Top 10 Online Schools in California: The Pros and Cons

Choosing the right school for your child is a big decision, and with the growing popularity of virtual education, exploring the best online schools in California is a smart move. Online learning offers the flexibility to learn on your own time and in your own way, along with personalized attention and a safe environment, but it’s essential to find a program that fits your family’s needs.

Online education can still provide the quality and value of an in-person education.  Additionally, online schools provide a personalized learning experience with dedicated support for students, and many options remain tuition-free.

The enrollment process for California online schools typically requires proof of age, residency, and immunization records. To help, we’ve compiled a roundup of some of the state’s most notable online schools, highlighting their key features and things to consider.

Introduction to Online Learning

Online learning has transformed the educational landscape in California, making it possible for students to access high-quality education from the comfort of their own homes. Thanks to advancements in technology and widespread internet connectivity, online schools now offer a variety of tuition-free programs for students in grades TK-12.

Public schools across California have embraced online education, providing families with flexible options that fit their unique schedules and lifestyles. Online education in California provides access to diverse course options, including Advanced Placement and career-focused classes¹. With robust support systems and innovative learning tools, online schools empower students to learn, grow, and succeed in a digital environment tailored to their individual needs. Students in online programs like CalOPS, benefit from teacher support through scheduled LiveClasses, virtual office hours, phone calls and email communication, enhancing their learning experience and academic outcomes7.

Benefits of Online Education

The advantages of online education are making it an increasingly popular choice for families throughout California. One of the biggest benefits is flexibility—students can complete online courses from anywhere with a reliable internet connection, making it easier to balance school with family life, extracurricular activities, or part-time work³.

Online learning allows students to set their own pace, ensuring they have the time they need to master core courses and explore exciting electives. Certified teachers lead engaging lessons and provide personalized feedback, helping students stay motivated and on track. Additionally, the online learning model enhances students’ digital literacy, communication skills, and technology proficiency³.

Online courses give students repeated access to course materials, allowing them to review and reinforce their understanding as needed³. Virtual classes can also enhance time management skills, as students learn to organize their schedules and meet deadlines independently³. Students in online programs can collaborate with classmates through virtual group work and meetings, fostering teamwork and communication skills³.

Online education opens the door to a wide range of programs and courses that may not be available in traditional schools, giving students the chance to enroll in subjects that spark their curiosity and support their future goals³. With access to high quality education and a variety of learning opportunities, students can thrive in an online environment that adapts to their needs.

Top Online School Options in California

Note: There’s no one-size-fits-all! These schools aren’t listed in any particular order, each one has something unique to offer, and the “best” choice really depends on your family’s needs.

1. California Virtual Academies (CAVA)

California Virtual Academies (CAVA) is a tuition-free, WASC-accredited online public school serving students from TK through 12th grade4. Powered by Stride K12, it offers a structured, teacher-led curriculum with live instruction and personalized learning plans. CAVA stands out for its community engagement, including in-person events, field trips, and social-emotional learning programs. 

What CAVA Offers: 

Comprehensive Curriculum & College Prep: They offer a full TK-12 curriculum, including core subjects, world languages, and advanced/honors/AP courses. CAVA has a “CAVA2College” program, where students can earn up to 15 (college-level) units before graduating high school4. They also provide CTE (Career Technical Education) pathways and certifications to help students with job-related readiness4.

Personalized & Flexible Learning Styles: The virtual model allows students to learn at home or wherever there’s internet access. The learning style is a blend of live virtual classes (“Class Connect”), as well as offline work, and hands-on/in-person components (especially in younger grades)4.

Strong Support for Families / Learning Coaches: CAVA has a structured onboarding process, including orientations and one-on-one support for new students and families4. There is a role for “Learning Coaches” (usually for parents or caregivers) to help guide students, especially younger ones. The school offers resources to help Learning Coaches succeed4.

Social-Emotional Learning & Community Building: CAVA conducts regular, daily check-ins (not just academic, but social/emotional as well)4. They also offer a wide variety of extracurriculars (virtual and in-person) to help foster peer connections and more holistic development4.

Recognition & Awards: The CAVA NTHS chapter won the SIlver Star of Excellence Award for its excellence in Career & Technical Education and community involvement2. These kinds of external recognitions help validate CAVA’s effectiveness and commitment.

