What is an Online School?

A charter school is a tuition-free public school that operates independently from the local school district. Charter schools meet all federal, state, and local education, health, and safety requirements and are held accountable by an authorizer to meet high academic and operational standards. This oversight, combined with the flexibility to design curriculum and programs, helps schools provide a high-quality education for every student.

An online school delivers the full classroom experience from home. At PrepNet Virtual Academy students learn from credentialed teachers using the same research-backed curriculum as NHA's network of 100+ in-person schools, adapted for an online environment. Families choose between two learning models: Live Online, where students attend scheduled classes led by teachers, and Self-Paced, where students work through coursework on their own schedule with weekly teacher support.

Charter schools, including online schools, are tuition-free. They receive public funding based on the number of students enrolled. Charter schools are also eligible for federal funding for programs like Title I and special education, and many raise additional funds for other expenses.

Online charter schools can operate independently or through a management organization. National Heritage Academies® (NHA®) provides central support to PrepNet Virtual Academy, including curriculum, resources, and operational help, so the school team can focus on teaching and learning. At the local level, the school is governed by its own Board of Directors, who provide guidance and oversight to the principal.

An authorizer monitors a charter school's academic performance, finances, and organizational stability, and has the authority to close schools that don't meet required standards. Authorizers can be a state board of education, a state university, a community college, or a local district.

The biggest difference is where learning happens, not what students learn. Online students follow the same curriculum and are held to the same expectations, but they learn from home rather than a classroom. That flexibility suits families who travel, students with health needs, and students who do their best work outside a traditional setting. Students still have live instruction, teacher feedback, clubs, and electives, and high school students still work toward college and career plans.

Charter schools, including online schools, are tuition-free. They receive public funding based on the number of students enrolled. Charter schools are also eligible for federal funding for programs like Title I and special education, and many raise additional funds for other expenses.

Yes. PrepNet Virtual hires credentialed teachers who provide instruction, feedback, and academic guidance through live classes, virtual open office hours, and ongoing communication with students and families.

Every student needs a working laptop and a high-speed internet connection. We provide a device when a family needs one, along with technical support to help you get set up and stay connected. Families are responsible for providing internet access. Some classes or grade levels may require additional accessories, and we'll let you know in advance if anything else is needed.

Yes. Students who complete graduation requirements at PrepNet Virtual Academy receive a high school diploma, the same as students graduating from any public high school.

Required academic instruction is delivered online, but learning isn't limited to a screen. Students connect through clubs built around shared interests. High school students complete at least 60 hours of community service, which happens in their own communities.