A graduating student of California Online Public Schools (CalOPS) begins their day like many other high school seniors—but with a unique set of experiences, reflections, and moments of personal growth. For those at CalOPS, the journey to graduation isn’t just about the lessons learned in textbooks. It’s about building resilience, discovering passions, and embracing the flexibility that online education offers.
Let’s take a look at what a day in the life of a California Online Public Schools graduate is like, especially during their final days of school, and explore the insights and inspirations they carry with them as they prepare for the next chapter.
Aizel’s Story
Hi! My name is Aizel Chua. I am a 12th-grade student at California Online Public Schools, and I have been with this school since 1st Grade. Apart from a quality curriculum and supportive teachers, I love the flexibility my school provides in terms of where and when I can study, allowing me to spend more time with my family, take convenient breaks, and learn at my own pace. While some days are harder or easier than others, here is my typical weekday as a graduating high school senior.
A Day In the Life of an Online 12th Grade Student
Starting the Day at My Own Pace
8:00 AM: Between 8 and 9:30 am, I wake up and get myself energized. I pray, fix my bed, get changed, and grab some breakfast. Sometimes my dad cooks early for the family, and sometimes I prepare my own meal. When I’m not too busy, I also take the time to read a page or two from a good book.
Planning and Live Classes
9:30 AM: I log in to my school account and check for any announcements. I survey what I need to do for the day, then start reading one of my lessons.
10:00 AM: I attend my Social Studies or English Live Class, depending on which is scheduled for the day. I enjoy hearing from my teachers, interacting with my classmates, and reviewing the material for the week. To help us connect to what we’re studying, the teachers guide us through a variety of activities, such as watching related videos, reading aloud excerpts, seeing concepts in current affairs, freewriting, reflecting on themes, and participating in competitive non-graded quizzes. Regardless of how far I am into the course or the week’s assignments, I always learn something new in these sessions.
Independent Study Time
11:00 AM: After taking a break, I continue with my other subjects. I try to complete the reading-heavy lesson first, then do the activity-based lessons or assignments afterwards. Sometimes I finish my readings earlier in the week, so I have more time to focus on completing my essays, research projects, and art assignments. I study at a desk indoors or in the backyard.
Afternoons with Family and Flexibility
2:00 PM: In the afternoon, I have lunch with my family and take a 30-minute to one-hour nap. Afterwards, I continue with my coursework.
5:00 PM: By this time, I wrap up my lessons or do additional study, depending on how I worked effectively throughout the day.
Evenings to Recharge
Evenings: I enjoy listening to music, watching a movie, and spending time with family and friends. Recently, I have also been getting back into the routine of going for a walk before having dinner. Before closing the day, I prepare my clothes for the following morning.
What I’ve Learned at CalOPS
Weekdays for me are busy and exciting. My school provides me with many opportunities to improve my academic skills, share my insights, and reflect on my progress at my own pace.
At CalOPS, I’ve learned that to be successful at anything, you need to show up, be proactive, and keep going. There are days when I’m late, I struggle, I get confused, and I make mistakes, but I know that I am in charge of my learning and I can get back up and find a solution. That can mean showing myself some kindness, taking a break, reviewing instructions, doing a quick search, and/or reaching out to my teacher for clarification.
After high school, I hope to carry what I’ve learned at CalOPS with me as I enter college and pursue a business career.
Thinking About Online School?
If you’re considering online school, we hope Aziel’s experience shows how empowering and flexible it can be. Whether you’re passionate about academics, need a more customized schedule, or just want a supportive learning space—CalOPS makes it possible. Learn more by joining a virtual info session, scheduling a call, or see how to enroll today.
