High school students can also use distance learning to get their diplomas without ever stepping into the classroom. When Julie E. Young took the job as principal of Florida High School in December of 1996, her vision was to create a high school curriculum online. Armed only with an idea and without any models to follow, she had a year to come up with the proper course work and an environment in which students would thrive. Wired News delivered to your inbox or hand-held device.
Students conduct all their course work online, and set their own pace to complete it.
They also benefit from interaction with teachers, both through email and on the telephone. FHS students generally are educated at home or enrolled at other public or private schools, where the courses they need may not be offered or do not fit into their schedules. Some students take two months to complete a course, while others take longer. Despite visions of lonely students working alone, Young said there is a tremendous amount of communication within the administration and between the administration and the students. Students interact with their teachers via email and telephone.