Master the clock
K12 graduates feel more prepared to manage large project workloads in college, since they already learned how to pace themselves and find balance in online school.
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K12 graduates go on to careers across every industry — from medicine and law to entrepreneurship and the arts. This page features stories of K12 alumni who credit their online education with giving them the flexibility, skills, and confidence to pursue their goals after graduation.

K12 prepares students for life after high school with personalized career exploration, one-on-one counseling, and credit-bearing college courses through dual enrollment. Students can explore career fields starting in middle school and earn industry-recognized certifications before graduation—leaving with a plan for college, a career, or their own business.
CAREER PREP
Computer science? Healthcare? Whatever field sparks your child’s interest, K12 can give them a head start — introducing them to new industry paths and building essential professional skills.
A recent study found that K12 graduates are more prepared for the workforce than peers who received traditional education. K12 graduates also report better social and soft skills — which prepare them for anything life has in store.
“It’s been a lot easier for me to get my work done. I feel less restricted in what I can do. I feel more calm.”
— Josh, 8th Grade
K12 graduates feel more prepared to manage large project workloads in college, since they already learned how to pace themselves and find balance in online school.


K12 graduates feel more confident taking exams that cover all course material and writing long essays, giving them a potential advantage in college courses.


After Josh’s solar panel project won first place in its category, an Environmental Protection Agency employee heard about it and reached out, creating a connection that gave Josh the chance to learn more about environmental science.


K12 graduates practice independent learning throughout the school day. With less teacher oversight, they’re already accustomed to the typical college learning environment.


“If you’re interested in business, they’ve got the business pathway. If you’re interested in technology or video, they’ve got that pathway. There are a lot of options, and you’re not pigeonholed into just English or math or science.”
— Lynda, Geoffrey’s mom
K12 graduates feel more favorably about teachers and administrators guiding them toward a career, providing good professional advice, and helping them set ambitious career goals.


Career exploration courses introduce students to potential fields early on. In middle school, Geoffrey developed a passion for architecture after designing an accessible playground in career explorations class.


74% of K12 graduates feel optimistic about their career direction, while only 56% of graduates from traditional schools feel the same way. They’re also more likely to report working in their dream job after graduation.


71% of K12 graduates agree that school instilled a strong work ethic in them, while only 59% of traditional graduates feel similarly. According to one student, K12 “makes you learn how to be a self-motivated individual.”


K12 graduates felt more empowered to speak up when they needed clarification or help from teachers — essential skills for navigating the workforce, college, and life.


K12 graduates feel significantly more prepared to think analytically and solve complex problems than their peers from traditional schools.


K12 graduates believe their high schools are more successful at fostering soft skills — like how to manage time, lead others, and set goals — than students from traditional schools.


“My teachers made me feel important; out of hundreds of teenagers, many classes, and their personal lives, they made every effort to make one teenage girl come out of her bubble and have confidence again.”
— Ashlynn, 12th Grade
68% of K12 parents say their children play sports with other children at least two to three times per week.


K12 graduates are more in agreement that high school helped them practice leadership and interpersonal skills than graduates of traditional schools.


After Ashlynn experienced bullying in traditional school, support from K12 teachers and socialization opportunities helped her regain her confidence and make friends.


K12 students give themselves higher social skill evaluations than their peers in traditional schools. They also receive higher evaluations by parents, indicating that graduates of online schools start college with superior communication abilities.


PARENT STORIES
Students blossom at K12-powered online schools. Online school challenges each student when appropriate while offering plenty of support, giving them the skills and confidence to approach any challenge in life.
Yes—K12’s Future Readiness Survey found 74% of K12 graduates feel optimistic about their career direction, compared to 56% of their peers. Graduates also report feeling more prepared to think analytically, solve complex problems, and manage soft skills like time management and leadership than students from traditional schools.
78% believe they are excelling at their current job
Stride K12-Powered Students
78%
Brick-and-Mortar Schools
46%
74% feel optimistic about their career direction
Stride K12-Powered Students
74%
Brick-and-Mortar Schools
56%
71% say their school taught them the importance of a strong work ethic
Stride K12-Powered Students
71%
Brick-and-Mortar Schools
59%
By pursuing their unique interests and practicing independence with a K12 education, these students were ready to achieve their goals after graduation.
K12-powered programs help students build skills they can use in college, careers, and beyond. Along the way, students are encouraged to think about their goals and plan what comes next.
Yes, students can explore college and career options using helpful tools and resources. They also get support as they set goals and prepare for life after high school.
Graduates go on to college, careers, and other opportunities that match their goals. K12 helps them build a strong foundation for whatever path they choose.
Getting started takes three steps: find the right K12-powered school for your family, complete an online application in the K12 Enrollment Portal, and watch your email for approval and next steps. Enrollment consultants are available by phone or chat to help along the way.
Select your state for a list of accredited K12-powered online schools in your area.
Create a Parent Portal account or log in to your existing account to begin the enrollment process.