Since 1996, Sequoia Choice Distance Learning has been breaking down the walls between traditional, home and distance learning schools.  Our K-12 programs enable students to design and Individualize their education by having the freedom to choose the learning environment, pace and curriculum that works best for their learning style. 

"Don’t believe everything you hear about online high schools. Dispel your misconceptions by finding out the truth behind the ten most common myths."

Myth #1 - Colleges won’t accept diplomas from online high schools.

Colleges around the country have accepted and will continue to accept high school diplomas from students who have done their work online. There is a catch, however: in order to be widely accepted a diploma must come from an online school that has accreditation from the proper regional board. As long as this is covered, colleges should accept diplomas from distance learning schools in the same manner they accept diplomas from traditional schools.

Myth #2 - Online high schools are for “troubled kids.”

Of course, there are some online programs that cater to students who haven’t been successful in traditional schools. However, there are many more online schools targeted  to gifted students, students who desire to accelerate their  education and graduate early, adult learners and students with special academic interests that are not addressed by their local school.

Myth #3 - Online classes aren’t as challenging as traditional classes.

When looking for an online school, you will find a wide range of difficulty. The nice thing is that you can pick the school and class type that fits your knowledge and ability best.

Myth #4 - Online high schools are as expensive as private schools.

Some online high schools are costly, but there are also many quality schools with low tuition rates. Even better, state-sponsored charter schools give online students the opportunity to learn for free. Some charter schools will even provide a home computer, internet access, specialized materials, and personal tutoring at no cost.

Myth #5 - Distance learning students don’t get enough socialization.

Many distance learning students connect with friends in their neighborhoods, meet others through community organizations, and participate in outings with other online students. Online schools may also provide the opportunity to interact with students and teachers through message boards, email addresses, and live chat.

Myth #6 - Online high school students do less work than traditional students.

Online students tend to finish their work faster than students in a traditional classroom largely because they are able to focus without interruption. However, that does not mean they’re doing less. Consider the interruptions in a traditional school student's day: breaks, transition periods, busy work, waiting for other students to catch up, teachers trying to quiet down the class, etc.. Without all these distractions online learners can generally accomplish more in less time.

Myth #7 - Students who earn credits online won’t be able to transfer them to traditional high schools.

As long as the online high school is accredited the credits generally transfer to a traditional high school. Sometimes credits don’t transfer because the traditional high school has different graduation requirements than the online school. The same issue arises between two traditional high schools. If there is a question, just contact your local school district.

Myth #8 - Distance learning students don’t get enough physical activity when they take classes online.

Most online schools require that students complete a physical education requirement in order to graduate. Many distance learning students also participate in community sports teams and other athletic activities. Some traditional schools even make exceptions allowing local distance learning students to participate in school sports programs.

Myth #9 - Distance learning students can’t participate in extracurricular activities.