Nylah G.

As a 10th grader during her first year in Georgia Connections Academy, I would say that most of these bad reviews are from lazy people who thought that A) They could mosey their way out of school by doing it online, or B) All of the responsibility should be placed on the teachers. If you are in 8th grade or less, YOUR PARENTS should be working with you, at least making an effort to understand the material; however, if you are in high school, the responsibility is placed on YOU. If this is news to you, that is completely your fault because you chose not to read the handbook, the guidelines, and the resources placed in the virtual library. If you are not self-disciplined, then this is really not the school for you. Go to regular school where they will hold your hand the majority of the way then drop you off at college where you will soon realize that independence is inescapable.

Anyway, the work load is normal. One lesson a day per class, like regular school. The difference is that you are able to go back to previous concepts if you forget anything or need a refresher. If you need extra resources, as I said, you can always look in the library. Aside from that, the teachers are there to help you everyday except Wednesday from 11am-12pm, and there are plenty of programs like Khan Academy and Ck12 that are made for students like those at Connections Academy. You can also email and call the teachers, which usually warrant a speedy reply. The time it takes you to finish lessons solely depends on you. Some people can finish them in 20 minutes while others take up to 2 hours. Tests take however long you need with the exception of history (they give you a timer for 50 minutes or an hour), and there is something called a MESSAGE BOARD, where there are plenty of reviewing materials and explanations for everything.

The teachers, in my opinion, try the best they can. You can find all of the teachers' educational history and experience (by law), and they only call cheater if absolutely necessary, like if you complete all of your lessons in an hour and have perfect scores. I do think that this varies by state, however, so you should look into specifics when you're wanting to know more about Connections.

My biggest issue with the program, though, is the "work at your own pace", which is usually what catches everyone's attention. I think the slogan should be "work AHEAD at your own pace" because the moment you slip, it gets harder and harder to catch up. I also don't think that you should wait until August to enroll because you will most likely not get in quickly enough to start off on track. Apply early in the summer or late in the school year before you plan on starting. If you're looking to go right now, WAIT UNTIL THE SECOND SEMESTER APPLICATIONS OPEN unless you want 50 overdue lessons per class. Trust me.

All in all, if you utilize your resources, actually do your work, and plan ahead, you should be fine.