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About K12

More than 2 million students and their families have chosen K12-powered learning. Take charge of your child’s education with an online learning program personalized to help them succeed in all the ways that meet their needs.

What’s the difference between public school, private school, and homeschool using the K12 curriculum?

K12 supplies the online curriculum for several types of learning models:

Tuition-free public schools, available in most states, operate like other public schools, and students must meet state requirements for attendance, eligibility, and testing.
K12-powered private schools are available to students from all over the country and beyond. These tuition-based schools offer additional flexibility and different levels of support; several states offer voucher and scholarship programs to make enrollment free to the parent.
K12 is also a leading homeschool curriculum provider for families who want to supplement their child’s education with additional courses.

K12 also makes all of its online courses available for individual purchase, provides one-on-one tutoring services on an as-needed basis, and offers solutions for adult education and school districts.

Is K12 accredited?

K12 is a Cognia-accredited corporation and meets the highest standards of educational management. Cognia is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing excellence in education worldwide through accreditation, research, and professional services. Cognia-accredited organizations share a unified, clear, and powerful accreditation process designed to help schools continuously improve.

Additionally, many K12-powered schools are accredited by a wide variety of respected accreditation bodies, including:

Northwest Accreditation Commission
Western Association of Schools and Colleges
NCA Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement
National Collegiate Athletic Association

Do K12-powered schools provide a structured daily schedule?

While online school provides greater flexibility for students and families to structure their daily schedule, K12 students nevertheless follow a traditional academic calendar of expected school days and must meet attendance requirements. Live classroom sessions with teachers called Class Connect help to provide a consistent daily school routine so students stay on track. Outside of their live class sessions, students can set up their lesson schedule to fit the ways they learn best. Learn more about how online school works.

What does a K12-powered school require of me as a parent?

Parents fill a role we call the Learning Coach—although the role can be fulfilled by other responsible adults designated by the child’s parents. The Learning Coach plays an important role in facilitating the learning process and varies in time commitment based on each student’s needs and grade level. Learning Coaches are not expected to be the teacher; however, the Learning Coach assists both teachers and their student to keep the student on track. We provide our Learning Coaches with lots of support materials to ensure they’re prepared to answer questions and help their student navigate the material.

In grades K–5, the Learning Coach works with the teacher to help their child through daily lessons, modifying the pace and schedule as needed. The Learning Coach manages the student’s schedule and ensures that work is being completed at a reasonable pace, while teachers monitor progress, ensure mastery, and develop specific intervention plans when a child is struggling.

As students progress into middle school they develop more independence and are able to take on more responsibility in communicating with their teachers and following their daily lesson plans.

In high school, the Learning Coach role changes to one of oversight—still playing an important supportive role to help the student stay on task and ensure the student is following through on their assignments but expecting their student to start managing her or his own time and academic schedule more directly.

Are K12 teachers experienced at teaching online?

Teachers at K12-powered schools are specially trained in virtual instruction, follow best practices that have emerged from years of real-world experiences, and participating in ongoing professional development. Many K12-powered teachers have experience teaching in both online and traditional brick-and-mortar classroom settings but choose to teach online because of the superior opportunities it brings to personalize a successful academic career for each student.

How much teacher interaction is there with K12-powered schools?

Although specific requirements for the number and frequency of live Class Connect classroom sessions vary by school, K12-powered teachers often interact individually with students and their Learning Coaches on a daily or weekly basis. Teachers are available for student support through email, phone, and virtual instruction. Once your student is enrolled you can check Class Connect schedules and teachers’ office hours in the online school system.

What curriculum is provided in K12-powered schools?

K12’s curriculum was developed by an experienced team of educators using proven instructional approaches to create an engaging, interactive learning environment. We deliver this curriculum through our online learning platform to all K12-powered schools.

What does the K12 curriculum teach? Does it include Critical Race Theory?

The K12 curriculum does not teach critical race theory. At the public schools and programs we support, K12 aligns the content, scope, and sequence of its curriculum with state standards and other requirements as set by state-specific departments of education. Course offerings differ by school and grade level; visit our K–8 online course catalog and high school online course catalog for full lists of all K12 courses.

Will my child need a COVID vaccine?

K12-powered schools follow the same state-specific vaccination rules and guidelines as other public schools in their states. To inquire about your state’s vaccination requirements, check with your State Health Department.

Is K12 different than homeschool?

In traditional homeschooling, parents choose the curriculum and hold primary responsibility for instructing their children. K12 provides many options for home-based education, one of which is online homeschooling. Our wide-ranging homeschooling curriculum is available for purchase. We also offer full-time, teacher-supported education options such as tuition-free public schools, which share the same requirements and benefits of traditional brick-and-mortar public schools.

How much funding do virtual public schools receive?

On average, virtual public schools receive 30 percent less funding than traditional public schools. The majority of costs in a high-quality public virtual school go directly to student instruction, with teacher salaries often being the highest expense category.

It’s also important to remember that not all virtual public schools are alike. There are differences between high-quality, full time, statewide virtual public schools such as K12-powered schools and other programs that offer simple correspondence or supplemental courses. Scaled-down programs usually cost significantly less to run.

School Enrollment

You can complete enrollment in three simple steps: create an online account, choose your school, and complete admissions questions. Mid-year enrollment is available once the school year has already started.

How much does it cost to attend a K12-powered school?

Costs vary depending on which option you choose. Our online public schools, available in two-thirds of U.S. states, are tuition-free. We also have a variety of private school options, each with its own fee structure—though several states offer tuition assistance for these schools. You can also purchase individual courses directly for supplemental or independent homeschool use as well as hire our online tutors for personal, 1-on-1 tutoring assistance.

What are the enrollment requirements?

