Why Forest Trail Academy?

Forest Trail Academy is one of the leading online schools in the United States that offers your child the opportunity to earn grades for elementary school, middle school as well as credits for high school. We offer quality K-12 courses to students all over the United States, and abroad. At Forest Trail Academy, not only do we offer your child the quality of traditional education programs but also the flexibility of learning at their own pace.

There are a number of online schools out there that offer you quality education. So, what makes us so different?

Why Forest Trail Academy?

Because we believe your child deserves the best and we want to partner with you to give them that opportunity. Not all children are born equal, but that does not deny them the right to the same education. We offer you and your child that opportunity.

At Forest Trail Academy, our well-qualified and experienced staff is committed to ensuring that your child receives the best education along with the right guidance.

Online Curriculum offered at our Academy:

• At Forest Trail Academy, your child can earn grades for online elementary school, online middle school as well as online high school.
• Our interactive curriculum is aligned to the Common Core State Standards along with the Next Generation Sunshine State Standards.
• Our diplomas are recognized and accepted by other colleges and universities nationwide. Our online courses are also transferable to other schools nationwide right from Kindergarten to the 12^th grade.
• Forest Trail Academy employs an interactive, self-paced learning system that allows even students with different learning abilities to achieve proficiency.
• Students can opt for online program courses or homeschooling courses via correspondence.
• Our curriculum and Advanced Placement programs prepare your child for college entrance tests and job validation.

  Our Credentials

• Forest Trail Academy is registered with the Florida Department of Education. We have several accreditation, which includes the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS CASI) and Middle States Accreditation - Commission on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA - CESS) and Accreditation International (Ai) The National Council for Private School Accreditation. These affiliations means our diploma is recognized by colleges and universities and our courses are transferable to other schools nationwide from K-12. In addition, we are an NCAA Approved school. 

• Forest Trail Academy is NCAA Approved Curriculum School Code 102800. The NCAA does not endorse or affiliate with the services of Forest Trail Academy. The parent/guardian of a prospective student-athlete should ensure that programs are in compliance with NCAA bylaws.
  The NCAA Web site http://www.ncaastudent.org is the only place to receive the most current and accurate information about NCAA rules and regulations.

Know More About Accredited K-12 Courses: 
 Online Elementary School Courses
Online Middle School Courses
Online Diploma Courses
Online High School Courses

 

Online K-12 Education Courses

The new dimension of acquiring of knowledge is by uprooting the classroom from a physical environment to a virtual one. Forest Trail Academy is a highly regarded online school in the United States that offers students around the globe and within the country, top-notch K-12 education courses. Without the need to be within an actual classroom, Forest Trail Academy brings the classroom to you wherever you may be. We understand how education can be limited to the insides of a country’s borders, where we offer the opportunity to avail of an easily accessible foreign academic training online.

Our online high school so to speak, consists of everything a real classroom has – class discussions, qualified teachers, tests, projects, lesson outlines, homework, and the likes. We offer certified online diploma courses besides the ones we provide for elementary, middle, and high school. All diplomas have been deemed recognizable by a host of reputed colleges and universities. The curriculum as part of the online classroom is designed under the Common Core State Standards in partnership with the Next Sunshine State Standards.

We believe in securing your future with the kind of education that is now attainable from the comfort of your home. We help students from all walks of life right, from elementary school to university levels. Under our multi-diverse umbrella of online courses, we take away the monotony of an actual classroom and turn it around. Students who have access to the Internet can take advantage of our  courses and pave a successful path into a fruitful future. Parents too can take advantage of what we offer as part of the online school sessions, where we strive to keep it interactive, engaging, and flexible in terms of timings and completion of the classes.

By browsing through our slew of options under the online diploma courses, you’ll come across a spread of subjects that can help you specialize in your area of interest. College students who have successfully passed the online diploma courses have been accepted by colleges and universities of a high stature. As long as you put in your dedication and hard work, we ensure a future that will take you places.

Forest Trail Academy understands the needs and expectations of parents who wish to see their kids grow within an environment that promises to mimic the insides of an actual classroom. We give students the same kind of attention that is given in school and colleges across the nation in their four-walled classrooms. While many question the effectiveness of such a virtual plateau, we are here to quell your doubts and douse your worries.

