What Students (and Parents) Can Do to Prepare for the Next Grade Level
Helpful Tips for Online Learners at iSchool Virtual Academy of Ohio
Whether you’re entering high school, or just continuing your journey at iSchool Virtual Academy of Ohio, the transition to a new grade is a big deal. Each year comes with new challenges, new expectations, and new opportunities. But the good news? You don’t have to go in unprepared.
Here are a few practical tips for students and parents to make the move into the next grade level as smooth and successful as possible.
1. Reflect on This Year
Before looking ahead, it’s worth taking a few minutes to look back. What subjects did you enjoy? Where did you grow the most? Where did you struggle? These answers can help you focus your attention and set meaningful goals for the next school year.
Parent Tip: Ask your student what they feel proud of—and what they’d like to do differently. It can spark a helpful conversation.
2. Set Up a Clean, Ready to Go Workspace
Having a designated space for online school can make a big difference in focus and productivity. Now’s a great time to tidy up your desk, organize your computer files, and make sure your internet and tech tools are ready for a fresh start.
Student Tip: Create a simple folder system for each subject on your desktop or in your cloud storage. Staying organized from day one helps everything run smoother.
3. Review Skills
You don’t have to study all summer, but brushing up on core skills especially in math, reading, and writing can really help. A quick review of what you learned last year can keep those skills sharp and make you feel more confident when new material starts rolling in.
Parent Tip: Encourage your student to revisit a few lessons from the previous grade or use online tools for a little summer review.
4. Establish a Routine That Works
Online school offers flexibility, but routines still matter. Start thinking about what kind of daily schedule helps your student stay focused, productive, and balanced. Some students work best early in the day others need more breaks between subjects.
Student Tip: Experiment with different routines now so you can hit the ground running when school starts.
5. Connect With Teachers Early On
At iSchool, your teachers are here to support you—not just academically, but with time management, goal setting, and more. Don’t wait until you’re stuck to reach out. The earlier you connect, the easier it is to build those relationships.
Parent Tip: Encourage your student to check in with teachers during the first few weeks. It sets a positive tone for the year.
6. Get Involved and Stay Connected
Just because school is online doesn’t mean you’re in it alone. iSchool Virtual Academy of Ohio offers clubs, online events, and other ways for students to connect with their peers. Being involved can boost motivation and help students feel like part of the school community.
Student Tip: Try joining a new club or attending a virtual event it’s a great way to make friends and explore new interests.
A new grade means new challenges, but also a fresh opportunity to grow, learn, and discover what you're capable of. With a little reflection, planning, and support, students at iSchool Virtual Academy of Ohio can step confidently into the next chapter of their academic journey.
You don’t have to have it all figured out just take the first step forward.