For K12-powered public school enrollment, you’ll need to meet the residency and enrollment requirements for your particular state. Required enrollment documentation varies by state, so check with your area school for specific details.

Moreover, to enroll in either a K12-powered public or private school, you’ll need to have some basic computer equipment and a reliable internet connection. Some public schools are able to provide a school-owned computer for student use—check with your school directly to learn if a loaner computer can be provided. For more specific information on computer requirements, take a look at our Getting Set Up with Technology & Materials FAQs.

What documents do I need to submit during the enrollment process?

Documents submitted during the enrollment process are similar to those provided when enrolling in any public school. Enrollment documents are used to:

Confirm the legal guardian is enrolling the student(s)
Verify proper grade placement for the student(s)
Ensure course and material orders are accurate to avoid any delays
Comply with district, state, and federal requirements for public schools

The specific documents needed for enrollment varies between schools. Examples of required documents include:

Proof of Legal Guardianship (if not established by proof of age/birth certificate)
Proof of Age
Homeschool Documentation (if student was homeschooled last year)
Immunization
Health/Vision Form
Special Education Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and Evaluation Report
Report Card
Transcript

For a complete list of required documents, contact your school’s enrollment office or begin the enrollment process in the enrollment portal.

When will I receive a decision about enrollment?

Once you complete the initial enrollment process, approval can happen as quickly as 48 hours or take as long as two weeks from when the last of the required document(s) are received and verified to be sufficient. You will then receive an email confirming your student’s approval, the start date of school, and the next steps to prepare for the first day. There are some additional things to be aware of:

Some schools may require a review of transcripts or report cards before approving high school students.
We may need to determine if space is available for your student.
If there are any issues due to a document that is not legible or does not meet the requirements we’ve outlined, an enrollment consultant will contact you.
If additional documents are required to maintain an approved status, an enrollment consultant will contact you.

What is the enrollment deadline?

Enrollment deadlines vary by school. Generally, deadlines fall between late August through October for the fall semester and late January through March for spring. Many schools also offer continuous or mid-year enrollment. Contact your school’s enrollment office for specific dates.

Do I need to purchase textbooks and materials when I enroll my child?

When you enroll in a K12-powered public school program, the materials your student needs to complete each course are shipped directly to your home. Some of these materials, such as textbooks, need to be returned at the end of the year. K12 supplies pre-paid shipping labels as needed for families to return school supplies. Common household supplies, for example computer ink and paper, are not provided.

Families enrolled in a K12 private school option may receive materials as part of their tuition. Check with the private school directly to enquire about course materials.

When purchasing individual courses, all materials sent to you are yours to keep.

How do I purchase courses or enroll my child?

To purchase individual courses without being enrolled in a public or private school, visit the K12 Online Store. Visit the School Finder page to explore the best public and private school options to enroll your child.

How Online Learning Works

Online school works much like conventional school with the added convenience of a virtual platform. Students learn from anywhere there’s an internet connection on our Online Learning System (OLS) while enjoying a world-class curriculum and consistent academic guidance to support their unique learning needs.

What is a virtual public school?

A tuition-free virtual school is public school at home—or anywhere there’s an internet connection. K12-powered virtual schools combine the benefits of traditional public schools—such as certified teachers, quality curriculum, and student clubs—with the personalized attention and convenience of online learning from the safety and comfort of home.

How does it work?

Students at K12-powered schools participate in live, online class sessions called Class Connects taught by state-certified teachers and complete a mix of online and offline lessons and activities. The result is a personalized approach to an engaging curriculum. Take a closer look at how online learning works.

Will anyone from the school have to come into my home?

There are no home visits as part of the K12 program, nor are there any other intrusions into your home.

What’s expected of online students?

K12-powered students do many of the same things as students at traditional schools—they just accomplish things a little differently. Online students are expected to log in to their courses each school day, complete their lessons and assignments, and attend live Class Connect sessions with their teachers. It’s especially important in online school that students contact their teachers when they need extra help, since teachers aren’t able to see when a student is struggling—this is one of many areas in which the role of the Learning Coach is invaluable.

Students at K12-powered online public schools are also expected to participate in any state testing their school requires and may have to log their attendance depending on their school’s policy.

Do online students have a flexible schedule?

While there is more room to decide your daily schedule, online students still have expected school days that follow a traditional academic calendar and must meet attendance requirements. Students also need to attend all live Class Connect sessions with their teachers when they are scheduled. However, where school happens is up to you! So long as students have an internet connection, they can work from home or on the go. And you can organize your student’s daily schedule of lessons to match your preference—maybe by tackling a tough subject first, or starting with the class the student likes best—so you can play to your student’s strengths and personalize the day.

What are the parent’s roles and responsibilities?

A parent (or another responsible adult) acts as the child’s Learning Coach.

In elementary school and middle school, the Learning Coach works with the teacher to help the child through daily lessons, modifying the pace and schedule as needed. The Learning Coach manages the student’s schedule and ensures that work is completed at a reasonable pace, while teachers monitor progress, ensure mastery, and develop specific intervention plans when a child is struggling.

In high school, the Learning Coach role changes to one of oversight—still an important supportive role to help the student stay on task and ensure the student is following through on assignments. During high school, though, students are expected to start managing their own time and academic schedule more directly.

What is the role of the teacher in K12-powered online public schools?

In grades K–5, students usually have one teacher who is there to direct the Learning Coach, monitor progress, and focus on each student’s individual academic needs. In middle school and high school, students have a team of teachers who are certified in their areas of expertise. Teachers are responsible for reviewing all student work and providing instructional feedback. The role of the teacher is to:

Grade students’ assignments and review assessments
Respond to student questions via email or phone
Conduct online full-class discussions and tutorial sessions to reinforce difficult topics
Be available during online “office hours” to allow students to stop in with questions

How much time do students spend on the computer?

