Quaker Digital Academy - A public Online School for K-12
Apply TodayOhio families have more online school options than ever, and they don’t all work the same way. Some are tuition-free public schools, some are private and charge tuition, and some are course providers rather than full schools. The right choice depends on your student, your family’s schedule and what you need the school to deliver. This checklist will help you compare any Ohio online school, including ours, on the things that matter most.
Before comparing individual schools, it helps to know which category you’re looking at.
| Type | Typical cost | Diploma | Things to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-time online public school | Tuition-free | State-recognized Ohio diploma | Taught by licensed teachers; students typically take state tests and follow state requirements. |
| District-run online program | Tuition-free for district residents | Diploma from the home district | Availability and enrollment rules vary by district. |
| Private online school | Tuition charged | Varies; confirm accreditation | Check whether the diploma will be accepted by colleges and employers. |
| Online curriculum for homeschooling | Usually paid by the family | Parent issues the diploma | The family is responsible for instruction, record keeping and legal requirements. |
QDA is a full-time, tuition-free online public school.
For a public online school, this means it is recognized by the state of Ohio. Ask who oversees the school and how it is accredited. Credits and diplomas from an unaccredited school may not transfer or be accepted by colleges.
A tuition-free school shouldn’t charge tuition, but ask what else the family is responsible for, such as supplies, printing, optional activities or internet service. Ask whether a computer is provided.
Ask whether teachers are licensed in Ohio, how students contact them, how quickly they respond and whether students ever meet with them live. Strong teacher access is one of the biggest differences between schools.
Some schools rely on scheduled live classes. Others are mostly self-paced. Neither is better in every case. Ask what a typical school day or week looks like and whether you need to be online at set times.
Younger students usually need an adult nearby. Ask how much parent involvement is expected at each grade level, and what support the school offers for families.
If your student has an IEP, a 504 plan or is an English learner, ask how services are delivered online and who is responsible for them. QDA offers special services and English learner support.
Ask how the school handles students who are missing credits and students who want to accelerate. Look for a clear process, not just a promise. For example, here’s how credit recovery works at QDA.
Ask to see them in writing. You want to know how many credits are required, which courses are required and how the school tracks progress. Ours are on the graduation requirements page.
Ask about electives, College Credit Plus, industry-credential programs and career pathways. These can matter a lot for high school students planning for college or work.
Socialization is one of parents’ most common concerns. Ask about clubs, field trips, in-person events and opportunities to meet other students and staff. QDA offers student clubs, field trips and in-person programs such as YMCA Fridays.
Some online schools are entirely remote. Others have offices where families can get help, drop off paperwork or meet staff. QDA has offices in New Philadelphia, Steubenville and East Liverpool.
Look at the school’s state report card, graduation rates and annual report, and talk to current families if you can. Ask the school how it measures student success. Be cautious if you can’t find clear information.
We’d rather you choose the right school than just ours, but here is a quick summary of who we are:
You can read our district profile for more details about the school.
A conversation tells you more than a website does. Take your questions with you and notice how clearly and honestly they’re answered. If you’d like to talk with us, send a request for information or start a live chat from our site.
No. Online school works best for students who can work with some independence and have a space and schedule that supports learning. Many students thrive, especially those who need flexibility or a different environment. Others do better in person. It’s okay to ask a school whether it would be a good fit.
Often yes, but the process depends on the district and the timing. Ask the school how withdrawals and transfers work, and how credits are recorded and sent to the next school.
Two or three is usually enough. Comparing every option can become overwhelming. Start with the schools that serve your student’s grade and needs, then use the questions above to narrow it down.
That depends on the school. Many allow enrollment during the school year. Ask about start dates and what documents you’ll need.
