Why Students Are Choosing Online High Schools

Stanford is putting its name behind an online high school, the Education Program for Gifted Youth (EPGY).  EPGY has been in existence for many years now, but Stanford will now lend its name to the high school diplomas its students recieve.

More than 275,000 students across the country are currently enrolled in online high schools.  Some of them soley take online classes, while others use online classes to supplement the education they receive at their local school.  Many take online classes to fit their busy schedules as aspiring actors or world-class athletes.  For some, an online high school is a much better alternative to the schooling offered by remote school districts.  Whatever the case, the enrollment figures for online high schools are increasing yearly.

In EPGY's program, students take classes via video-chats and instant messaging.  A typical class has 15-20 students, and technology allows for class discussions as if everyone were in the same room.  Tests are administered by EPGY approved proctors, and the program even allows for group projects.

For more about the online high school trend, read this article in the New York Times.