In the younger grades, many of the online lessons include offline work. Students in grades K–2 spend about 30% to 40% of their time on the computer, while students in grades 3–5 spend about 50% to 60% of their time online. Screen time increases in middle school. By high school, most of the school day is online.

For Learning Coaches, content such as the K12 national programs can be found under the My Schedule tab on the Learning Coach account page. This video explains Class Connect for Learning Coaches.

Do students in online public schools socialize?

Throughout the year, students are invited to participate in school outings, field trips, picnics, and other social events. These outings and activities may include trips to museums, skate parks, zoos, clubs, student government, dances, and even graduation ceremonies. We expect clusters of students and parents in the same local communities to get together on a regular basis in their areas.

K12 continues to explore new ways to interact socially using the powerful reach of the internet. With online discussions and forums, new types of communities can be formed based not on geography but on shared interests. Students can also join a wide variety of clubs—some student-led, some headed by teachers—covering myriad topics of interests and connecting them to their peers across the nation and around the globe. The Stride Esports League gives students an online platform to play online multiplayer video games against teams from other schools—just like a physical sports league—challenging their peers across the nation while learning powerful teambuilding and communication skills.

How many of my children can enroll in a K12-powered school option at a time?

Because K12 provides the lesson plans and materials needed for grades K–12, many parents find it easy to enroll multiple children in the program.

Where can I get answers to my questions about coronavirus?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is a reliable source for the latest information on coronavirus. These links should be helpful: About Coronavirus Disease and Coronavirus Disease Microsite.

I’m concerned about the coronavirus outbreak and protecting my child from exposure. Does K12 offer home-based virtual school options in my state?

Yes, through K12-powered schools, there are options for your student to attend public and/or private schools from the safety of your home. You can find virtual school options in your state by typing your zip code into our School Finder. Or call us at 855.593.7280.

K12 Academics

Online school with K12 works much like conventional school but through a virtual platform rather than an in-person classroom. Students attend live online classes, watch videos and engage in interactive online exercises, complete both offline and online assignments, take quizzes, participate in live discussions, post on message boards, and connect with peers. The emphasis is on a personalized education that meets each child's unique needs and learning style.

What are K12’s education standards?

The K12 team has developed comprehensive programs at the elementary, middle, and high school levels that are designed to deliver an outstanding education in an engaging, interactive way. Our philosophy is to personalize the learning experience to each child. Passionate, state-certified teachers draw on the world-class quality of the K12 curriculum to teach each student what they need to reach their full potential, in the unique way that each child needs.

What subjects will my child study?

Core courses teach language arts, math, science, and history. Music and art are offered in appropriate grade levels, and high school students have access to a robust portfolio of elective courses. We also offer world languages for grades 3–12, early learning programs for preschoolers, credit recovery, AP® courses, STEM courses, and more. Visit our K–8 online course catalog and high school online course catalog for full lists of all K12 courses. Course offerings differ by school and grade level; check with your school to see which courses and programs are available.

How is K12-powered school at home different from a traditional school?

K12-powered students do many of the same things students at traditional schools do—they just accomplish things a little differently. Classes take place virtually, and lessons can be accessed anywhere there’s an internet connection. Online students are expected to log in to their courses each school day, complete their lessons and assignments, and attend live Class Connect sessions with their teachers. Explore A Day in the Life of K12-powered students for a behind-the-scenes look at how it works.

How do students interact with teachers and other classmates in a virtual school environment?

Students participate in online Class Connect sessions, which are integral to the online school program. Students access these sessions through their secure student account. Each student has scheduled sessions with her or his teachers and classmates; the precise frequency is determined by the teacher and school.

Is a virtual school day more flexible than a traditional school day?

The online school environment can be more flexible than a traditional brick-and-mortar school schedule since you can modify the day’s schedule to suit your student’s strengths and needs. Mandatory online classes and meetings with teachers punctuate the day at scheduled times.

What are the anticipated hours for students?

Students will be expected to put in a full school day’s worth of work each day that school is in session. They will participate in online classes with their teachers and classmates and complete online lessons and assessments. Students also do offline projects, fulfill reading assignments, and work with hands-on materials.

Do K12-powered schools serve children with special needs? What do they offer advanced learners?

K12 offers personalized learning opportunities for students of all abilities, providing tools that allow them to work at their own pace. K12-powered learning works for children who need extra time to master a subject as well as those who learn quickly. Advanced Learning Programs (ALPs) for eligible K–8 graders and honors and Advance Placement® (AP®) courses for high school students are available in many K12 schools. Depending on a child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP), the school can tailor the K12 curriculum to meet the student’s unique needs. To discuss your child’s particular needs and goals, please contact your school.

How does the K12 program teach reading?

K12 has developed a proprietary PhonicsWorks reading program designed to help young students take those important first steps toward becoming a skilled reader. PhonicsWorks comprises easy-to-follow online lessons, a training video, a magnetized letter-tile kit, and illustrated books. Your child will learn to recognize the relationship between letters and sounds, blend sounds represented by letters into words, read and spell longer words that are unfamiliar by breaking them into syllables, and read sight words.

Will I receive records of course completion or a transcript?

Students and Learning Coaches have 24/7 access to student progress reports, which can be easily downloaded as Excel files. Semester reports are also available for download. In addition, Learning Coaches have access to a read-only version of the teacher’s grade book. The final grade is visible once a course is completed and final grades are posted. You can request transcripts through your teacher or school administration.

Does my child have to participate in standardized testing?

In addition to assessments and unit tests, students in K12-powered online public schools must participate in your state’s standardized testing, just as students in traditional brick-and-mortar public schools must do. Testing and dates vary by state and school.