All our online K-12 education courses and interactive sessions with students are done with the latest in technology and with the most affable approach tactics that promote a sense of accomplishment, positivism, and etiquette. We take education to a whole new level by introducing to all who are welcome, a friendly, assured place that takes care of a student’s tomorrow.

Browse our detailed course ware information page to know more about the online and correspondence curriculum and enroll today for the suitable, appropriate course.


Know More About Accredited K-12 Courses:
 Online Elementary School Courses
Online Middle School Courses
Online Diploma Courses
Online High School Courses

Online and Correspondence Courses offered by Forest Trail Academy

Online Elementary School

Forest Trail academy offers accredited, online elementary school for grade levels Kindergarten - 5^th. Our elementary school students have access to an interactive; wide range of course works while working at their own pace. Our elementary school online classes include a certified teachers, lessons, projects, homework, class discussions and tests. Our online elementary curriculum is aligned with the Common Core State Standards and the Next Generation Sunshine State Standards.

http://www.foresttrailacademy.com/online-elementary-school.html

Online Middle School

Forest Trail Academy offers the hallmark of truly effective traditional education programs for grade levels 6th - 8th. All middle school courses are taught by highly qualified teachers and our curriculum is aligned with the Common Core State Standards and the Next Generation Sunshine State Standards.

http://www.foresttrailacademy.com/online-middle-school.html

Online High School

We offer accredited, online high school for grade levels 9th - 12th. Our high school students have access to an interactive, wider range of coursework while working at their own pace. Students, as a starting point in planning the courses will have to earn 24 credits for the college preparatory diploma. The online high school curriculum is aligned with the Common Core State Standards and the Next Generation Sunshine State Standards.

http://www.foresttrailacademy.com/online-high-school.html

Correspondence Courses

We realize that students learn in different ways and we want to include and provide as many options as possible. We are proud to offer Home School / Correspondence / Books as a great option for those students who require printed curriculum. Both Secular Correspondence and Christian Correspondence programs are offered.

http://www.foresttrailacademy.com/home-school-correspondence-courses.html

College Prep Diploma (24 Credits)

This program takes the traditional four years to complete high school and requires students to earn at least 24 credits. Foreign language credit is required for this program. Students must earn at least 14 of the 24 required credits in the specified rigorous-level core courses.

http://www.foresttrailacademy.com/online-college-prep-diploma-program.html

General Ed Diploma (21 Credits)

The requirements of this program are designed to prepare students for entering a postsecondary institution of education. This program requires fewer credits than a college preparatory diploma. Students must earn at least 11 of the 21 required credits in specified rigorous-level core courses.

http://www.foresttrailacademy.com/online-correspondence-general-education-diploma-program.html

Vocational Ed Diploma (18 credits)

The requirements of the program are designed to prepare students for entrance into a technical center or entrance into the workforce. This accelerated graduation program requires fewer credits and focuses more on academic courses. Students must earn at least 15 of the 18 required credits in specified rigorous-level core courses.

http://www.foresttrailacademy.com/online-correspondence-vocational-education-diploma-program.html

Individual Courses / Credit Recovery

While the full Kindergarten - 12th grade programs are still the best option both academically and financially for most families, we recognize that there may be good reasons why a student may wish to take only a course or two with us such as credit recovery, summer school, accelerated credits, electives, foreign languages.

http://www.foresttrailacademy.com/credit-recovery-courses.html

Advanced Placement (AP) Courses

Forest Trail Academy offers Advanced Placement Courses. Please be cognizant that we offer the courses and NOT the test. All our AP courses are approved by and listed with College Board.

http://www.foresttrailacademy.com/advanced-placement-courses.html

Enrolling Online Degree Program

Enrolling in an online program during one’s academic years may not be approached with a willing attitude. It is natural to feel wary about such a system that promotes studying from the comfort of one’s home without the conventional four-walled classroom. The internet has taken over the physical classroom that is common in every nation and state, making studying possible for practically anyone, anywhere. We live in a multifaceted, ever-changing world that doesn’t conform to any one kind of technology or method. Our population is constantly growing, therefore it is imperative we look for ways to improve, change, and adapt. There are students who seek education that is closer to home, affordable, and attainable. The internet has made this desire and need possible.

