Highly gifted children are often undeserved by public schools1. In fact, a nationwide study concludes that more than 50% of gifted students work below their ability level in public school settings2.
As parents and teachers of gifted students, we strive to help fulfill their unique socio-emotional and intellectual needs. Gifted adolescents are more likely than others to experience depression and to report socio-emotional struggles3. Some may even hide their abilities in exchange for a sense of belonging. At the same time, grade acceleration may not be appropriate or sufficient.
Online learning offers gifted students an opportunity to work at a higher level while networking with like-minded students and teachers. Students can enroll part-time or full-time in online high schools and online colleges. For many, these institutions have become treasured havens from ordinary schooling.
Online options for gifted youth: Universities and high schools
Many highly-selective universities have started offering online courses for adult learners. Although they may not advertise that high school students are eligible to participate, such universities may work with gifted youth on a case-by-case basis. In some states, work completed through a university may be used to fulfill high school credit hours.
Other online schools are exclusively dedicated to gifted children. Most notably, Stanford University has launched Stanford Online High School, a degree-granting program designed to challenge students intellectually until they are socially and emotionally ready to enter college. The program is not limited to students in grades 9-12; younger children may also participate.
However, Stanford Online High School does not fit every family’s budget. See the list below for links to additional online learning opportunities for gifted students. Each of the programs below is accredited by government-recognized accrediting organizations.
Links to online programs for the gifted:
References
- Woolfolk, A. (2004). Educational Psychology. New York: Pearson and AB.
- Tomlinson-Keasey, C. (1990). Developing our intellectual resources for the 21st century: Educating the gifted. Journal of Educational Psychology, 82, 442-455.
- Berk, L. (2002). Infants, Children, and Adolescents. Boston: Allyn & Bacon.