Do K12 online high school students receive a diploma?

All students graduating from a K12-powered online public or private high school receive a state-issued high school diploma that is recognized by colleges and universities worldwide.

Can my child go on to college after graduating from a K12-powered online school?

Yes, absolutely, if that’s what they wish to do! K12-powered students have gone on to attend such postsecondary institutions as Princeton, Stanford, Duke, Northwestern, Juilliard, and the U.S. Air Force Academy. We also offer courses and workshops for students who are interested in getting started on a career straight out of high school.

Getting Set Up with Technology & Materials

K12 has almost a quarter-century of experience helping parents and students transition to the online school experience. We make it as easy and straightforward as possible to prepare for the first day of online school and succeed every day after that.

Do I need a computer to use K12?

You need either a Windows or Apple Macintosh computer with an internet connection. Required software programs can be downloaded for free from the internet. Most courses have audio, so speakers and/or headphones are required. World language courses require both speakers and microphones.

Some K12-powered online public schools will loan computer equipment to students who need it for the duration of their enrollment. Check with your school to learn their policies about issuing school-owned computer equipment as well as their eligibility requirements, if any, such as income qualifications. For more information regarding school provided computers, refer to the technical specs listed here.

What computer skills are required?

Both students and Learning Coaches need some basic computer and internet skills . We provide information on how to set up your accounts, and the online program is quite user-friendly. We provide technical help if you have questions

Does K12 take appropriate steps to keep my information secure?

K12 maintains security systems and protocols to protect the privacy of your information. See our privacy policy for more details.

What materials are needed for online school? Are any materials supplied?

Other than a computer, printer, internet connectivity, and perhaps a headset, students only need basic school supplies to learn online. This includes paper for writing and printer; pencils and a pencil sharpener; and a binder, notebook, or folders to store printed items and completed assignments. Learning Coaches also need to supply replacement ink for printers.

Students may also find these items useful:

crayons, colored markers, colored pencils
pens
highlighters
scissors
tape
glue
a ruler
index cards
page protectors
a calendar or planner
a clock, watch, or another way to keep track of time

You will also need household items occasionally; check the Materials and Advanced Preparation tabs in the elementary lessons for this information before each school week starts. Schools will often provide you with a supply list. Some schools also provide computers, printers, and a headset, and some reimburse for internet connectivity costs—you will be advised of this during enrollment by your school.

Students also need a set-aside area in which to learn. A learning area needs a work surface, such as a desk or table, seating for the student and Learning Coach, adequate lighting, minimal distractions, a place nearby to store learning materials, and a strong, reliable internet connection.

How can I keep track of materials and shipments?

Materials typically arrive by UPS shipment within a two-week window of your school start date. You can check on your materials shipment in the K12 app or in the OLS by visiting My Info. You can access My Info by logging in to your Learning Coach OLS account, clicking on your name in the upper right corner, then choosing My Info from the drop-down menu. From the Student Information screen, click on the student’s name, then select the Orders tab. Select the Order Number you wish to view, then scroll down to Course Materials for an order summary including the materials for each course, kit name, SKU number, order status, and tracking number. Use UPS.com to track your order. You can read more details about Tracking Shipping Status.

How does school email work inside the OLS?

Students are issued a school email address that is used solely for school communications. They will not receive outside communications to this email address, nor can they send outside emails from this address. Learning Coaches use a personal email account (the personal email that the Learning Coach provided during the enrollment process). Students can access their school email outside of the OLS online environment, including on mobile phones and tablets. This video explains how to update your email address and phone number.

Can I get K12 on my mobile device or e-reader?

Most mobile tablets and phones cannot be used as a primary device for accessing the Online School because they do not support all the necessary software products. However, mobile devices running the latest iOS, iPadOS, and AndroidOS operating systems can be used for some supplemental educational tasks, though your experience may vary between courses and devices.

K12 does have apps specifically created to run on smart phones and other mobile devices, but these are supportive to student lessons only. For Learning Coaches, the K12 App allows you to enroll a student, log attendance, track student progress, and contact school staff.

Learn more about our mobile apps.

When will my student be able to see a list of courses and teacher assignments?

In most schools, schedules load on the first day of school, including links to Class Connect sessions, courses, and online lessons.

How do I access online class sessions (Class Connects)?

Links to Class Connect sessions for each day appear on the landing page of both the student and Learning Coach OLS accounts. Simply click on the link to attend the session. Clicking on an expired link for a session launches a recording of the session. These links direct you to the session using the appropriate software program, which will be either Blackboard Collaborate or Newrow. (Note that the Blackboard Launcher must be installed at least 20 minutes in advance of class if you haven’t used it before.)

Can I connect with families who are currently using K12-powered schools?

Absolutely! Visit our “What’s Your Story site", where you can read real stories from K12 students and families about how a K12-powered education has made a difference in their lives. Also, many of our online public schools have Facebook pages set up to connect local families; feel free to post any questions you may have. In addition, you may want to attend one of the many activities hosted by K12 and our local schools every month, where you can meet current families and talk to teachers and representatives to get a feel for what the program is like day to day. See our events calendar to find out what’s coming up in your area.

What tools are available for parents?

Along with the curriculum, we provide parents and others serving as the Learning Coach with planning and progress tools, including an electronic calendar with suggested lessons for each day and a detailed outline of the total time required for each lesson. In addition, our built-in online tracking system gives you insight into the pace and progress of your child’s development.

Stride Career Prep

Stride Career Prep is a unique offering of many K12-powered online schools that allows students to prepare for a career, whether after college or immediately after high school graduation. Career prep features special courses, internships, certification exams, and other services in such fields as agriculture, business, criminal justice, education, manufacturing, healthcare, hospitality, IT, marketing, visual arts, and more.

