    4. Holistic Development: Focus on mental preparation, physical conditioning, nutrition, and goal setting helps students develop well-rounded skills necessary for success in sports and academics.

    5. Supportive Community: Students benefit from a community of mentors and like-minded peers, fostering collaboration and support.

    • Cost: Tuition for full-time programs can be high, which may be a barrier for some families despite the quality of education offered.

Overview:

VHS is an online private school offering Ontario Secondary School Diploma credits. Inspected by the Ontario Ministry of Education since 2001, VHS provides students worldwide with a flexible learning experience. With certified teachers, interactive content, free tutoring, and dedicated support teams, VHS focuses on meeting each student's needs. Additionally, VHS offers a collaborative learning environment with diverse courses and global connections.

    • The program fees for domestic students range from $251 to $585 USD for domestic students and $420 to $747 USD for international students.

    • Over 10 years of experience in online education leadership

    • Strong reputation with colleges and universities

    • Self-paced and flexible courses

    • Balanced student-teacher ratios

    • Extensive academic support and guidance services

    • Interactive student community programs and events

    • Collaborative learning environment with diverse course offerings

    • Opportunities for global connections with other students

    • Limited teacher-student interaction, primarily text-based instruction.

Overview:

George Washington University Online High School (GWUOHS), operated by The George Washington University, is one of the first virtual high schools affiliated with a major research university. It offers academically talented students in grades 8–12 a rigorous yet flexible college-preparatory program designed to prepare them for meaningful contributions in a global society.

  • Offers a full-time program at $12,000 per year for six courses. Individual AP courses are available for $1,200 per semester.

    • Private school education 

    • Beyond academics, students also engage in multiple clubs, share their interests, passions, and ideas, and support each other through online discussions and group projects.

    • Accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools.

    • A National Honor Society Charter school. 

    • Combination of online and hands-on materials/books. 

    • 50+ elective courses available. 

    • School clubs, yearbook, etc. included. 

    • 100% of graduates are accepted into a four-year college

  • George Washington University Online High School is more expensive than other online options.

Best For:

Students who are seeking a full-time, private school online education. 

Application Deadline: August 31

Overview:

The Keystone School, operated by K12 Inc., offers a unique, flexible education model with 40+ years of experience, helping students succeed in college, careers, trade schools, or the military. Their personalized approach sets them apart, allowing students to learn at their own pace and pursue their individual goals.

    • The cost of a full year of high school courses ranges from $1800 to $2800, depending on the courses chosen.

    • Payment plans are available without interest and discounts are offered to full-time students.

      • Flexible Enrollment: No specific enrollment date; adaptable to each student's timeline.

      • 24/7 Access: Ideal for families in different time zones.

      • Accreditation: Accredited by Cognia and the Middle States Association, meeting standards for college admissions and high school transfers.

      • Social Interaction: Opportunities to connect with peers through emails and discussion boards.

      • Progress Tracking: Weekly progress reports available.

      • Diverse Assessments: Includes quizzes, essays, multiple choice exams, and oral exams to monitor progress.

      • Skill Development: Focus on various writing styles to enhance communication skills.

      • AP Courses: Advanced Placement courses are available.

      • Qualified Teachers: Over 60% have master's or doctoral degrees in education.

    • Class Structure: Some students have mentioned that navigating the class structure can be challenging at times.

    • Course Materials: A few minor typos have been identified in quizzes and classroom materials.

    • Technical Compatibility: While courses are designed to work with most systems, Linux, iOS, and Android are not officially supported. Students using these operating systems may experience technical issues, though current versions of Firefox and Adobe Flash Player generally work well.

    • NCAA Eligibility: Keystone National coursework is not accepted for NCAA athletic eligibility.

    • GED Certification: Students cannot obtain a GED through Keystone.

Best For:

Students that excel in essay writing.

Overview:

UT High School, operated by The University of Texas at Austin, offers accredited online courses and credit-by-exam options, allowing students to earn a diploma or supplement their education while enrolled elsewhere. With flexible scheduling, a high-standard curriculum, and specialized support for students with disabilities, UTHS stands out by providing personalized services to students, educators, and schools across Texas and internationally.

    • The UT High School offers students the opportunity to enroll in courses with a maximum completion time of 150 days. Each course costs $225 per semester, with an annual full-time enrollment fee of $2,700.00.

