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Frequently Asked Questions

What is an online school?

Online schools like National Heritage Online Academy bring the in-person classroom experience fully-online. Our school is an excellent solution for students and families seeking an educational option where students can learn from home.

Who can attend an online charter school?

Our school is open to all students entering grades K-12 who reside in the state of North Carolina.

How do I apply to National Heritage Online Academy?

Applying is simple and can be completed entirely online.
  • Complete the online application
  • Receive a confirmation email once your application is submitted
  • You will be notified if your student is accepted, if a lottery is needed, or if they are placed on the waiting list
  • If accepted, log into the Parent Portal to upload required documents (such as proof of residency and student records)
If we receive more applications than seats available, a lottery will be held in accordance with state guidelines. 

Our team will guide you through each step and keep you informed along the way. Visit our Admissions page for full details and important dates.

What learning options are available at National Heritage Online Academy?

National Heritage Online Academy offers two learning options: Live Online and Self-Paced.

Live Online provides a structured school day with real-time classes led by credentialed teachers. Self-Paced offers a more flexible schedule, allowing students to learn at their own pace with teacher support.

Both options use a research-backed curriculum and help students grow academically and in character through Moral Focus™.

How are online schools different from in-person schools?

Online schools allow students and families the flexibility to learn from teachers without having to attend in-person classes. Students learn from a rich and challenging curriculum, engage in live classes and discussions, have the opportunity to participate in enrichment and electives, and graduate with acceptance into a four-year college/university.

How are online charter schools managed?

Online charter schools can operate alone or through a management organization. National Heritage Academies® (NHA®) provides central support to National Heritage Online Academy so the school team can focus their energy on teaching and learning.
 
On a local level, individual schools can be managed by their own Board of Directors who provide guidance and oversight to the principal.

What are authorizers?

An authorizer is an entity that monitors the performance, finances, and organizational stability of charter schools, including our virtual school, and has the authority to close schools that do not meet required standards. Charter schools can be authorized by a state board of education, a state university, community college, or local district.

How are online charter schools funded?

Charter schools, including online options like National Heritage Online Academy, are tuition-free. They receive public funding based on their number of students, and receive grants to help with some start-up costs. Many charter schools raise funds to help with other expenses. Charter schools are also eligible for federal funding for programs like Title I and Special Education.

Are online charter school teachers credentialed?

National Heritage Online Academy recruits teachers who are credentialed properly.

What technology do online schools require?

At minimum, our online school requires every student to have a working laptop, which we can provide, and a high-speed internet connection, which families are responsible to provide. Some additional functionality and accessories may be required or suggested, depending on your child's grade level and/or class. Students and families will receive communication in advance of any specific technology requirements. If you need troubleshooting assistance, call 877-642-7471 and select option 2.

Do students graduate from an online school with a high school diploma?

Yes! All students who graduate from our online school will receive a high school diploma.

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