Things to Consider: The program requires significant parental involvement, which may be demanding for some families. Most of their events are held virtually, limiting face-to-face and in-person interactions, which can impact social development. While some students appreciate the absence of negative social environments, others miss the socialization that traditional schools offer.

2. Stanford Online High School

This selective, private school (affiliated with Stanford University) caters to academically gifted students grades 7-1211. It offers a rigorous, college-preparatory curriculum with live, seminar-style classes taught by instructors with advanced degrees. The school is known for its strong reputation for college placement11.

What Stanford Online High School Offers:

High Academic Rigor & Advanced Coursework: Students can take post-AP/university-level courses11. Stanford Online High School doesn’t just stop at AP, many courses go beyond. The class sizes are small and taught seminar-style via real-time video conference, facilitating deep discussion, critical thinking, and student interaction like a college class11. Class sizes are capped (i.e. for high school classes ~16; middle school even smaller) so that students can interact meaningfully with peers and instructors. Most classes meet live, in real time, often twice a week, which forces consistent engagement and enables immediate feedback. Students are also grouped and challenged according to their level, not just by age or grade11.

Faculty Expertise: Many instructors hold Ph.D’s in their field. For example, over 60% of teachers have this level of academic preparation11. That tends to raise the standards in how deeply content is taught and how rigorously students are assessed.

Global, Diverse & Motivated Student Body: The diversity adds richness to discussions, perspectives, and peer interactions. The school fosters a community of intellectually curious students who want to pursue advanced learning, often beyond what’s available locally11.

Flexible Enrollment Option: Students can enroll full-time, part-time, or just take individual courses11. This flexibility allows students to tailor their commitment depending on their needs.

Strong Support & Wellness Systems: Stanford Online High School provides academic advising, college counseling, and wellness & SEL support11. The school is intentional about not just academic growth, but emotional, psychological well-being too. There are in-person or hybrid meetups, summer residential opportunities, and events that help students connect beyond the screen11.

Credibility & Affiliation: Because Stanford Online High School is part of Stanford University’s Pre-Collegiate Studies, it carries prestige, which can help in recognition by colleges and tends to draw high-caliber students and teachers11. It is also a WASC-accredited institution11.

Things to Consider: It’s highly selective and comes with a significant tuition cost. Additionally, some students report that the school expects more effort, depth, and more critical thinking than many typical high schools. Grades are harder to come by because the standard is high11. The workload can be intense, especially for full-time students16. High standards can also lead to more “stress” or pressure to perform academically16. 

3. Laurel Springs School

Laurel Springs is a private, tuition-based online school for K-12 students, known for its flexible and individualized approach to learning. It offers a wide range of courses, including Honors, AP, and post-graduate options, and a flexible pacing model. The school emphasizes a personalized approach with a focus on student interests and provides extra support to help students stay on track academically6. 

What Laurel Springs Offers:

High Degree of Flexibility & Self-Paced Learning: The curriculum is self-paced and accessible 24/7, enabling students to work on their schedule, which helps accommodate travel, training, performance, or other commitments6. Students are also given “blackout dates” (up to 10 personal days per semester) during which students don’t have to do assignments, tests, or classes — which is especially useful for athletes, artists or students with special activities6. Laurel Springs also has a rolling enrollment, which means students can begin their studies at nearly any point in the year6.

Strong, College-Prep Curriculum: The school offers a large catalogue of college preparatory courses (over 230+ courses, including AP, Honors, world languages, and electives). They are one of the few fully online schools to offer the AP Capstone Diploma Program (which includes AP Seminar, AP Research) so students interested in rigorous/interdisciplinary research and writing can benefit17.

Accreditation & Recognition: Laurel Springs is WASC- and Cognia-accredited. They are also ranked among the top online high schools in the U.S., with strong academic and college prep ratings6.

Support for Specialized Learners: Laurel Springs has an athletic advisory and specialized support for student-athletes. They help with NCAA eligibility, course planning, and flexibility so athletic training/travel doesn’t conflict with school6. They offer dual enrollment (college credits) and earlier college counseling to help students transition and prepare6. 

