Frequently Asked Questions

 

Why create GLBTQ Online High School?

What if I'm not out yet, even to my family?

When will the school open?

How do I apply to be a student at GLBTQ Online HS?

How can I become a teacher for GLBTQ Online HS?

How does a virtual school work?

What makes this online school unique?

Where do the students and teachers come from?

What if I'm older than "normal" high school age?


Why create GLBTQ Online High School?

 

(This brief essay by Executive Director David Glick originally appeared as a newsletter article in January 2009.)

Whose choice is it?

The enthusiasm for GLBTQ Online High School continues to be widespread and extraordinary! We are grateful for all the support and interest we have received in the two months since we announced our plans.

There are a few people - okay, maybe more than a few - that are somewhat skeptical. Each in their own way, they ask, "Why do we need such a school? Doesn't that segregate kids?" Some are less kind: "Shouldn't these kids get used to getting teased? That's the way of the world." There are many ways to answer these questions. These discussions recently played out in Chicago in a way that resulted in the cancellation of the GLBT high school that had been planned.

Let's look at that situation. Some - but not all - of the GLBT community felt that GLBT kids would benefit from a separate school. Kids and families described the challenges of being GLBT in a "regular" school. Others described a reasonable comfort level in their schools and the desire not to be segregated. No one should be surprised that the GLBT community, like any other community, has multiple perspectives on an issue such as this. But whose choice should it be?

In Chicago, it became the choice of the bureaucracy of Chicago Public Schools. What happened to those kids who wanted or needed a safer place to go to school? Those who are harassed on a daily basis? Those who desperately wanted a place they could call their own where they knew they would be safe?

They didn't get it. They never even got the option. That's exactly why GLBTQ Online High School is critical. GLBTQ Online High School puts the choice in the hands of the families - not the community and not the bureaucracy of a public school system. When we're up and running next fall, kids won't need to wait for years for safe schools while their communities debate the issues.

We strongly support the efforts of GLSEN, Safe Schools Coalition and others who work hard to make "regular" schools more accepting places for GLBT youth. We believe that such work doesn't compete with our approach, but complements it.

We look forward to the day when our school can close its virtual doors because all schools, urban, suburban and rural, understand the needs of GLBT kids and thoroughly support them during the often difficult time of adolescence.

Until that time, GLBTQ Online High School will exist to provide that safe, affirming place for kids everywhere looking for a high quality education in a safe community. No student deserves anything less.

 

What if I'm not out yet, even to my family?

We can help. Our staff can help you and your family through the coming out process by working first with you, then progressing with family members in whatever way makes the most sense for your situation. Although naturally we hope you'll join our school as we work together, there is no obligation or fee for this assistance.

 

When will the school open?

The school will open to serve students on January 25, 2010.

How do I apply to be a student at GLBTQ Online HS?

Student applications are now available. Please see the Admissions page.

How can I become a teacher for GLBTQ Online HS?

Most initial staff has been hired. For a current listing of available positions, please see the Faculty page.

How does a virtual school work?

Students and teachers use a robust suite of online communication tools to share information, ask questions and access curriculum. Online curriculum uses video, text, animations and other multimedia to present and assess content. Teachers provide guidance, answer questions, administer oral exams over the phone, and otherwise provide a wide range of assistance.

Students can work from home or anywhere else there is access to the Internet. Although some activities are done in "real time," most activities and assessments allow the student to complete them at anytime. Students can work at their own pace, on their own schedule and from wherever they choose.

What makes this online school unique?

Our school is a safe and supportive learning community for all GLBTQ students. Our curriculum s GLBTQ-friendly and acknowledges the contributions of GLBTQ individuals in all fields of study. We provide support services and connect students and families to additional community resources to serve a wide range of social, medical and legal needs. We understand and embrace the challenges of students and families as they move through the often-difficult time of GLBTQ adolescence.

Where do the students and teachers come from?

Potentially, all over the world. As a private online school, we can easily cross the state and national boundaries that limit traditional public schools. We hire only like-minded teachers excited about working with GLBTQ students from around the world. Students from will be able to share regional and cultural perspectives as they learn.

What if I'm older than "normal" high school age?

Not a problem. There is no age limit, and we enthusiastically welcome those with more years of life experience to our classes and discussions! We offer a full high school diploma - not a GED.