What is Stride Career Prep?

Stride Career Prep is a program offered at select K12-powered online public and private schools that teaches students what they need for a bright future. In addition to core academic courses required for graduation, career-focused electives allow high school students to explore different career fields and gain skills that can help them succeed in college and the workplace. Whether they are already working in their chosen career field, intend to pursue higher education, or plan to start their careers immediately following graduation, Stride Career Prep empowers students to combine their passions and interests with the skills they’ll need to compete for jobs in high-demand fields.

Why should I enroll my student in a school with Stride Career Prep?

Some students already know what they want to do after high school, and taking career prep courses can give them a head start. Others may not know what they want to do, and Stride Career Prep can help them explore different occupations and career fields to figure out their interests. Others may simply enjoy taking courses that they find relevant to their everyday lives. Stride Career Prep helps students master professional skills such as teamwork, project management, and leadership—all needed to succeed in college or the workplace.

What are career fields and career pathways?

A career field is a broad term for an industry classification. Two popular Stride Career Prep career fields, for example, are Information Technology (IT) and Manufacturing. We divide our career fields into more specific career pathways as part of our curriculum. These pathways are specializations within a broader career field. For example, Pharmacy Technician is a pathway within the Health and Human Services career field.

Is Stride Career Prep different than homeschool?

K12 as a whole provides options for home-based education, but they’re not all the same as traditional homeschooling. Traditional homeschooling means parents choose the curriculum and hold the responsibility for instructing their children, and K12 offers purchasing options for homeschooling curriculums. But K12 also offers full-time online education options such as tuition-free public schools that feature a set curriculum and state-certified teachers just like traditional public schools.

Some of these schools offer the Stride Career Prep program. K12 Private Academy also offers a tuition-based option for Stride Career Prep, including both a full-time and part-time option. The part-time option offers more flexibility for students who want to stay at their local school while adding career courses and other activities to their existing schedule.

How much does it cost to attend a Stride Career Prep program?

Depending on your needs and location, cost of attendance varies. K12-powered online public schools that offer Stride Career Prep are available tuition-free in many states. K12 also powers a selection of private school options, each with its own fee structure.

K12 Private Academy offers a part-time, more flexible option where students can stay at their local school and add in Stride Career Prep courses and activities. Supplementary and independent homeschool classes are also available for direct purchase. Check schools in your area to find out where the Stride Career Prep program is offered.

Can students stay enrolled at their local school and still participate in Stride Career Prep?

Students can stay at their local school and add Stride Career Prep into their existing schedules through K12 Private Academy’s part-time option. This tuition-based opportunity lets students take career electives, prepare for industry certification exams, and get access to support services such as internships, networking opportunities, and career clubs, all while completing their local curriculum. Please note there is a fee associated with this flexible Stride Career Prep option.

Can students change their selected career pathways?

Yes! We understand that as students explore different careers and options through our program, they sometimes choose to change their pathway to fit their evolving career goals. Stride Career Prep helps them explore different occupations and find the career pathway that interests them the most.

Is Stride Career Prep part of the required credits needed for high school graduation?

The Stride Career Prep program is not required for graduation. Some courses may fulfill elective requirements and may, therefore, count toward graduation requirements. Check with your school counselor for specific details.

Will students receive a high school diploma?

Yes, students graduating from a K12-powered school receive a high school diploma.

Can students earn industry-recognized certifications or credentials?

Stride Career Prep prepares students to take one or more industry-recognized certification exams, depending on the selected career pathway and how many courses they successfully complete. Certifications or credentials are issued by various certifying bodies, including Adobe®, Microsoft®, NOCTI®, and ACTE®.

An industry-recognized certification is a way your student can demonstrate to college admissions officers and employers that they have the skills and technical expertise to be successful in a particular field. Most certifications require students to take an exam to show they’re knowledgeable in the content learned throughout their course of study. Exam requirements may include a hands-on component. Test preparation is a part of Stride Career Prep, which supports students in their efforts to obtain the hands-on/practicum they’ll need to be prepared for the certification exam.

How do students take certification exams?

Most certifications require students to take an exam that may include a hands-on component to show they’re knowledgeable in the content learned throughout their course of study. Stride Career Prep includes test preparation for pathway-specific certification exams.

Most career pathways consist of four to six specialized courses followed by some work-based experience. Typically, students need to be in a pathway for two years to complete these specialized courses in addition to core subjects. Certain certifications, however, such as Adobe® Photoshop or Microsoft® Excel, can be obtained after completion of a single course.

Exam fees vary and may be paid for by the school. Check with your counselor for details.

Does my student need an internship to graduate?

Students do not need an internship to graduate. A hands-on component, however, may be required to complete certification requirements and prepare for certification exams.

How often do classes meet?

Students have live online class sessions led by teachers called Class Connects regularly each week. The number of Class Connects a student must attend depends on the course and the progress they’re making in the curriculum.

How do students contact their teachers?

Students can contact their teachers during Class Connects or at any time by email. Teachers may also offer additional ways to communicate. Students should check with their teachers for their preferred methods of communication.

What is a typical day like?

A typical school day will vary depending on the student’s grade, course load, and chosen career pathway. In general, students can expect a mix of individual coursework, teacher-led instruction, assessments, and project collaboration with other students. This learning environment prepares students for the modern workforce. Visit A Day in the Life to see how K12-powered students spend their days.

Do all the career pathways have the same number of credits? Is there a course list for each career pathway?

The number of courses will vary depending on the pathway. For details on a particular pathway course sequence, students should speak with their school counselor.

What is a career and technical student organization (CTSO)?

