Choosing the right online school is a big decision, and not all programs are the same. Asking the right questions can help you find the best fit for your child.
7 Questions to Ask an Online School Provider
7 Questions to Ask
- Who is teaching my child?
- How often are live classes offered?
- What kind of support is available?
- How flexible is the schedule?
- What does a typical day look like?
- How does the school build community?
- What support is there for my child specifically?
Why These Questions Matter
Online school should provide:
- Structure and accountability
- Teacher support
- Flexibility without isolation
👉 At Falcon View Online, we encourage families to ask questions, because the right fit matters.
Who is teaching my child?
In an online public school, this is one of the most important questions to ask.
At Falcon View Online, students are taught by licensed Minnesota teachers who provide instruction, guidance, and ongoing support. These teachers lead live classes, provide feedback on assignments, and regularly check in with students to ensure they are staying on track.
Unlike some online programs that are fully self-paced or rely heavily on parent-led instruction, Falcon View Online offers a teacher-led experience, where students are supported academically and personally.
Families can feel confident knowing their child is not learning alone, they are part of a school community with real educators who are invested in their success.
How often are live classes offered?How often are live classes offered?
Live instruction plays an important role in keeping students engaged and connected.
At Falcon View Online, students have access to regular live classes and teacher-led sessions, depending on their grade level and course schedule. These sessions provide opportunities for:
- Real-time instruction
- Asking questions
- Interacting with teachers and peers
- Building routine and structure
In addition to live classes, students also complete independent coursework, allowing for flexibility while still maintaining accountability.
This combination of live instruction and flexible learning time helps students stay engaged without feeling overwhelmed.
What kind of support is available?
Support is one of the biggest differences between online schools, and one of the most important factors in student success.
Falcon View Online provides a range of support services, including:
- Regular teacher check-ins
- Academic support and guidance
- School counseling and student support services
- Special education services for eligible students
- Communication with families to monitor progress
Students are not expected to navigate online learning on their own. Instead, they are supported by a team that works to ensure they feel confident, connected, and capable.
How flexible is the schedule?
Flexibility is a major reason families explore online school, but it’s important to understand what that really means.
At Falcon View Online, students experience flexibility within structure:
- They have scheduled classes and expectations
- They can work at their own pace within those guidelines
- They have the ability to take breaks and manage their day more independently
This balance allows students to stay on track academically while also giving families the freedom to create a schedule that works for them.
It’s not a “log in whenever you want” model, but it is a more adaptable approach to learning.
What does a typical day look like?
A typical day at Falcon View Online includes a mix of:
- Live classes or teacher-led instruction
- Independent coursework
- Check-ins or support sessions
- Breaks and flexible time
No two students have the exact same schedule, but the goal is always the same: to provide structure, support, and flexibility.
Students are guided throughout the day and have access to help when they need it, while also building independence and time management skills.
How does the school build community?
One common concern about online school is whether students will feel connected, and that’s a valid question.
At Falcon View Online, building community is a priority. Students have opportunities to:
- Interact during live classes
- Connect with teachers regularly
- Participate in virtual clubs or activities
- Build relationships in a smaller, more personalized setting
Because of the school’s size and approach, students are more likely to feel known and supported, rather than lost in a large system.
Community may look different online, but it is still very real.
What support is there for my child specifically?
Every student is different, and the best online schools recognize that.
At Falcon View Online, support is personalized based on each student’s needs. This may include:
- Adjusted pacing or additional academic support
- Regular teacher communication and check-ins
- Counseling or student support services
- Special education services when applicable
The goal is not just to help students complete their work, but to help them grow, succeed, and feel confident in their learning environment.
Families are also part of this process, with ongoing communication and support from the school.
We know you have lots of questions about online education. We’re here to help!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all online schools in Minnesota the same?
No, and this is one of the most important things for families to understand.
While many online schools may appear similar at first, they can differ significantly in areas that directly impact your child’s experience:
- Level of teacher involvement (live instruction vs. self-guided learning)
- Student support services (counseling, special education, intervention)
- Flexibility vs. structure
- Class sizes and student-teacher connection
- Opportunities for community and engagement
Some programs are highly independent and require students (and parents) to manage most of the learning on their own. Others—like Falcon View Online—offer a more guided, relationship-based approach, where students are supported by teachers and staff throughout their day.
👉 Understanding these differences can help you choose a program that truly supports your child, not just academically, but personally.
How do I know if an online public school is the right fit for my child?
The best way to determine fit is to look at your child’s needs, personality, and learning style.
Online school may be a strong fit if your child:
- Needs more flexibility in their daily schedule
- Feels overwhelmed or disengaged in a traditional setting
- Benefits from a quieter, more focused environment
- Would thrive with more individual attention and support
- Is motivated by a balance of independence and structure
It’s also important to consider your family’s role. While parents are not expected to teach, they do play a supportive role in helping students stay organized and engaged, especially for younger learners.
At Falcon View Online, we work closely with families to determine fit and ensure students are set up for success from day one.
Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decision you’ll make. If you are exploring a tuition-free online public school option in Minnesota, Falcon View Online offers life instruction, flexible scheduling, personalized learning, college and career pathways, social-emotional support, a local, relationship-driven approach.
Online learning does not have to mean distant. It can mean focused, supportive, and intentional.