Personalization, Teacher Expertise & Student Support: Teachers are highly qualified (many having a Master’s Degree or higher) and trained for online instruction18. Teachers also provide 1:1 support through academic counseling, college and career counseling, athletic advising, etc6. Their “student life” support includes live workshops, project/symposium-style courses, clubs, virtual and in-person meetups and trips, to foster community and social/emotional growth6.

Value & Reputation: Laurel Springs has a track record (since 1991) in online private schooling, giving them experience18. Students tend to score above national averages on standardized tests (SAT/ACT) and get admitted to many selective institutions18. They’ve increased offerings and staffed up (more teachers, expanding curriculum) to keep up with demand and continue refining offerings18.

Things to Consider: The highly flexible model requires a high degree of self-discipline from students to stay on track. Additionally, as a private school, Laurel Springs charges tuition (for full-time, high school students, tuition is ~$16,600 for the Academy Program)6. For families used to public school or lower-tuition options, this cost may be hard to justify. 

4. Connections Academy

Connections Academy is a network of tuition-free public schools that provide an engaging, online learning experience5. It offers a structured curriculum with live online sessions and materials provided to families5. The program focuses on community-building efforts through virtual clubs and in-person field trips. 

What Connections Academy Offers

Dual Enrollment Opportunities: High school students enrolled in Connections Academy at Springs have the unique opportunity to participate in dual enrollment programs with local community colleges: Mr. San Jacinto College and Barstow Community College5.

Individualized Learning Plans: Connections Academy emphasizes personalized education. Students collaborate with teachers and Learning Coaches to develop Individualized Learning Plans that cater to their unique strengths, challenges, and academic goals5. This approach ensures that each student receives the support they need to succeed.

Comprehensive Support Services: The school provides a range of support services to assist students and families. They have special education services that provide accommodations and support for students with IEPs5. Parental involvement is encouraged through their Learning Coaches Program, which has resources and guidance available to help parents and caregivers support their child’s education effectively5.

High Parent Satisfaction: According to the 2025 Parent Satisfaction Survey, 96% of parents agree that the curriculum is high-quality, and 97% find the teachers supportive5.

Things to Consider: The curriculum is more structured, which may be a constraint for families seeking complete schedule flexibility. Some parents have also reported that the workload can be overwhelming, with younger students receiving numerous assignments weekly. This structure may feel more like traditional schooling rather than a flexible online learning experience19.

5. California Online Public Schools (CalOPS)

California Online Public Schools (CalOPS) is a network of WASC-accredited, tuition-free public schools with a strong emphasis on a personalized approach7. It is known for its focus on independent study, allowing students to learn at their own pace. 

What California Online Public Schools Offers: 

Personalized Learning Experience: CalOPS emphasizes individualized attention, tailoring education to each student’s unique needs and learning pace. Teachers provide one-on-one attention, and the curriculum is designed to foster independence and responsibility7. This approach helps students stay on track and receive support they need when they need it. 

Comprehensive Curriculum Offerings: CalOPS provides a robust curriculum that aligns with California’s state standards, ensuring students receive a comprehensive education. It’s designed to foster independence and responsibility⁷ and includes a wide range of subjects and AP courses, preparing students for college and career readiness7.

Statewide Accessibility: CalOPS serves students across 32 counties in California, making it accessible to a diverse range of students throughout the state7. This widespread availability ensures that more families can benefit from the flexible and personalized education CalOPS has to offer.

College and Career Preparation: CalOPS offers a comprehensive selection of University of California and California State University A-G courses, equipping high school students with the skills and knowledge they need for college success7. This rigorous academic preparation ensures that students are well-prepared for post-secondary education and future careers.

Flexible Scheduling: The online format allows students to learn from home, offering flexibility that accommodates various lifestyles, including those of young athletes, performers, or students with medical conditions7.

Transparent and Organized Learning Platform: CalOPS utilizes a user-friendly learning management system that allows students and parents to access all lessons and assignments for the entire semester20. This transparency enables families to plan ahead and manage their schedules effectively.

Emphasis on Socialization: CalOPS helps students gain confidence, foster empathy and develop social skills that go beyond the classroom7. While they host a lot of virtual events like info sessions, webinars LiveClasses and clubs, they also host a variety of in-person events, which include commencement ceremonies for their high school students, prom, and regional festivals held throughout the year.