Every young child and adult who wants to learn and be something in this competitive, success-driven world, where an education counts no matter where one goes, can now do so. They are given a chance to be able to hold in their hands the certification to prove that one is an educated individual is not only an accomplishment, but a privilege. Forest Trail Academy can give students that privilege whilst being seated from behind a screen in one’s own home. There’s no need to attend actual classes except of course virtually with other students who have enrolled in the online classroom. Forest Trail Academy offers students both young and mature  a chance to complete an accredited education under the guidance of a skillful, caliber-rich faculty.

The K-12 education program is designed for students worldwide right from kindergarten to the 12th grade, with the added opportunity to enter a reputable college/university. The diploma courses are a bundle of essential subjects that are taught in traditional classrooms and now available online. By choosing a diploma course that tailor-fits a student’s needs, rest assured that he/she can have the opportunity for a brilliant future. There are three categories under the diploma courses section, where each one comprises a set of credits that needs to be acquired before venturing forward.

Forest Trail Academy has a proud list of accreditations and memberships to its name. It is a member of the National Association of Private & Home Schools which is a trusted organization in cementing the futures of students.  The school is regionally accredited by AdvancEd, which is dedicated to advancing excellence in education worldwide. AdvancEd is the parent organization of the North Central Association Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (NCA CASI), Northwest Accreditation Commission (NWAC), and The Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS CASI) and is recognized by the United States Department of Education. These are just some of the many notable organizations that are in collaboration with Forest Trail Academy to promote and disperse knowledge not just nationally but internationally.

Parents are no doubt going to be in state of skepticism, but they can trust the workings of Forest Trail Academy and its diploma courses. What if you want your child close to home? What if they get homesick and fail to perform at school if sent to another city? What if the teaching system isn’t up to par with the changing times? What if the school fees are exorbitant owing to our rising standard of living? Forest Trail Academy recognizes a parent’s woes and helps students attain a level of certification that would matter just the same in a real classroom, though from an online perspective. If parents/students still feel uneasy about enrolling for the diploma courses, they can contact Forest Trail Academy and put forward their valuable queries.

We believe in imparting to students the same kind of knowledge that can be saturated within a traditional classroom. The idea is to not only make it uncomplicated and convenient, but to hand over this opportunity for students worldwide. Whether a student lives in Asia, Europe, the Middle East, or in the United States, he/she can be sure to get unmatchable and praise-worthy results as part of our diploma courses. The faculty is a versatile group of teachers that are highly qualified in their respective fields of expertise. Each teacher has a specialized qualification and holds a high place within the standards of our academy.

The diploma courses upon quick inspection will reveal all the vital subjects that are important to cover as part of a traditional school’s curriculum. Students will receive the same kind of attention, teaching module materials, classroom sessions (video conferencing) and updated textual references. Our faculty understands the needs of each student in order to help maintain a path that focuses on personal development and strong careers.

The Online diploma courses also cater to students who are faced with unavoidable and understandable circumstances that Forest Trail Academy respects. Every student can now seize the opportunity to take part in a diploma course program that promises to make it worth one’s while. Forest Trail Academy offers an affordably accessible stage that doesn’t downplay its services as part of the diploma course programs. Students interested in other programs that the academy has to offer can browse through the many facets that are conveniently featured in detail.

The future of tomorrow lies in the hands of technology and we can do nothing more but embrace it and acknowledge its imminent influence. It can change lives and turn the impossible into the possible. Forest Trail Academy has uniquely mastered the art of using the internet to create a fitting moment for students worldwide. We have made a name for ourselves in the academic world and carved a niche that is gradually going to further solidify our purpose.

The academy allows students to complete the online course without haste and to be present for classes whenever time permits. There are no time constraints although the flexibility offered shouldn't let one compromise on hard work and determination. The chance is offered to students but it is ultimately up to them to use it to their advantage. The faculty and the academy as a united force are here to be of help and assistance to all those who enter our humble, yet highly-regarded academy. We only wish to impart the best there is through an online world that offers students a world of opportunity.

