Bullying & Flexible Schedules: Why Marco Chose a Virtual High School for His Kids

It's been a long time since high school was only about learning.

Today, students — and by extension, their parents — must consider college prep and
career pathways, balancing academics with work and extracurriculars, and
maybe even bullying.

As a parent, I watched my child's self-esteem deflate because of bullying and ultimately turned to online schooling as a solution. For another child, we turned to a virtual high school when we needed the extra schedule flexibility because of teen pregnancy.

My four "kids" are out of school now, but in our area, the Idaho Technical Career Academy (ITCA) is an excellent option for families looking for an alternative. ITCA is an accredited public school, so all their teachers are certified, and there's no tuition costs.

Classes are taught with a combination of live sessions and recorded content, so it's easy to adapt to work schedules, rural or agricultural demands, or other commitments. They offer support for students with IEPs and 504 plans, as well as dual enrollment and AP classes for advanced learners. They also offer career prep pathways that include industry-recognized certifications for students interested in: 

• Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources (animal science, plant science)
• Business Management
• Digital Communication
• Health & Human Services (medical assistant, pharmacy technician)

For students and families seeking a safe and supportive learning environment, free from bullying and other disruptions, attending a virtual school can be an excellent option. Additionally, the flexibility offered by online schooling is invaluable for those dealing with unique life circumstances, which allows students to continue their education on a schedule that works for them. And, with so many people moving to Idaho from other states, online school can be a great way to help your kids transition. Instead of having your student adjust to a new school in the middle of a school year, enroll in ITCA and finish the year at home with their family.

Visit ITCA.K12.com to learn more, sample lessons, and read feedback from parents and students. They accept enrollment for the 2024-25 school year through Nov. 1, so it’s not too late to make a switch!