A CTSO is a career club where students with similar career interests connect, collaborate, and even compete against other schools. Participation in these student-led organizations can help students build teamwork, communication and leadership skills, citizenship, and volunteerism.

What CTSOs does Stride Career Prep offer?

Offerings vary by school but include one or more of the following clubs: DECA (an association of marketing students), FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America), FCCLA (Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America), HOSA (future health professionals), and SkillsUSA.

K12 for Homeschool

The K12 online curriculum works well for traditional homeschoolers, and homeschooling parents can also choose to enroll their child in a K12-powered online school.

Is K12 different than homeschool?

Yes. For traditional homeschooling, in which parents choose the curriculum and hold primary responsibility for instructing their children, K12-offers quality online courses available for individual purchase together with teacher support and instruction when it is part of those courses. Homeschool parents can also choose to enroll their children in a K12-powered online school that shares the same requirements and benefits of traditional brick-and-mortar schools and places the primary role of teacher on trained, certified K12 teachers and asks the parent (or other qualified adult) to play the at-home role Learning Coach to keep the student on track.

Is a K12 education in online school a good alternative to traditional homeschooling?

K12-powered online schools—both tuition-free public schools and tuition-based private schools—offer comprehensive, time-tested programs and curriculum designed to accommodate a multitude of learning styles. Whether your child needs extra support or seeks a greater learning challenge, K12-powered schools provide an online education that is personalized to fit each child’s unique needs and learning style. Over 1 million students have chosen a K12-powered online education as an alternative to traditional brick-and mortar schools and parent-directed homeschooling.

What are the benefits of homeschooling through a K12-powered online school?

K12-powered online schools offer greater flexibility and a more personalized approach to learning that can benefit many students. Students can thrive with an engaging, interactive curriculum that combines online, teacher-led lessons with hands-on activities as well as a supportive community of instructors, counselors, administrators, and peers.

Purchasing & Using Individual Online Courses

K12 provides individual courses from its large online curriculum for sale. If your student is enrolled in a K12-powered public or private school, you already have access to these courses and do not need to purchase them separately. Parents of students in traditional schools may wish to purchase individual online courses to supplement or add to the brick-and-mortar classroom, and homeschooling parents can use these individual courses without enrolling their child in an online school.

How do I purchase courses from K12?

You can purchase courses from K12 using our online store, or by calling us at 866.512.6463.

What’s available for purchase online?

All K12 courses used in online public and private schools are available for purchase. We offer over 100 K–8 independent study courses, which do not require a teacher, as well as more than 240 K–12 teacher-supported courses, including world languages.

What payment options do you accept?

We accept all major credit cards—Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. For orders placed via phone, we also accept wire transfers.

We also offer several payment plan options; for independent study courses (K–8 courses without teacher support):

You may purchase the course in full and pay the total amount
You may purchase the course in full and spread your payments over 12 months
You may purchase the course one month at a time, paying through automatic renewal until you cancel.

If you purchase an individual K–12 course with teacher support, you must pay in full.

Are there any discounts available?

Yes! K12 offers several types of discounts based on the number of courses, number of students, and the payment plan you choose. Learn more about discounts and special offers on our pricing page.

If you add courses later, however, you will not still get the volume discount. You can purchase more courses at any time; however, you will not be eligible for the volume discounts for the new courses. The volume and sibling discounts are applicable only for the independent study courses purchased within one transaction (together).

When can I begin a course, and for how long will I have access?

For K12 independent study courses, we offer start dates every two weeks. You will have access to independent study courses for 12 months from the start date of your course.

For K12 teacher-supported courses, each course has a set start date from which you can select when you purchase the course. All world language courses are also offered every two weeks. You will have access to teacher-supported courses for 10 months for “full-year” courses and 5 months for semester-long courses. Access begins on the start date of your course.

What is the difference between course start date and course activation date?

The course activation date is the date on which you can access a course in the Online School (OLS). The course start date is the date on which the course begins.

For all independent study courses, the course activation date is the same as the course start date.
For teacher-supported courses in grades K–8, the course activation date is seven days prior to course start date, which allows students and Learning Coaches time to become acquainted with the OLS.
For teacher-supported high school courses, the course activation date is the same as the course start date, although the student will have access to an orientation course seven days before the course start date to help them become acquainted with the online learning platform.

What happens if my child hasn’t finished the course at the end of 12 months and isn’t ready to move to the next level?

You have multiple options to extend the course for your child:

You can purchase a monthly subscription to give your child time to complete the course.
You can purchase the same course in full again. Once your student completes the course, you can call the K12 Enrollment Center (866.512.6463) and they will exchange that course for the next-level course. Access to the next-level course will remain open for 12 months from the start date of the first course repurchase, not from the exchange date of the next-level course.

What are your cancellation and refund policies?

For K–8 independent study courses, we offer a 30-day money-back guarantee on all course purchases.

For monthly subscription: If you notify us of cancellation by phone and speak to an agent, your access will be cancelled the same day at 11:59 pm EST. You will not be charged any future payments. Charges already incurred will not be prorated, however, and refunds will not be available for all or any part of the month in which you cancelled. Voicemails will not be considered notification; you must speak to an agent in order to cancel a course.
For courses purchased in full or on a payment plan: If you notify us of cancellation by phone within 30 days of the course start date, you will receive a 100% refund. No refund will be given after 30 days of the course start date. Voicemails will not be considered notification; you must speak to an agent in order to cancel a course.
Materials purchases are eligible for a refund only when returned unused in the first 30 days of your course purchase date or course start date (whichever is later).

