What to Expect When Starting Online High School in Ontario
Starting online high school in Ontario can give students more flexibility while still allowing them to work toward their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). Students can complete their coursework online with teacher support, manage their schedules more independently, and build a learning routine that fits their individual needs.
For students and parents considering the transition, understanding how online high school works can make the process feel much less overwhelming. Here’s what to expect when starting an online high school program in Ontario.
How Does Online High School Work in Ontario?
Online high school allows students to complete their courses through an online learning environment rather than attending a traditional school building every day. Students access their coursework online, complete assignments and assessments, communicate with their teachers, and work toward earning their required OSSD credits.
The exact structure can vary between schools, so families should understand how courses, teacher support, assessments, and scheduling work before enrolling.
Do Online High School Students Have Teachers?
Yes. Online learning does not mean students are learning completely on their own.
Students have access to teachers who provide instruction, feedback, clarification, and support throughout their courses. Students should also understand how and when they can communicate with their teachers before beginning their courses.
Can Students Work at Their Own Pace?
One of the reasons families consider online high school is flexibility.
Depending on the school's program and course structure, students may have more control over when and where they complete their coursework. This can be particularly helpful for student athletes, performers, students with demanding schedules, or students who need a learning environment that accommodates their individual circumstances.
Flexibility still requires responsibility. Students need to keep track of their assignments, deadlines, tests, and overall progress.
How Do Students Earn OSSD Credits Online?
Students earn OSSD credits by successfully completing approved secondary school courses and meeting the requirements that apply to their Ontario Secondary School Diploma pathway.
Before choosing courses, students should consider both their graduation requirements and their future plans. Students planning to attend college or university should also look carefully at the prerequisites required for their intended programs.
What Happens With Assignments, Tests and Exams?
Online courses still include assessments. Students may complete assignments, projects, tests, and exams as required by their course and school.
Parents and students should review the school's assessment and examination procedures before beginning a course so they understand what is expected.
Is Online High School a Good Option for Student Athletes?
It can be. Student athletes often have schedules that include practices, tournaments, travel, and competitions.
An online learning environment may give these students additional flexibility to manage their academic responsibilities around their athletic commitments while continuing to work toward their OSSD.
Can Homeschool Students Attend an Online High School?
Yes, an online high school can be an option for families looking for a structured Ontario high school program.
For a homeschool student considering an OSSD pathway, it's important to understand how previous learning and credits will be assessed and which courses are still required.
What About Students Coming From Another School?
Students do not necessarily have to start their high school education from the beginning when they move to an online school.
Their previous coursework and credits can be reviewed to determine what they have already completed and what they may still need to meet their academic goals.
This can be particularly relevant for students transferring from another Ontario high school or students changing schools during high school.
What Should Parents Expect When Their Teen Starts Online High School?
Parents can expect their student to have more independence, but that doesn't mean parents have to manage the learning process themselves.
A successful transition often involves establishing a regular study routine, understanding course expectations, keeping track of progress, and communicating with the school when questions arise.
For some students, this independence is one of the biggest adjustments when moving from a traditional classroom to online learning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is online high school in Ontario recognized?
Students should confirm that the school they choose is authorized to offer the courses and credentials they are seeking. Families should also understand the school's Ministry status and how its courses contribute toward the OSSD.
Can I start online high school in the middle of the school year?
In many situations, students can transition to an online high school during the school year. The school will need to review the student's academic history, current courses, and remaining requirements.
Can student athletes attend online high school?
Yes. The flexibility of online learning can make it an option for students balancing academics with demanding athletic schedules.
Can I take only certain courses online?
Depending on the school and the student's circumstances, it may be possible to complete individual courses online rather than moving an entire high school program online.
Is online high school completely self-directed?
Not necessarily. Online students are expected to take responsibility for their learning, but they can still have teacher instruction, communication, feedback, and academic support.
Starting Online High School: What Comes Next?
Starting an online high school program doesn't have to be complicated. The first step is understanding your current credits, your OSSD requirements, your future academic goals, and the type of learning environment that works best for you.
Aubrey Academy provides flexible online learning for Ontario students working toward their OSSD, with courses designed to support students with different academic goals, schedules, and learning needs.
If you're considering online high school for yourself or your teen, contact Aubrey Academy to discuss your options and determine which courses may be right for you.