    • High online ranking

    • NCAA approved core courses

    • AP® courses approved by The College Board

    • Flexible, asynchronous online learning model

    • Student-instructor interaction within Canvas LMS

    • Semester courses designed for same hours as traditional courses

    • Final exams taken at home

    • Textbook-free options available

    • Reviews comment on little to no homework, little direction from teachers, often too easy coursework. 

    • Bad for students that require extra attention 

Best For:

Students who are self-motivated (course designs implement an inquiry-based approach and encourage student self-assessment and autonomy.)

Overview:

James Madison High School online is a great fit for both traditional and non-traditional students. It helps students with different goals, such as earning a diploma, homeschooling, or improving job qualifications. Students can enroll anytime during the year, and the school is both nationally and regionally accredited, meeting high standards for online education.

    • Affordable online high school tuition options available: Full Pay or Monthly Pay starting at $55/month. Transfer credits to lower tuition costs.

    • High online ranking  

    • Accredited: James Madison High School is a regionally accredited online high school with accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS CASI). Also accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). 

    • Flexible: allows students to learn at their own pace. 

    • Flexible payment plans with monthly payments as low as $49 per month

    • All teachers are state-certified teachers. 

    • Reviews applaud attentive teachers 

    • Students can request one-on-one tutoring any time, online or by email or phone. 

    • All diplomas are self-paced. No due dates or deadlines. Study when and where it makes sense for you (a pro for some, con for others)

    • Online textbooks (expensive to request physical books)

Best For:

Students who flourish with self-pacing.

Overview:

Laurel Springs School offers online education for K-12 students with a wide range of course options, including college prep, honors/AP, world languages, and college credit courses.

    • Tuition fees range from $6000 to $15700 USD yearly.

    • Rolling admissions model allows for enrollment at any time

    • Flexible, personalized approach to learning

    • Emphasis on relationships with teachers, counselors, and peers

    • Wide range of electives available

    • AP courses offered

    • Accredited by WASC and Cognia/Advanced

    • Courses NCAA Division I and II and University of California a-g approved

    • Tuition can be expensive compared to other online schools.

Best For:

Students looking for a high-quality, global community and education.

Overview:

Global Online Academy is a nonprofit organization which provides online classes, workshops, and other educational resources for students and teachers. Accredited courses for middle and high school students are offered through GOA by a consortium of about 120 member schools, all independent.

    • Most GOA summer courses cost $800 for students from member schools and $1,200 for students from non-member schools.

    • Algebra I, Geometry, and Precalculus are more intensive and cost $1,100 for members and $1,400 for non-members.

    • Member schools may cover the enrollment fee for GOA summer courses, which are available to all students.

    • High-Quality Curriculum: Developed by experienced educators, fosters critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity

    • Global Perspective: Interact with peers worldwide, gain cultural awareness and communication skills

    • Flexible Learning Environment: Access course materials and discussions at own pace and schedule

    • Interactive Instruction: Utilizes innovative methods to enhance engagement and understanding

    • Professional Development: Offers opportunities for educators to stay current with best practices in online teaching and learning

    • NCAA-approved: Most of their courses are approved by the NCAA.

    • High tuition fees may be a barrier for some students

    • Scheduling conflicts for students in different time zones

Overview:

Provides a comprehensive online education program with accredited courses and personalized learning plans. Offers flexibility in scheduling.

    • Affordable online private school tuition starting at $450

    • K12 Private Academy offers accredited U.S. diplomas to international students at an affordable price with no premium charges for enrollment outside the U.S.

    • Students can choose their class times to accommodate different time zones, join live classes, or watch recordings later.

    • Dual enrollment program allows international students to earn college credit while in high school with a minimum GPA requirement.

    • All courses are taught in English, providing opportunities for language practice and interaction with teachers and peers.

  • Some students may find the curriculum to be too rigid or standardized.

Overview:

Stanford Online High School, also known as SOHS, is an online independent school for academically talented students worldwide. It serves students in grades 7-12 and offers a rigorous academic curriculum with small class sizes taught by Stanford-affiliated instructors in a virtual classroom setting.

    • Full-time tuition costs $19,950 per year

    • Single-course tuition costs $4,150 a year

    • Stanford OHS effectively prepares students for college through advanced classes designed to resemble college courses

    • Flexible for students worldwide with internet access, providing access to rigorous academic options

    • Provides a platform for high-performing students to learn from each other, fostering inspiration and skill development

    • Offers rigorous academic curriculum taught by Stanford-affiliated instructors, small class sizes, and an engaging virtual classroom environment.