For teacher-supported courses provided through K12 Private Academy on a part-time basis, a written request to drop a course or to withdraw the child from the school must be provided via email or in letter form. Refunds are calculated based on the withdrawal date, which is the postmark and/or electronic imprint date on the written notification. Specific information on the percentage of tuition available for a refund is outlined below:

Course Type	100% Refund	50% Refund	No Refund
Non-Summer Courses	Prior to Term Start	Day 1–Day 30 of Term	After Day 30 of Term*
Summer Courses	Prior to Term Start	Day 1–Day 5 of Term	After Day 5 of Term**

*Course drops are not permitted during the final 30 instructional days of a term.

**Summer course drops are not permitted during the final five instructional days of a term.

There are no refunds on materials or shipping charges for teacher-supported courses.

For more details, please read the K12 Private Academy refund policy.

How does a monthly subscription work?

Monthly subscriptions offer students access to a K–8 course on a month-to-month basis. This subscription automatically renews each month unless you call to cancel.

The monthly subscription option works best if you:

Want to try a course before fully committing. Select this option if you aren’t sure if this course is right for you.
Plan to use a course as a supplement to another program. If you are planning to cover only selected topics from the course, or perhaps not use it for a full 12 months, then this option may be more cost effective for you.
Plan to move quickly through the course. If you believe you can complete a course within seven months instead of the typical year, then purchasing this option may be more cost effective for you.

Your monthly subscription is automatically renewed at the end of each month once you sign up. Please call 866.512.2273 (866.K12.CARE) to cancel the subscription.

How do I access my courses and lessons?

If you have already established an account with K12, please use your existing username and password to access the online course by clicking OLS Login on the top right corner of the K12 homepage.

If you haven’t already established a K12 account, we will email your registration and login information (username and password) at least one business day before the start of your course.

I purchased a K12 course for my oldest child. Will I have to buy all the materials again for my younger child taking the same course?

No. One of the features of the K12 program is the flexibility to buy only the materials you need. You can purchase just the “Consumable Kit” for your second child for many of the K12 courses, allowing you to reuse materials you’ve already purchased. The Consumable Kit includes workbooks and other items from the Standard Kit that are required to complete the course, but that cannot be reused. The Consumable Kit also includes the Teacher and Student Pages.

Will I have access to my K12 courses in the summer if I buy them mid-year?

You will have access to your K12 courses for the entire time period (full year or semester) for which you purchased the courses.

I bought the wrong course or used the wrong payment option. What can I do?

If you bought a course online and realize you selected the wrong course, call K12 at 866.512.6463 to exchange the course. Please remember that courses can only be exchanged up to 30 days following the course start date.

If you bought a course online and realize that you selected the wrong payment option, just call K12 at 866.512.6463 to correct the error and select the correct payment option.

How can I place an international order?

You can place an international order by calling us at 866.637.1985 (or 703.436.3544).

Shipping charges for international orders are determined at time of order and will be communicated to you prior to order placement. The time frame for shipping international orders will vary depending on the service selected for the order. Please note: Orders to APO addresses can only be shipped via USPS and no tracking information will be provided.

How will my credit card be billed?

At the time of order, your credit card is charged for:

Materials and shipping
Total course fee if purchased in full

For monthly subscription and courses purchased through multiple payments, the first month’s fee will be charged upon course activation.

You will be able to pick your bill date. Your bill date is the same as your course start date, and you can select the course start date at the time of course purchase.

Your credit card will be charged a monthly amount if you selected either the monthly subscription or payment plan option. The charge date shown on your credit card is based on your course start date(s). You will see separate charges throughout the month on your credit card if you selected different course start dates for multiple courses; each course will appear as a separate charges.

Why do I receive multiple confirmation emails?

You will receive multiple emails if you purchased courses for multiple students, purchased teacher-supported courses, or purchased courses with differing start dates. These emails provide you with answers to important questions regarding our cancellation policies and materials tracking, as well as information on how to get started with your courses. They also contain details for submitting verification information required for teacher-supported courses.

What shipping method do you use for materials?

The default shipping method for all orders is UPS ground. However, there are a few exceptions:

Shipments to HI, AK, and PR go through UPS 2-day air.
Shipments to other countries go through UPS International or DHL.
Shipments to PO boxes, APO, and other military addresses go through USP.

How do I notify K12 of a change in name, address, email, or phone?

Please call K12 at 866.512.2273.

Midyear Transfer to Online School

Deciding to change schools is a big step, especially in the middle of the academic year. We want to help you feel confident and excited about your choice. Here you’ll find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about what to expect throughout the enrollment process.

Is it too late to enroll now?

Probably not! Check with your preferred school by visiting the school website or calling them directly. Some schools may close enrollment due to capacity limits, or they may have specific midyear start dates. Find out which schools are available in your area by using our School Finder.

How much time should we expect to spend on schoolwork during the day?

Students work through material at their own pace, so the amount of time required to get through each day’s lessons can vary. In the elementary grades, students spend 4 to 7 hours a day on school five days per week. In middle school, students are expected to spend 5 to 7 hours on schoolwork each day, and high school students average 6 to 7 hours a day. Students who transfer to a K12-powered school midsemester may need to spend some additional time at first to catch up on material they have not yet covered. Watch to learn more details about the time commitment of online schooling.

How do I start the enrollment process?

In most cases, you can complete enrollment in a few simple steps. However, the process may vary by state, so it’s a good idea to check with the school you’re interested in for any additional steps and important dates. To get started, download the K12 App or visit our How to Enroll page.

Will my student’s current credits and classes transfer?

Your school counselor will work with you and your teachers to assess your student’s current progress, determine which credits can be accepted, and where your student may need extra support or credit recovery. For specific concerns, contact your school.

Are there ways to connect with other families?

