Myths about Online Schools

MYTH: Students who attend online schools lack socialization and social skills.

FACT: Students at the Texas Online Preparatory School have the opportunity to participate in many academic and social outings. These outings may include trips to museums, skate parks, zoos, parks, and other community destinations. We also encourage students to participate in clubs.

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MYTH: Students spend all day staring at a computer.

FACT: While attendance, planning, and assessment are all recorded online, only about 50 percent of the lessons for grades 3—8 are taught online. The rest of the K12 curriculum relies on printed and/or hands-on materials, including beautifully crafted textbooks, paint, rocks, and microscopes.*

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MYTH: Attending the Texas Online Preparatory School is a part-time job.

FACT: Students will need to spend about six hours on schoolwork each day, depending on grade level. Dedicated Learning Coach time will vary by grade as well, with younger children needing more guidance, and older students working more independently.

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MYTH: Online schools don’t meet the curriculum requirements for public schools.

FACT: The Texas Online Preparatory School is a public school that happens to operate outside a traditional classroom. As public school students, your children will be expected to spend a certain amount of time each day engaged in schoolwork. They will also be required to take standardized tests mandated by the state of Texas.

* Course materials vary by course. Please check with TOPS staff to see what offline course materials are provided.