    • Highly selective admissions process with fewer extracurricular activities than traditional schools.

Overview:

Penn Foster High School is one of the oldest and largest online learning institutions worldwide, offering programs designed to meet lifelong learning needs. Its self-paced courses with affordable tuition lead to a high school diploma and include career-focused electives.

    • Tuition for Penn Foster varies based on the number of credits an individual needs to transfer into the program.

    • School tuition costs per month can be as low as $50.

    • With affordable monthly payment options, students can pay towards their tuition while completing their coursework with 0% interest.

    • Several payment plans are available for students to choose from.

    • Courses can be accessed online 24/7 on computers, tablets, or mobile devices.

    • Certificate, diploma, and degree programs are accredited and recognized.

    • Learning can be done at your own pace, fitting around your schedule.

    • Limited live teacher support, primarily text-based instruction may not suit all learning styles.

Radical Minds Academy is a student co-working community for online and homeschool learners. We design and facilitate customized education plans for families seeking flexibility, precision, and quality in their child’s education.

Recommended Resources for Homeschooling

Art of Problem Solving (AoPS) Online offers a comprehensive platform for students in grades 5–12 to develop advanced mathematical skills. Since its inception in 1993, AoPS has helped students master critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, preparing them for success in prestigious competitions, universities, and future careers.

    • Tuition Fees: AoPS offers various courses, and the cost can vary depending on the specific program or course taken. Typically, prices for online courses range from approximately $400 to $700 per course.

    • Expert Instruction: Students train with some of the world’s top math minds, gaining insights from experienced educators and mentors.

    • Rigorous Curriculum: The program emphasizes deep understanding of mathematical concepts, focusing on problem-solving techniques that challenge students to think critically.

    • Competitive Preparation: AoPS is well-known for its preparation for math competitions, providing resources and training that help students excel in events like Math Olympiads and other contests.

    • Engaging Community: Students can connect with a community of motivated peers, fostering collaboration and shared learning experiences.

    1. Challenging Content: The curriculum may be too advanced for some students, particularly those who are not already inclined toward mathematics or who struggle with the subject.

    2. Self-Motivation Required: Students need to be dedicated and self-driven to succeed in this rigorous learning environment, which may not suit everyone.

    3. Cost of Enrollment: While AoPS provides high-quality education, the cost may be a barrier for some families.

IXL Learning is an online educational platform designed to provide personalized learning experiences for students from pre-K through high school. Covering a wide range of subjects—including math, language arts, science, and social studies—IXL aims to support learners in mastering key concepts and skills.

  • Pricing for a single-subject family membership starts at just $9.95/month or $79/year for one child. Each additional child costs $4/month or $40/year. For more information or to pu

    • Proven Effective
      Research consistently shows that IXL Learning produces significant results in student performance.

    • Flexible for Any Classroom
      IXL is designed to be flexible and adaptable for any classroom setting, whether traditional, hybrid, or fully online.

    • Trusted by Top Teachers
      The platform is endorsed by the Elite 100—a group of distinguished educators who share their experiences with IXL and explain why they rely on it to support student growth.

    • IXL's one-size-fits-all approach doesn't cater to individual learning styles or needs.

    • While IXL provides immediate feedback on incorrect answers, it often lacks detailed explanations or alternative ways to solve the problem. 

    • IXL focuses on isolated skills and repetitive practice, rather than fostering a deeper understanding of concepts.

Khan Academy is a free online educational platform that provides a wide variety of instructional content across multiple subjects, including math, science, economics, history, arts, and computer programming. Founded by Salman Khan in 2008, the platform aims to offer a free, world-class education to anyone, anywhere.

  • Khan Academy provides high-quality educational content at no cost, making it accessible to everyone.

    • Khan Academy offers thousands of videos, practice exercises, and instructional materials covering a broad range of subjects and grade levels, from elementary school through college-level courses.

    • Students can learn at their own pace, allowing them to revisit lessons, practice exercises, and quizzes as needed to ensure mastery of concepts.

    • Khan Academy offers tools for educators to track student progress, assign specific content, and integrate Khan Academy into their classroom teaching.

    • Khan Academy provides high-quality educational content at no cost, making it accessible to everyone.


    • While Khan Academy is excellent for foundational skills, it may not provide enough depth for advanced or specialized subjects.

    • Some users may find the lack of a structured curriculum challenging, as students must direct their own learning without a set progression.