As more students turn to flexible learning options, online high school programs have grown significantly in popularity. However, many parents and students still ask an important question:
Do online high schools follow state or national curriculum standards?
The answer is: Yes—legitimate online high schools follow rigorous academic standards, either set by the state or aligned with nationally recognized frameworks. In this article, we’ll explain how these standards work, why they matter, and what to look for when choosing an online program.
What Are High School Curriculum Standards?
High school curriculum standards are educational benchmarks established by state departments of education or national organizations. These standards define what students should know and be able to do in each subject area by the end of each grade level.
Common frameworks include:
- State Standards– Each U.S. state outlines its own set of learning expectations. For example, Texas uses the TEKS (Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills), while California uses the California Common Core State Standards.
- National Standards– Many online high school curriculum models are based on the Common Core State Standards (CCSS), which provide consistent learning goals in math and English across participating states.
Do Online High Schools Use These Standards?
Accredited online high schools design their courses to meet or exceed state or national curriculum standards. This ensures students receive a quality education that mirrors what they would get in a traditional classroom—just with more flexibility.
Online high schools often incorporate:
- State-Aligned Core Courses(Math, English, Science, Social Studies)
- College Prep Electives
- Advanced Placement (AP) and Honors Courses
- Diagnostic Assessmentsto place students at the right level
If a student moves to another state or transfers to a traditional school, credits earned from an accredited online high school are often transferable, thanks to this alignment with recognized standards.
What to Look for in an Online High School Curriculum
When evaluating an online high school, check for the following:
- Curriculum Alignment: Look for language like “Common Core-aligned” or “meets state education standards.”
- Accreditation: Accreditation ensures the school’s curriculum has been reviewed by educational authorities.
- Qualified Teachers: Certified educators should be delivering instruction and providing feedback.
- Course Rigor: Reputable programs offer comprehensive materials, assessments, writing assignments, and projects—not just basic reading quizzes.
Why Curriculum Standards Matter
When an online high school curriculum follows formal standards, it offers several benefits:
- College Readiness: Students are better prepared for SATs, ACTs, and university-level courses.
- Diploma Recognition: Colleges and employers are more likely to recognize a high school diplomafrom a standards-aligned program.
- Transferability: Credits can be transferred to another school if needed.
- Career Preparation: Standards-based education includes essential real-world skills.
Yes, most online high schools that are accredited and reputable follow state or national curriculum standards. This alignment ensures students are receiving a well-rounded, academically valid education—one that prepares them for college, careers, and life.
If you’re exploring online high school options, be sure to review each program’s curriculum, verify its accreditation, and confirm its alignment with recognized high school curriculum standards.
Your education is an investment—make sure it’s built on a strong foundation.