Taking an online class is a requirement for the majority of students at SHS. It doesn’t matter which online class is chosen, but at least one class must be taken. This requirement began for traditional school and Health Academy students starting with the class of 2015.

The online class can be taken numerous ways. The most common method of taking a class online is through Florida Virtual School (FLVS) or Seminole County Virtual School (SCVS).

Health Academy guidance counselor Leslie Mulet said, “As a counselor I feel like the requirement [of taking an online class] is a step in the right direction. More and more we use and even come to depend on technology in many aspects of life.”

All students (except seniors, who are exempt) should remember that taking an online course is a requirement, and that waiting to take an online class could be a big mistake.

Junior Jennifer Caputo said, “I haven’t taken my required FLVS course yet. I haven’t decided what class I want to take online, so when I do I will take it. That will probably be in a month or two.”

Not everyone has the means necessary to take an online course. For some people it is difficult to get access to a computer. The cost of an Internet provider also creates a challenge for some.

Sophomore Sabrina Jacobs felt, “Students should not be required to take an online class because not everyone has the resources to complete virtual school.”

Students who don’t have the resources can visit the Media Center.  Many courses require daily work to stay on schedule and to complete the course on time, so finding a reliable place to use the computer is crucial.

Sophomore Kerry Campbell said, “I have taken a couple of (online) courses and you do not learn anything. I thought it was organized alright but had lots of technical difficulties.”

Some students prefer going to an actual school since they can be social and interact with other students and teachers on a daily basis. Others prefer online schooling since they can work at their own pace and take classes that aren’t available at school.

Sophomore Adriana Albaladejo said, “I prefer actual school. I took Drivers Ed because I needed to take one class online to graduate and I wanted to get my learners permit.”

Taking an online class is essential for those who have it as a requirement. Not taking a course can prevent a student from graduating. All of the core courses are available online as well as foreign languages, physical education, music, and art classes.  Don’t forget to take at least one class.