Virtual schooling has become an increasingly popular education option for many families. Two of the biggest players in K-12 online learning are Florida Virtual School (FLVS) and Connections Academy. If you’re considering enrolling your child in either one, it helps to understand their differences.
This comprehensive guide examines the pros and cons of FLVS versus Connections Academy to help you determine the best online school choice for your student and family.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Aspects | FLVS | Connections Academy |
| Cost | Tuition-free | Mostly tuition-free |
| Schedule | Self-paced, flexible | Structured school calendar |
| Enrollment | Open, no application | Must apply and be accepted |
| Instruction | Independent learning | Teacher-led live classes |
| Curriculum | Wide course selection | More limited offerings |
| Technology | Student provided | School provided |
| Support | Minimal | Extensive resources |
| Socialization | Very limited | School activities offered |
| Best For | Self-motivated learners | Students needing more oversight |
Overview of Florida Virtual School (FLVS)
FLVS is an online public school district operated by the state of Florida. Here’s an introduction to their program:
- Public Virtual School: Serves students nationwide in grades K-12 for free.
- Customizable Programs: Offers individual courses or full-time school options.
- Teacher-Led: Certified FLVS teachers provide instruction and support.
- Flexible Scheduling: Students can learn at their own pace year-round.
- NCAA Approved: Meets requirements for athletic eligibility.
Pros of FLVS
- Cost: As a public school, FLVS has no tuition as funding comes from the state of Florida.
- Transferable Credits: Credits easily transfer to other public and private schools.
- Flexible Pacing: Students can work ahead or take more time as needed since it’s asynchronous.
- Course Variety: Offers over 190 courses including AP, honors, electives, and CTE.
Cons of FLVS
- Limited Support: Minimal technical support. Can be frustrating for younger students.
- Self-Motivation Required: Students must be committed to logging in and staying on pace daily.
- Easy to Fall Behind: Lack of live instruction makes catching up difficult if students don’t stay on track.
- Minimal Socialization: Few opportunities to interact with classmates.
Overview of Connections Academy
Connections Academy is a tuition-free virtual charter school provider. Here are the basics:
- Charter Schools: Operates accredited online charter schools in many states.
- Live Online Classes: Daily real-time lessons with teachers over web conferencing.
- Structured Curriculum: Provides textbooks, supplies. Follows set class schedule.
- State-Certified Teachers: All teachers are fully certified in their subject area.
- Activities: Offers clubs, events and field trips for socialization.
Pros of Connections Academy
- Real-Time Instruction: Daily live classes provide better teacher interaction.
- Structured Routine: Clear school schedule keeps students on track.
- Supports Provided: Tech support, guidance counselors, tutors.
- Social Interaction: In-person activities and field trips available.
Cons of Connections Academy
- Must Apply: Have to be accepted and spots are limited depending on state.
- Local Attendance: Some states require testing be done at physical locations.
- Less Flexibility: Adhering to a school schedule provides less freedom.
- Potential Tuition: A few locations charge tuition if out of district.
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Key Differences Between FLVS And Connections Academy
- Comparing Academics and Curriculum
A big consideration when choosing an online school is the quality and delivery of the academics and curriculum. Here’s how FLVS and Connections Academy compare:
Academics
FLVS: All core subjects plus diverse electives. Over 190 total courses available. Offers honors/AP.
Connections: Covers core subjects. Limited electives. Fewer AP/honors for high school.
FLVS provides a much broader course selection with more higher level options. Connections has the basics covered but less variety.
Curriculum
FLVS: Independent online learning with instructional videos. Materials provided.
Connections: Traditional textbooks. Teacher-led live instruction. More structured.
The self-guided FLVS model promotes student autonomy but can be challenging. Connections provides more teacher interaction and oversight.
Grading
FLVS: Assignments graded automatically online. Feedback within 24 hours.
Connections: Teachers grade work and provide feedback during live classes.
Automated grading through FLVS allows instant results but less nuanced feedback. Connections teachers provide personalized assessments.
Teacher Interaction
FLVS: Email, call/text, limited live sessions available. More independent study.
Connections: Daily live instruction and office hours with teachers. More interaction.
Connections Academy provides significantly more daily face-to-face academic interaction with certified teachers.
- Operations and Logistics
There are also key differences in how the schools operate when it comes to schedules, enrollment, and technology:
Schedule
FLVS: Learn on your own schedule year-round. Flexible pacing.
Connections: Structured school schedule September through May.
FLVS allows students to learn at their own pace while Connections follows a traditional school year calendar.
Watch this review video:
Enrollment
FLVS: Open enrollment with no application required.
Connections: Must apply and be accepted with limited space per state.
As a public school, FLVS offers open enrollment to any student. Connections operates like a charter with an application process.
Technology
FLVS: Student provides computer and internet access. Minimal tech support offered.
Connections: Loans computer, printer, supplies. Provides IT support.
Connections Academy supplies the necessary technology and technical help, while FLVS leaves it up to families.
- Cost Comparison
Affordability is often a major factor when choosing a virtual school. Here’s an overview of costs for each program:
FLVS
As a public school, FLVS charges no tuition or fees. Some AP exams and elective courses may have associated fees. Families provide their own hardware, internet, and supplies.
Connections Academy
Connections operates tuition-free charter schools, but some locations charge tuition for out-of-district enrollments. The school loans computers and supplies. Internet access is needed.
For most students, both FLVS and Connections Academy provide tuition-free schooling. ButConnections may charge tuition depending on your state and district, while FLVS is always free as a public school.
Also Read: Comparison Between Kumon And Huntington Learning Center.
Choosing the Right Fit
When picking between FLVS and Connections Academy, keep these key differences in mind:
- FLVS offers maximum schedule flexibility while Connections provides more structure.
- Connections gives students more teacher interaction through live classes.
- FLVS has a wider academic course selection available.
- Connections furnishes more student resources and support.
- FLVS is completely free with open enrollment, while some Connections schools charge tuition.
Consider your child’s learning style and needs to determine if the self-directed FLVS model or teacher-guided Connections program suits them better. Tour both schools to get a hands-on feel for the experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Still trying to choose between FLVS and Connections Academy? Here are some answers to commonly asked questions:
Yes, Florida Connections Academy is a fully legitimate tuition-free public charter school authorized by Lake Wales Charter System. It is accredited and staffed by state-certified teachers.
Yes, Florida Connections Academy is accredited by Cognia, formerly AdvancED. It meets curriculum standards and education requirements to be an accredited virtual public school.
No, while FLVS is administered by the state of Florida it offers its online courses and programs to students nationwide in grades K-12. There are no geographic restrictions.
As public school teachers, Connections Academy instructors in Florida make between $40,000 to $50,000+ on average based on education and experience, comparable to traditional public school salary ranges.
Final Thought
When it comes down to picking an established online school program like FLVS or Connections Academy, you can’t go wrong with either highly-rated option. Both are tuition-free, accredited, and staffed by certified teachers.
Look at your child’s learning preferences, your schedule flexibility, need for structure, and enrollment requirements in your state. Get input from your student too. Tour both virtual schools before deciding.
With an engaging curriculum and supportive online learning environment, an online school like FLVS or Connections Academy can provide the right education alternative to help your child thrive academically and developmentally.