What Online School Looks Like: A Student Day in the Life Q&A With Promise

By: Promise P., 9th grade student and SAC intern

SAC Blog Series: Each year, the K12 Marketing Department hires a cohort of high school interns known as the Student Advisory Council or SAC. This year, the talented group of students is creating social media content across platforms to help build brand awareness and engage our audiences around the online learning experience.

Let’s get to know these amazing SAC students. We asked them what makes online school so great, and here’s what Promise had to say.

My K12 Why

What do you like about online school? Why does online learning work for you?

Online school is easier for me. Not only am I learning a multitude of things, but I’m also under much less stress. It’s fun and lighthearted while still being educational, which I really appreciate. Online school works for me because I can learn while maintaining control over my life without feeling overwhelmed. I also love being able to finish my schoolwork and spend time with my family afterwards.

Why did you switch to online school?

I attended in-person school before, but my parents ultimately realized that online school fit me better. It offered more challenges and diversity compared to classes at my previous school.

How was the transition?

It was extremely smooth. I blended in perfectly. I had attended online school before when I was younger, so I was already a bit accustomed to it.

What has your experience been compared to your previous school?

It’s been amazing. My previous school was great as well, but my K12-powered school ultimately offered me more resources.

Did anything surprise you about online school?

Not really. The main thing that surprised me was the freedom to wear what I want and manage my day. At my old school, my biggest pet peeve was getting dress code violations even for appropriate outfits. That’s not something I have to worry about with online school. As long as I show up to class on time, participate, and do my homework, I’m pretty much free to do what I want—which I love because it balances perfectly with my personal life.

My Online School Day

Can you describe a typical day and week for your virtual school experience?

A typical day for me starts with waking up, following my routine, eating a fulfilling breakfast, and then attending at least three live online classes. Some days have more classes, but they aren’t overwhelming, so I’m not bothered by it. I usually get my homework done either between classes or after school is over.

The afternoon is my favorite part of the day. That’s when I’m able to communicate more in classes, as the teachers prioritize completing work first and then take time to chat with students.

What classes are you taking right now?

Right now, I’m taking art, English, intensive reading, math, science, and Spanish. My favorite subject is English! I love to read and learn new things.

What do you like to do during your breaks?

I like to read or spend time with my cat, Onyx. He’s usually nearby, but I make sure to give him my undivided attention during my breaks. I read constantly, and on weekends, I always dedicate time to it. My favorite genres are history and fiction.

My Teachers & Classmates

Can you tell us more about your teachers?

My English teacher is my favorite, and she knows how to present to the class in a way that’s engaging. All of my teachers are very sweet and stay in touch with me. They send messages to make sure their students are doing well. They’re always willing to help as long as you let them know what you’re struggling with, and they provide the resources needed to succeed.

How do you say connected with friends? Have you met friends through online school?

Yes. Even though we don’t talk much outside of school, I’ve built solid relationships with students in my online classes.

What are your hobbies?

In my free time, I like to read and paint. The flexibility of online school enables me to put more focus into my hobbies.

Can you tell us about your workspace?

It’s just a regular table. I have trouble focusing when there are too many things in front of me, so I keep it simple with just my pen and paper. It helps me a lot. My workspace is special to me because of how simple it is. I don’t have to spend time deciding where things go. I can just sit down, get my work done, and move on.

The most interesting place I’ve done schoolwork is at the store. I had a deadline for an exam and finished it in the middle of grocery shopping. I passed, so a win is a win!

My Future

What do you want to do after high school?

After high school, I plan to become a nurse practitioner. I also hope to incorporate content creation into my career in some way, since I have a passion for both.

Do you feel that online school is helping you prepare for the future?

Yes! I’m able to incorporate it into my daily life, so it definitely helps. What I’m learning in math is something I know I’ll use in my future career.

What advice do you have for other students and families considering the switch to a K12-powered online school?

My advice is to have a distraction-free workspace that’s solely dedicated to you and to stay engaged in your classes. Having a dedicated workspace motivates me to wake up in the morning because I know I have my own little space just waiting for me to get to work.

Thank you, Promise! To learn more about the K12 Student Advisory Council, visit their webpage, or see how your high school student can thrive in online school with K12-powered programs.

Promise is a 2025 student at a K12-powered school in FL, and their statement reflects their experience at their school.