Yes! We encourage you to draw support from our community. To start, visit our Day in the Life hub, where you can read stories from real students and families about how a K12-powered education has made a difference in their lives. We also recommend the Behind the Scenes Facebook group. Some schools have a Learning Coach Community built right in the K12 App—check to see if your school is one of them! Also, many K12-powered schools have Facebook pages to connect with local families. In addition, you can attend one of the many events and activities where you will meet other families and teachers. See our events calendar to find out what’s coming up near you.

When should I disenroll my student from her or his current school?

Most state laws have clear policies about education obligations and ensuring children actively receive instruction. To avoid issues, keep children enrolled and active in their current school or registered as homeschooled until they’ve completed their first day with their K12-powered school. If you have specific questions about your state, you can chat with an enrollment consultant.

How can I find out which school options are available in my state?

Check for schools near you with our School Finder. This will show both public and private school options.

Why should I choose a K12-powered school?

K12 has been a leader in online learning for more than 20 years. Our curriculum was designed to be online and is taught by teachers trained in virtual instruction. Learn more about why families choose K12.

When will our materials arrive, and can my student start without them?

K12 provides materials that students need to complete their courses. You’ll be notified when materials ship through your K12 App or in your parent account. For more on how to track your shipping status, visit our customer support page. If we experience delays due to events outside our control, the teachers and school will work with you to determine what your student can work on or adjust the timing if necessary. The Online School (OLS) can be accessed through any computer, so if the shipping of a school-owned computer is delayed, please arrange for temporary computer access if possible.

How much time should I expect to spend supporting my student?

As a parent, you (or another responsible adult) serve as your child’s Learning Coach. You’ll work with your child’s teacher to help record student attendance, monitor mastery of lessons and assessments, and in some grades, review student work. You can expect to spend 4 to 6 hours a day assisting your elementary student and 1 to 3 hours overseeing your middle and high school student each day.

Is there an orientation session?

Most schools offer online orientations for new students, which you should attend on or before your first day. Also, students need to complete the Welcome to Online Learning introduction course in the Online School (OLS) to unlock their curriculum. Students should plan to spend 30 to 45 minutes working through the course topics within their first week of school to receive full credit.

How often will my child have required synchronous online classes?

The frequency of classes and whether attendance is required in real-time will depend on your school’s policies, course requirements, and the needs of your student. Check with your school for specifics.

Can I really be my student’s Learning Coach while working full-time?

Adding the role of Learning Coach to your day as a working parent can be challenging—but it can be done. Plus, you have support to help you succeed. From lesson guides to encouragement from other Learning Coaches, you’ll have lots of help along the way. Take a look at our community of support.

Who should I contact when I have questions or need support?

If you have questions about getting started, don’t hesitate to call our enrollment consultants at 866.968.7512.

Will my student be behind by switching schools midyear?

While there’s usually some overlap or gaps in the topics a student has covered when transferring midsemester, they can still catch up. Your school and teachers will determine the best course of action for aligning your student academically. Plan some extra learning-curve or makeup-work time, knowing that the teachers try to keep any extra work manageable.

When will I hear from my student’s teacher?

You can expect to begin working with your teacher(s) on your student’s first day of school. Course placements and teacher assignments are often in flux right up to the start date, so don’t be concerned if you don’t hear from a teacher before then. Watch your email and check your spam to make sure you don’t miss any initial communication. On the first day of school, log in to see any emails and announcements.

When will my student have access to classes?

Courses should appear in your student’s account on their first day of school unless you’ve heard otherwise. Sometimes a counselor must review your student’s transcript to help determine course placement for your student; contact your school directly with any questions.

How do I set up our accounts?

Once your student is approved, you’ll receive instructions on setting up a Learning Coach account in the “OLS” or Online School and then creating a separate, linked account for your student. You can also watch this quick tutorial to see how it’s done.

For Military Families

Each PCS, TDY, and deployment can disrupt your child’s learning. An education at a K12-powered online school is designed to provide military families the consistency of personalized learning, certified-teacher support, and a quality curriculum that can support your child’s education and your family’s lifestyle.

Should I enroll in a K12-powered school using my state of legal residence or my current duty station?

To enroll in a K12-powered online school, find a school for the state in which you are currently residing in physically. You will have to show proof of residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement.

What if I’m moving to a state that does not offer a K12-powered online public school?

We offer a range of high-quality education options, including several tuition-based online private schools that offer a military family discount. Learn more about our K12-powered online private school choices to see which option might be best for your family.

What are my options if my family is stationed internationally?

We offer several international options that provide the consistency and flexibility your family requires. Learn more about our international offerings outside the U.S.

How do I transfer schools between states?

Simply fill out an application for the school you are looking to transfer to. We have an approved student transfer process and will contact you to complete the transfer. Find out what K12-powered schools are available in your new state.

Will my child have options to engage and socialize with other students?

With online engagement activities, including school art competitions, STEM events, student associations, and online clubs, K12-powered online extracurricular activities unite students as they unwind, have fun, and explore shared passions. Learn more about our opportunities for socialization and enrichment.

For School Districts

Does K12 offer solutions or consulting services to help districts with disaster preparedness such as the situation with COVID-19?

Yes. K12’s technology and online curriculum have provided a critical educational refuge for students following natural disasters such as hurricanes. And we stand prepared to help in the case of the pandemic. There are several options available for school districts that wish to help their teachers leverage the K12 platform. And K12 can help you design disaster preparedness programs. Call us at 855.593.7280 or visit Stride Learning Solutions.

Does K12 use state-certified teachers?

Yes, K12 programs utilize state-certified teachers.

Can a school district use its own teachers as part of this solution?

Yes. K12 can provide the curriculum and technology while the school district provides instruction from its own teachers.

Can K12 ramp up quickly to support a school district or state’s needs?

Yes. K12 has the ability to quickly stand up content, systems, and teaching staff. Call 855.593.7280 or visit Stride Learning Solutions.