Social & Emotional Support: CalOPS provides counselors and emotional support services that look at the entire student as a whole and help them succeed. They offer Care Solace, a comprehensive mental health care coordination service, which is available to all students and their families6. Care Solace finds the necessary assistance for issues such as depression, anxiety, stress and more. It’s confidential and free of charge to CalOPS families. They also provide mental health workshops specifically for enrolled parents, guardians and caretakers, aiming to support them in fostering the positive mental health and social-emotional well-being of students6. CalOPS is also a proud member of the Capturing Kids’ Hearts community, where all of their teachers have received training to implement transformational processes rooted in social emotional learning competencies in their classrooms and in individualized learning environments6.

Things to Consider: As an independent study model, it may require a higher degree of parent involvement and a student who is self-motivated⁷. While there are opportunities for social and emotional support, there is more responsibility on families to foster in-person socialization activities. Though students can travel while attending the online school, CalOPS is only available to students who are residents in one of the 32 California counties. 

6. Method Schools

Method Schools is a charter school known for its unique, personalized approach to online education8. It offers a flexible schedule that can be tailored to individual needs. The school focuses on the quality and structure of each online class, with small classes and frequent check-ins to create a personalized, supportive environment8. It also has a strong emphasis on extracurricular activities and in–person social events.

What Methods Schools Offers: 

Dual Enrollment Opportunities: Method Schools offers a distinctive dual enrollment program through The Academy at Method Schools, allowing high school students to earn both a high school diploma and college credits simultaneously8. In partnership with College of the Canyons, students can earn up to 24 transferable credits via Zoom, preparing them for higher education and careers7. This program provides pathways in Business Entrepreneurship and the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC), aligning with UC and CSU requirements.

Mastery-Based Curriculum: Method employs a mastery-based approach, allowing students to progress upon demonstrating understanding, rather than adhering to traditional seat-time requirements8. This model supports personalized learning, enabling students to move at their own pace and focus on areas needing improvement.

Small Class Sizes and Personalized Attention: With an average student-teacher ratio or 12:1, Method ensures that students receive individualized attention8. Teachers provide tailored support through small classes, frequent check-ins, and personalized sessions, fostering deeper learning experiences8.

Flexible Learning Tracks: Method offers various learning tracks, including full-time online, part-time in-person, and hybrid models, accommodating diverse student needs and lifestyles8. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for students involved in extracurricular activities or those requiring a non-traditional learning environment.

Innovative Learning Tools: Students at Method have access to “Learning Tiles,” which are interactive modules designed to explore interests beyond the core curriculum, such as robotics, comics, drawing, and athletic performance8. These tools encourage creativity and self-directed learning, enhancing the educational experience.

Things to Consider: While it’s a public school, some aspects of its program may vary based on location¹⁰. The flexible model might not suit students who need a more rigid structure to stay on track¹⁰.

7. Excel Academy Charter School

Excel Academy is a tuition-free charter school that provides a customized education for students in various California counties15. It emphasizes a personalized approach and offers a diverse selection of courses, including a focus on career pathways. Graduates are well-prepared for college and future opportunities15.

What Excel Academy Offers

Dual Learning Paths – Personalized & Virtual: In the Personalized Path (TK-12) independent study model, parents or guardians serve as the primary educators, with oversight from a credentialed Teacher of Record (ToR)15. This path is ideal for families seeking a flexible, home-based learning environment. In the Virtual Path (K-8) model, students engage in live, teacher-led online classes five days a week, providing a structured and interactive experience15. This path suits families preferring a more traditional school schedule with direct education. 

Comprehensive Support Services: Excel Academy provides robust support to students and families. Regular meetings are scheduled with Teachers of Record to ensure academic progress is being made and to help address any challenges. Students also have access to counselors for college and career planning. There are also many opportunities for social engagement and skill development outside the classroom through extracurriculars. 

Accreditation and College Preparation: Excel Academy is WASC-accredited15. The curriculum includes AP courses and is designed to prepare students for college admissions and success21.

