When my oldest son, Alloric, was just a toddler he was already recognizing words. We knew then that he was a force to be reckoned with, and that we’d have to find an educational path to keep up with him. That’s why when kindergarten came around, we wanted to find a school that would allow him to work at his own pace and would be 
tailored to him. I began looking for an online school and options in Idaho. I came across INSPIRE, the Idaho Connections Academy, and I immediately liked the fact that everything was provided and there was a support system. When my second son, Conrad, was ready for school we had no doubt that he would thrive at INSPIRE as well. It really works for all kids and their individual needs.
If you are a mom, like me, trying to tailor your child’s education – I hope you’ll consider the world of online school as an option for your children.
Here are five things I’d like you to know about our online school experience:
You are never alone
We are part of a tight-knit community here at INSPIRE. We really feel that this is a school where you belong no matter where you live or who you are. This program has allowed my children to build on their individual strengths in a nurturing setting that is safe and connected to a larger community. We have so many opportunities throughout the year to meet with other INSPIRE families. It’s not only great for my kids, but it’s also great for me as a learning coach to connect with fellow parents. We can attend field trips, back to school picnics, holiday parties, school clubs – the list goes on and on!
No surprises
I never feel surprised about what is going on in my child’s school. I know every lesson my kids are working on and I get to be involved. I don’t have to worry about what choices are being made for them, I get to be involved. We can talk through subjects, take time on those we need to understand more and move to the next subject when it’s fully grasped. As a parent, I absolutely love that I get to be a part of their learning activities and have a front seat to their educational success. It’s also reassuring to know they are connecting with their teachers and have that support.
Learning is fun
Both of my boys really enjoy participating in the LiveLesson® online class sessions and watching all of the online videos. Their teachers are able to create and lead the real-time, lively interactions of a traditional classroom, just all online. They can type or speak into a microphone to ask questions and take part in group discussions. I especially love that even in their downtime they request to watch BrainPOP, a series of educational animated movies. I am thrilled that learning is fun for them. The curriculum is really engaging, and both of my kids enjoy the topics they study and the way they are presented.
Getting Social
There are always opportunities for social activities, whether that be through INSPIRE or our family’s extracurricular activities. Both, Alloric and Conrad, enjoy taking karate classes outside of school. They’ve also been involved with the school’s First Lego League team – applying science, math, technology, and engineering concepts. We’ve attended field trips throughout the year, and even several holiday parties.
Perfect Timing
For us, we like that the boys can work at times throughout the day that are best for their learning style. They can finish their work earlier in the day, and then play outside in the afternoon. Or, if they need some downtime in the mornings, they can start schoolwork later in the day when they are ready to focus. There is variety in their learning, and we can make it work for them.
Online school has been very beneficial for our family. I hope this offers some insight to fellow moms out there looking for the right educational option for their children.
By Megan Schlekeway, mother of two children attending INSPIRE, The Idaho Connections Academy
