Five Reasons to Switch Schools Midyear

Tom Hanks once said, “Don’t you just love New York in the fall? It makes me want to go buy school supplies.” Once the leaves start turning, it just feels like back-to-school season—and the commercials and movies we grew up with, like “You’ve Got Mail,” have reinforced this concept. But our kids are in school at a unique point in time when education is changing, and there are now different school options that can complement the academic needs of your child. And you don’t have to wait until next fall to start.

Online schools, like K12-powered programs, are opening midyear enrollment for students who are ready to transition to a personalized school experience on a schedule that works best for them. With online learning, you don’t have to follow the traditional school year routine—you can pick a time frame that helps your child reach their full potential. Many families make this choice for the flexible, individualized approach, but there are many other contributing factors.

Here are some of the most common reasons families choose to transfer from a traditional school to online school midyear:

A Family Move

Starting at a new school in an unfamiliar place can be overwhelming for a child. If they’re worried about being the new kid in class and all the changes that come with a new home and town, online learning can help ease them into their environment without disrupting their learning.

Seeking a Better Fit

Sometimes, our kids’ needs change—whether that’s a different learning environment, approach to instruction, or social scene. With online school, your child can focus on learning, with a personalized academic program, protected from social conflicts or classes and teachers who just aren’t the right fit.

Health Needs

Children with fragile immune systems, allergies, asthma, critical illnesses, or frequent hospitalizations or treatments can continue school from home with fewer learning disruptions and less exposure to the germs and sicknesses that get passed around throughout the school year.

Academic Focus

Whether your child is struggling academically, is a gifted learner, or would focus better without the distractions of a traditional classroom, online school allows them to concentrate on their own progress. Plus, their academic path can be adjusted to meet them where they are and allow them to focus on areas that need improvement at a pace that works best for them.

The Unforeseen

Life can throw curveballs, and many families who made a midyear transfer shared that they never anticipated needing another school option. No matter the circumstances, these families found that the flexibility and personalized approach of online school worked well in a time when a different option was necessary.

If you find yourself in a situation like the families mentioned above, know that there are options. Talk to a dedicated Enrollment Specialist to learn more about online learning and how to get started. No matter when you start, you and your family will have all the support you need to finish out the year strong.

For more information on transferring to online school midyear, visit K12.com.