Things to Consider: The independence offered by the school requires active parental management of the educational funds and curriculum choices. With a student-teacher ratio of 23:1, Excel Academy has a higher ratio compared to the national average of 16:121. This may impact the amount of individual attention students receive, especially in an online learning environment. As an online charter school,. Excel Academy may offer fewer opportunities for in-person or extracurricular activities, which can be important for student social development and engagement.

8. Compass Charter Schools

Compass Charter Schools serves a diverse range of students, from gifted learners to military families and young athletes10. It is known for its flexible learning models, including online and homeschool options. The school provides a variety of support services and a curriculum that can be customized to fit individual needs. It ensures that students are well-prepared for their next steps, whether in college or career10.

What Compass Charter Schools Offers: 

Dual Learning Paths – Online & Home Study: The Online Learning Program (grades TK-12) provides live, synchronous classes with certified teachers, ensuring a structured and interactive learning experience10. The Options (Home Study) Program (grades TK-12) allows parents to take an active role as Learning Coaches, with guidance from Supervising Teachers, offering flexibility and personalized pacing10.

Comprehensive Support Services: The school has an English Language Development program, which provides assistance for English learners to achieve proficiency10. There are also tutoring and counseling services available, as well as SEL programs to foster emotional intelligence and resilience10.

Recognition & Community Engagement: Compass has been recognized for its excellence in education and community involvement. They are designated as a Purple Star School, supporting military-connected students. They are one of the few online AVID schools in the nation, promoting college readiness10. They also have a Scholar of the Month Program, which recognizes students for academic excellence, leadership, and virtual involvement10.

Things to Consider: The level of academic rigor can vary, and it’s essential for parents to actively participate in the curriculum planning to ensure their child is on track.

9. K12

K12 is a leading provider of online education for students in grades K-12, offering both tuition-free public school options and private programs13. It delivers a personalized learning experience through a mix of live classes, self-paced assignments and interactive tools, supporting diverse learners, including advanced students and those with special needs13. 

What K12 Offers: 

Comprehensive Curriculum with Physical Materials: K12 offers a curriculum for students in grades K-12, encompassing core subjects, electives, AP courses, and career-focused programs. This extensive range ensures that students receive a well-rounded education tailored to their academic needs and interests13.

Flexible Learning Model: The K12 platform provides a blend of live online instruction, self-paced assignments, and offline activities. The flexibility allows students to learn at their own pace, accommodating various learning styles and schedules.

Diverse Educational Offerings Beyond K-12: K12 provides online tutoring, credit recovery, career preparation, and professional development13. This broad spectrum of services caters to learners of all ages and backgrounds, making K12 a versatile educational provider.

Extracurricular Activities and Social Engagement: K12 provides opportunities for students to participate in extracurricular activities like clubs, events, and academic competitions13. These activities help students connect with peers and develop social skills in a virtual environment.

Things to Consider: Student success requires active parental involvement, reliable internet and devices, student self-discipline and the potential for limited social interaction. 

10. California Pacific Charter Schools (CalPac)

California Pacific Charter Schools is a network of charter schools offering personalized learning experiences. It provides a range of programs tailored to meet the needs of individual students. The schools boast a low student-teacher ratio, with some campuses maintaining a 7:1 ratio, allowing for more individualized attention14. 

What California Pacific Charter Schools Offers

Strong Academic Performance and College Preparation: CalPac’s Los Angeles Campus has received high ratings, with an overall grade of A- and a college preparation grade of B+. The school boasts a 90% graduation rate, including strong academic outcomes and effective college readiness programs22.

Purple Star School: CalPac is proud to support military-connected students and their families through flexible, personalized online learning. As a Purple Star School, they are committed to meeting the unique needs of military families and ensuring a smooth transition22.

Special Needs Accommodations: CalPac is committed to serving all students, including those with special needs. They partner with the Sonoma County Charter SELPA, and for students without identified special needs who are experiencing academic challenges, CalPac implements a multi-tiered approach to supporting students through the Student Success Team (SST) process22. SST provides research-based support/interventions at various levels based on each student’s needs within the general education environment. 

Community Building: CalPac students have opportunities to interact outside the classroom through various online events, field trips, and an annual online talent show22. They also have the ability to create their own clubs, sharing interests with other students under the guidance and direction of a faculty advisor22.

