How to Finish High School a Different Way

There are many ways that students learn best. Some want more time to work on their own, and others want more one-on-one support.

With the various life circumstances, family obligations and demanding schedules that any high schooler can have, keeping up with the style of traditional high school instruction can be difficult. Many high schoolers need more support than traditional high school provides. 

So, what if there was a way to meet students where they are?

Whether through switching classroom environments, cyber school, homeschooling or a combination of any of these, students have options for finishing their K-12 education. Now, you can get a high school diploma in the best way for you.

Non-traditional high school tracks are gaining popularity as more students explore options tailored to give them fulfilling educational experiences. Keep reading to learn more about alternative education and what a customized high school education could look like for you!

High School a Different Way: Alternative Education

The term “alternative education” is growing more and more common in conversations surrounding education, especially since the pandemic. Let’s dive into what alternative education means.

What is alternative education? 

The definition of alternative education is simple: it’s any learning approach different from a traditional track. Alternative education supports individual students' unique needs, ensuring learners can obtain their high school diploma.

There are a number of myths surrounding the idea of alternative education. Often, people assume alternative education is easier than traditional education or that alternative learning won’t help students prepare for the real world. However, alternative education gives students the knowledge, critical thinking abilities and confidence that a traditional high school experience does — and sometimes even more so. Alternative education allows students to learn how they learn best.

Although it might not look the same as a traditional education, it builds the same foundation for future success as any traditional track.

What if I've already dropped out? 

Many students who have already dropped out of high school wonder if it's possible to go back to school and receive their diploma. Alternative education opens many doors for these students and creates pathways that didn't always exist. Meet 6 inspiring individuals who found success after dropping out of high school.

Customizing How You Get a High School Diploma 

Within alternative education environments, there are plenty of ways to make your high school experience meet your needs. If you’re wondering what a tailored education looks like, here are five ways that alternative education can help you have a fulfilling educational experience:

1. Less In-Class Time: Many high schoolers need help focusing in the classroom, so some alternative education solutions only require 12-24 hours a week in class. This helps students optimize the time they spend on their studies. 
2. Blended Learning: With blended learning, students can complete coursework online and have in-person instruction and help. This gives more control over how long you have to complete sections of study, helping students with busier schedules.
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3. More IEP and 504 Support: Alternative education includes dedicated teachers in a smaller, less crowded environment. This can help ensure you’re getting the most out of your accommodations. 
4. Transportation Assistance: Sometimes, students have trouble getting the transportation they need. Alternative education can offer help getting to school and getting home. 
5. Career Coaches: Students can have personal career coaches who will guide and support them as they look beyond high school at what they want to do with their lives. 

Need more support? How to stay encouraged even when high school is hard.

Explore Flexible Education for Your Diploma: Acceleration Academies

Acceleration Academies recognizes that every student learns differently. No two paths to a diploma are exactly the same, and we want to support every student in their unique journey to graduation. 

Whether you need more one-on-one time with an instructor or a schedule paced for your lifestyle, we’re here to help you get the education you need to thrive in your future. 

Want to know more about blended learning? Download our new guide on making the most of blended learning environments!