Joshua Lawrence Successfully Completes US Science Program

With keen interest in science, Joshua Lawrence, 13, continues to make his family proud in many areas despite challenges. According to his family, he is a child who continues to fight and win the odds against the Autism Spectrum (PDD/NOS).

Lawrence has not allowed his challenges to peg him back, as he recently participated successfully in a summer science program at a University in Rhode Island, USA.

Lawrence was among some 105 7th and 8th graders from various countries, including the USA, UK, South Korea and China. He was the only child from the Caribbean who attended the prestigious SPARK Summer Science Program at the ivy league Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island last month.

Lawrence of Sugar Mill Road, Lower Estate is an 8th Grade student enrolled in an accredited high school in Florida and he is a continuing student of the Sylvan Learning Center, Caguas, Puerto Rico and associated with The Valley Day School, Virgin Gorda.

Lawrence's success and achievements are commendable, as it cements that every child can learn to his full potential. However, according to his mother, Einstein Samuels, this cannot be achieved without getting the proper intervention that the child requires.

She believes that early and continuous intervention is the key. She encourages parents like herself to be aggressive and not allow any system or educator to contribute to their child's downfall. She is of the view that the time has long expired for educators and policy makers in the BVI to ensure that no child is left behind.

Meanwhile, in relation to the program, among the many interesting programs to choose from, Lawrence chose Nanotechnology: The Small Wonder From Atom To Space.

The experience and knowledge he gained will long be remembered as Lawrence participated in classmate presentations and a debate on whether or not nanotechnology should be used for medical applications.

Among the exciting experiments and hands on learning, he made an edible nano surface of candy and crackers, water filtration using nano size calcium phosphate and bone cement using jello and nano size bone mineral. The teenager also measured the pulse rate of a blackworm, which he didn't like too much.

Professor Yei Yang who taught the class, said Lawrence was able to meet the demands of the program and he was impressed with his performance and participation.

As a result, Lawrence's critical thinking skills have advanced as he is now able to view scientific and real life situations from different angles. He has a greater appreciation for science, which has widened his curiosity to learn more and ask more mind-provoking questions.

According to his family, above all, he made lots of friends and he is thrilled that learning doesn't have to be boring.

In addition to his interest in science, the teen loves traveling; plays the violin, guitar and drums; kung fu, sailing and he also loves challenging himself to use the piano.

 SPARK is a science program for curious middle school students that seek to spend one or two weeks at Brown University campus and immerse themselves in exciting science subjects and gain the foundations necessary for further scientific inquiry. SPARK brings together students with similar abilities and diverse backgrounds.

Applications are submitted and reviewed by the Admissions Committee who looks for academic excellence, intellectual curiosity and the ability to participate, and thereafter approve or reject applications. Supporting documents for the application included official school transcripts for the 6th and 7th grades with an explanation of the scoring system.

The program was introduced to Lawrence by his school.

Lawrence's mother expressed special appreciation to Joshua's school, Professor Yei Yang and the administrators and staff of Brown University, Mr. Wade Smith, Mr. Kafer Smith and Mrs. Marcella Matthews. Source from:  http://www.bviplatinum.com/news.php?page=Article&articleID=1344996317

TEACHER FEATURE

By: Brianna Lucciano

Most teachers write lessons, assignments, and tests, grade the work and then move on. Heather Hillesheim, better known to the student body as Mrs. H., goes beyond that. She not only teaches she makes certain her students understand their work. She also gives her opinion on our work, and sends a weekly message; and most importantly makes every one of her students feel as though they are her favorite. When I asked students what words came to mind when they thought of Mrs. H the words included kind, caring, unique, patient, and funny. Mrs. H is an amazing teacher, not only am I lucky to have her as a teacher, but our whole student body is lucky enough to have her in our school.

 Mrs. H was kind enough to take a few minutes to answer my questions about her life and FTA. 

What made you want to become a teacher?

