How Does JMHS Compare to Traditional High School?

Online schools have become a popular option over the past few years, providing a lot of advantages for the right learners. Despite this, many families have a lot of questions about the differences between JMHS and traditional high schools, and which they should choose for their child. Here are some answers to help you make the right decision for your family.

What is the difference between JMHS and a traditional school?

James Madison High School is very different from traditional brick-and-mortar schools, like starting with the fact that it is completely online with no in-person instruction. All classes are conducted online, by real instructors, so you never have to step foot in a traditional classroom. You also have the option of studying all year long, unlike public schools which close during the summer months.

There are some similarities, though. Because JMHS is an accredited high school both, you can be sure you’re receiving a quality education that has met some of the strictest, highest standards available for education.

James Madison High School is nationally accredited by both Cognia and the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). Cognia Accreditation is a designation of quality recognized around the world. It is awarded by three regional accrediting bodies: the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement (NCA CASI), the Northwest Accreditation Commission (NWAC), and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS CASI). Together, these organizations have been accrediting institutions for more than 125 years.

What makes JMHS different?

JMHS is a different type of online school. Where some schools may make you follow a set daily schedule, you don’t have to do that with JMHS. You have the ability to choose how many hours per day you study and which subjects. Some students like to focus on one or two courses at a time, really focusing on the material until they’re sure they’ve mastered it before moving onto a new subject. Other students like taking on challenges, studying as many subjects as possible at a time. Whichever option is best for you, it’s your choice to make. There are no deadlines, so you work entirely at your own pace and attempt exams when you feel confident enough to take them on.

If you’re a particularly goal-oriented student who knows what you’d like to pursue in the future, JMHS offers two specialized tracks of study in addition to a general high school program. For those looking for career experience, the Career Pathways track allows students to start developing their professional skills by earning a career certificate while working towards earning their high school diploma. Or, if you’re a student looking to begin college after graduating from high school, you may want to opt into the College Prep Diploma Program. This program offers more rigorous coursework that can help prepare you with the skills and discipline needed for college-level classes.

What are the benefits of JMHS?

Because everything at JMHS is self-paced, our programs are designed to work with the individual student in mind. Not all students are alike in their ability and lifestyle, so JMHS tries to make quality, affordable education accessible no matter what someone’s situation is. This flexibility makes learning convenient for those students who may face certain obstacles.

Students who deal with chronic illness don’t have to worry about missing time from school because of ill health or medical appointments. Children from military families don’t have to worry about switching schools frequently, starting new every few years. Other students may need to work in order to help family or fulfill personal goals. Self-paced learning means they can adapt their studies to their schedules. Other students just might get bored in traditional classroom settings. Classes aren’t dependent on age requirements, so younger students have the option to work ahead in higher level courses.

JMHS also offers open admissions, so anyone can start their online learning journey at any point throughout the year. You don’t have to meet enrollment deadlines or worry about starting a class that has already begun. And, if you’ve already started high school, you also may be able to transfer some of your credits into JMHS, allowing you to keep the credit you’ve earned for work you’ve already completed. Whatever your situation is, JMHS can help you balance your schoolwork and your life.

Study on your terms

If you’re ready to start learning your way, when you want, call a James Madison High School Admissions Specialist at , or enroll online today.