Teacher Support: Teachers are available to CalPac students during regular business hours. Each course has a weekly live session, which is held in real time. For extra help, students may sign up for online tutoring offered weekly by each teacher22. Teachers are accessible by email, phone and text message. Homeroom teachers work with students and parents to keep students on pace, making sure they’re completing work each week to stay on track22.

Things to Consider: The specific strengths and considerations may vary by campus and it’s essential to research each location individually. Students may also have limited face-to-face interactions, as most of their events are virtual.

Making the Right Decision

The right online school in California for your family depends on your child’s learning style, your family’s schedule, and your educational goals. 

Whether you prioritize a highly structured public school like CAVA, with scheduled class times in a traditional setting, a prestigious private school like Stanford Online High School, or a flexible, independent study program like California Online Public Schools, there is an option out there for you. 

Online students can structure their school day to fit their needs, balancing independent offline work and online lessons. Support and achievements continue throughout the school year in online programs, ensuring ongoing guidance and personalized care. We recommend researching each school’s curriculum, talking to current families, and considering what strengths and limitations are most important for your child’s success.

References:

1. K12 Inc. “About K12.” k12.com, https://www.k12.com/about-k12/.
2. Businesswire. “California Virtual Academies Wins National Award in Excellence.” https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220901005163/en/California-Virtual-Academies-Wins-National-Award-in-Excellence
3. Drexel University School of Education. “Benefits of Online and Virtual Learning.” drexel.edu, https://drexel.edu/soe/resources/student-teaching/advice/benefits-of-online-and-virtual-learning/.
4. California Virtual Academies “About Our School” https://cava.k12.com/about-our-school/, https://cava.k12.com/new-students/learning-coach-corner/, https://cava.k12.com/events-calendar/
5. Connections Academy. “About Connections Academy.” connectionsacademy.com, https://www.connectionsacademy.com/.
6. Laurel Springs School. “About Us.” laurelsprings.com, https://www.laurelsprings.com/. https://laurelsprings.com/about/why-laurel-springs/
7. California Online Public Schools. “About Us.” https://californiaops.org/, https://californiaops.org/who-we-are/, https://californiaops.org/k-12-online-public-school/.
8. Method Schools. “About Method Schools.” methodschools.org, https://methodschools.org/, 
9. Excel Academy Charter School. “About Us.” excelacademycharter.org,
10. Compass Charter Schools. “About Compass Charter Schools.” compasscharterschools.org, https://compasscharterschools.org/.
11. Stanford Online School. “About” https://ohs.stanford.edu/about#mission.
12. Compass Charter School. https://www.compasscharters.org/
13. K12. “About K12.” https://www.k12.com/, https://www.k12.com/about-k12/
14. California Pacific Charter Schools. “Why Choose CalPac.” https://www.cal-pacs.org/, https://www.cal-pacs.org/why-choose-calpac/
15. Niche. “Excel Academy Charter School.” https://www.niche.com/k12/excel-academy-charter-school-irvine-ca/
16. Niche. “Stanford Online High School.” https://www.niche.com/k12/stanford-online-high-school-redwood-city-ca/reviews/
17. PR Newswire. “Laurel Springs Becomes One of Select Online Schools Worldwide to Offer AP Capstone Diploma Program Certification.” https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/laurel-springs-school-becomes-one-of-select-online-schools-worldwide-to-offer-ap-capstone-diploma-program-certification-301605088.html
18. PR Newswire. “Laurel Springs School Improves Curriculum and Increases Staffing for 2022-23 Academic Year.” https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/laurel-springs-school-improves-curriculum-and-increases-staffing-for-2022-23-academic-year-301644278.html
19. Consumer Affairs. “Connections Academy Reviews.” https://www.consumeraffairs.com/education/connections-academy.html
20. Niche. “California Online Public Schools Northern California.” https://www.niche.com/k12/california-online-public-schools-northern-california-ripon-ca/reviews/
21. Niche. “Excel Academy Charter School.” https://www.niche.com/k12/excel-academy-charter-school-irvine-ca/
22. Niche. “California Pacific Charter Schools – Los Angeles.” https://www.niche.com/k12/california-pacific-charter-schools-los-angeles-costa-mesa-ca/