I originally wanted to be a teacher because I love chemistry. I also had a young chemistry teacher in high school that I think really set me on my path to getting my degree in chemistry. After about a year of teaching I realized that I really love high school students. I love seeing them trying to decide what kind of an adult they're going to be. 

How long have you been a teacher?

This is my 6th year teaching, though I took a year off before teaching at FTA. 

I know that you have taught in a traditional school, what made you want to teach in an online school?

When my husband got a new job I was finally able to stay home with our daughter, which had been the plan since we'd gotten married. However, after just a year I realized I really missed my work. Teaching for FTA allows me to have all of my kids, my daughter and my students too. Its the best of both worlds!

What are the benefits of online versus traditional schooling?

I think the major benefits are allowing students to work slower or faster than they would in a normal setting and flexibility of scheduling. It wasn't until I started teaching for FTA that I realized how many online students are in online courses because their schedules don't allow for traditional school. Students who are athletes, actors, and dancers. I think its wonderful that we provide a way for all students to have their needs met.  

What was your best subject in college?

I did well and really enjoyed physical chemistry and the electricity and magnetism half of physics. I also shocked myself by loving my biomedical ethics class! 

In high school, were you ever awarded, "Best Dressed", "Most Likely to be Famous", "Class President", etc...? 

I think I got smartest girl in junior high. I was the treasurer of the Science Club, but I didn't tell many people about it because it was terribly nerdy. I was also the valedictorian when we graduated. 

Do you run any other clubs other than the NHS for FTA, and what is your favorite thing about FTA?

NHS is the only club I'm running, but I am the club coordinator so I help organize things for all of the clubs, like the new forums and chat rooms. 

My favorite thing about FTA is that I feel like the administration really wants to do the best that they can for teachers and students. 

So as you can see Mrs. H is not your typical teacher, she wants what is best for each of her students and really does care. Mrs. H continues to do beyond her best for her students and her students continue try their hardest in her classes because of the teacher she is.

This is Mrs. H pictured with her husband Daniel, and adorable daughter Keely.       

 

 

Forest Trail Academy Accreditations

Forest Trail Academy, one of the most renowned college preparatory schools, is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS CASI). This bears testimony to the fact that Forest Trail academy maintains high standards with respect to the quality of education they are providing to students - worldwide.

SACS CASI is an accreditation division of Advanced, which is a globally recognized education community, serving public and private schools spread over 69 countries and educate more than 15 million students. Advanced has more than 100 years of experience in evaluating education systems with the aid of research based tools and techniques. The National Study of School Education provides necessary inputs to Advanced for deciding on the parameters based on which the course curriculum, the overall performance and progress of a school/education system is assessed

The process of accreditation should add value to the education system by

• aligning the systems and processes with the core values of the organization,
• providing insights as to how an organization can improve
• by setting up a research based set standard for the organization to adhere to

Forest Trail Academy does not take this accreditation as a one time phenomenon or just a hallmark on their education system. It has taken the accreditation as an ongoing process through which they will continuously thrive to improve their education system based on the set parameters provided by SACS CASI. Such improvement is always directed to the core objective of the organization to provide alternative education to students worldwide from all walks of life and different life circumstances.

Forest Trail Academy is also accredited by Middle States Association – Commission on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA CESS), National Association for the Legal Support of Alternative Schools (N.A.L.S.A.S) and Accreditation International (Ai).

Online education provided by Forest Trail Academy is reviewed and updated on a periodic basis keeping in mind the ever changing scenario in the education world and job market. Dedicated teachers and faculties of Forest Trail Academy are available to educate, motivate and groom students for a better future. Since online school students receive education in seclusion at their home, to keep them motivated, the faculties often get into the role of a mentor and put in their best efforts to guide the students and boost up their morale as and when needed.

Online learning is a sought after alternative for students who cannot attend a regular school however it is utmost important for parents to enquire whether an online education system has been accredited by the proper authorities or not, before enrolling their kids. Only this can give sense of assurance to the parents that their kid’s future is in safe hands.

Forest Trail Academy is accredited online school which is committed toward providing education through an online environment which meets the quality standard laid down by the appropriate governing bodies of the education system.