There is another option these days for motivated students working toward high school graduation.<\/p>\n
Southwest Colorado eSchool is a fully accredited, free public school that offers online credit courses for middle and high school grades 7-12.<\/p>\n
The school caters to dedicated students who need a flexible schedule or are seeking advanced classes and more career training.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019ve seen a lot of growth this year,\u201d said principal Mike Freeburn. \u201cWe offer incredible opportunities for our students.\u201d<\/p>\n
In its fifth year, the school has 300 participating students, the most yet.<\/p>\n
They have the same curriculum requirements of a brick-and-mortar school. Students take tests, do assignments, complete homework and get instruction from qualified teachers. It is funded by the state.<\/p>\n
Freeburn emphasizes that the courses are \u201chigh quality and rigorous.\u201d Students need to be motivated and organized to pass classes and earn an accredited graduation diploma.<\/p>\n
The difference is that classes, teacher instruction and assignments are accessed via a computer from anywhere with an Internet connection.<\/p>\n
Typical candidates are students who travel, work, are involved in sports or have family obligations. Students can go part-time or full-time, and take a variety of programs.<\/p>\n
Student Amy Leonard, a 10th-grader, is in her first semester at the online school and is finding success. The flexibility allows her to continue competing in horse jumping.<\/p>\n
\u201cI can still do my riding and take classes using the computer,\u201d she said. \u201cIt\u2019s been great, and I\u2019m getting better grades than when I was in a regular school.\u201d<\/p>\n
The school has a hybrid system that allows a student to take, for example, four courses at a physical school, and elective courses at the online school at no charge.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt gives a student who is a musician or in rodeo, more flexibility to continue doing what they love and still work toward graduation along with their peers,\u201d Freeburn said.<\/p>\n
The school offers opportunity for home school students as well. It\u2019s ideal for taking advance topics such as math and science that are beyond what their parents can handle.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt is an awesome opportunity for them, and at no cost,\u201d Freeman said. \u201cAnd they do not lose the home school autonomy designation exempting them from state tests and surveys.\u201d<\/p>\n
The eSchool benefits advanced students as well who need challenge and want to move ahead. Summer credit advancement programs include algebra, algebra 2, pre-calculus, calculus and differential equations.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey pack 18 weeks of the semester into eight weeks,\u201d Freeburn said. \u201cAn advanced and motivated student could earn half a college math degree by the time they graduate high school.\u201d<\/p>\n
Credit recovery during summer school is also offered. There is a charge for summer school credits.<\/p>\n
The school offers elective courses not offered in many schools, such as astronomy, criminology, forensics, environmental science, psychology, video game design and computer programing.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe prepare students for college, junior college, military and trade schools,\u201d Freeman said. \u201cWe are a school on the rise with cutting-edge programs.\u201d<\/p>\n
But don\u2019t expect an easy ride, warned Leonard.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s rigorous. You have to be organized, stay on top of all your classes and turn in your work,\u201d she said. \u201cThe advantage is having a flexible schedule that allows you to continue school while doing what you love. It has given me confidence, and I will be continuing the program next year.\u201d<\/p>\n
The school has learning centers in Dolores and Durango with tutors, tech support, and instructors.<\/p>\n
For more information, go to http:\/\/www.southwestcoloradoeschool.org<\/a>\/ or call 970-403-0946 or 970-247-8333.<\/p>\n