Myth Versus Truth: Who's Right?
In the State of Pennsylvania, there has been continuous debate regarding the validity of cyber-charter schools. In this article, we will discuss the "Myth Versus Truth" debate about cyber schools.
Myth: "Cyber-Charter Schools are not real schools."
Truth: The SusQ-Cyber Charter School IS a real school. The SusQ-Cyber Charter School is chartered by The Pennsylvania Department of Education and is required to abide by the same rules and regulations as all other public schools in the state. Upon graduating, each student receives a high school diploma recognized by The Pennsylvania Department of Education with the same rights and privileges as a graduate of any other high school in the state.
Myth: "You only attend school when you want to."
Truth: Students of the SusQ-Cyber Charter School are required to attend all scheduled days within the 180-day school year calendar. In addition, students are required to spend 5.5 hours daily working on their classes and assignments. Our teachers, monitors and attendance clerk carefully track student attendance daily to ensure that each student is in compliance with state requirements regarding attendance.
Myth: "My school district must approve my attending a cyber-charter school."
Truth: School Districts do not have the authority to tell you that you cannot attend a cyber-charter school. Each district is required by law to pay your tuition while you are a student at the cyber-charter school. It is your tax dollars that are funding the district.
Myth: "Colleges and universities do not recognize cyber-charter school graduates."
Truth: Public and private universities and colleges accept cyber-charter school graduates who meet their admission requirements. The cyber-charter school environment prepares students to be responsible, independent, self-motivated learners. Currently, universities and colleges are blending traditional classroom teaching with online programs to deliver their courses. Since cyber-charter school students learn online, they are prepared as well or better than students who have only been exposed to the traditional brick and mortar setting. Over the years, we have had students accepted at the following institutes of higher learning: Arizona State University, Alvernia University, Geneva College, Temple University, Mansfield University of Pennsylvania, Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania, Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania, Clarion University of Pennsylvania, Wilkes University, Grove City College, Lycoming College, Pennsylvania College of Technology and University of Phoenix.
Myth: "There is no graduation ceremony."
Truth: The SusQ-Cyber Charter School conducts graduation ceremonies for graduating students, family and friends. Each student wears a cap and gown, and receives a diploma that is recognized by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, just like every other student in a traditional setting.
Myth: "Cyber-charter schools are an easy way out, and the students have no accountability."
Truth: Actually, a cyber-charter school student has MORE responsibility than a traditional student. Each cyber-charter school student must keep a rigid schedule to make sure schoolwork is done each school day and maintain contact with teachers regularly. If a student is having difficulty, it is his or her responsibility to contact their teacher immediately so that the issue can be addressed. All students are held accountable for their attendance, submitting assignments on time, internet usage on loaned school equipment, and participation in online group sessions.
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