Estimated read time: 4-5 minutes
Every student's path through school looks a little different. And here in Utah, families actually have powerful rights that can open doors to new opportunities — rights many parents don't even realize they already have.
Because of Utah law and the Utah State Board of Education (USBE), middle and high school students can take approved online courses that match their academic, personal and even career goals.
In other words, your child doesn't have to squeeze into the traditional education mold.
Finding the path that works best for them isn't just an option — it's their right.
When students realize this, it can be truly life-changing. And when parents understand how to support and advocate for those rights, the impact grows even greater.
Savannah's story: Building a future through online learning
Meet Savannah, a Utah Online School student who discovered the power of choice firsthand.
By mixing in-person classes with online courses she built a schedule that worked for her goals instead of against them.
That flexibility gave her a head start. While still in high school, Savannah earned her certified nursing assistant (CNA) credential, gained hands-on experience working as a CNA and completed phlebotomy training.
She'll graduate not only with a 4.0 GPA but also with a full set of college general education courses and many of her nursing prerequisites already done.
And she didn't miss out on the traditional high school experience along the way.
Savannah also performed with her school's drill team, balancing athletics, academics and career training all at once.
Her story shows what's possible when families understand and use their rights: online courses can give students the space to get ahead, explore passions and step confidently into the careers they're already preparing for.
Parent and student advocacy checklist: What you need to know
If you want your student to have the same opportunities Savannah did, here are a few things that make the process smoother for parents:
Know your rights
Utah law allows students to take up to six online credits each year through any USBE-approved provider — sometimes even more if it helps with their academic goals.
Schools must allow blended schedules so kids can mix online and in-person classes. And they don't lose access to sports, clubs, school facilities or graduation.
Put it in writing
Send an email to the counselor or administrator explaining your request, and save a copy of every email or form. Keeping a paper trail makes a big difference.
Connect it to their plan
Show how an online course supports your student's College and Career Readiness Plan — whether it helps them graduate early, make room for athletics or get a jump on career training.
Highlight the benefits
Explain how the online option helps your student. It might avoid schedule conflicts, open the door to unique classes or let them work ahead. Make sure your counselor or administrator understands the reason.
Keep it professional
Be polite but confident. Reference Utah law or USBE rules if you need to support your request.
Ask for decisions in writing
If the school denies a request, ask them to put it in writing and cite the law. That step often makes schools reconsider.
Know when to escalate
If you still hit roadblocks, contact the USBE Statewide Online Education Program Coordinator and share your documentation.
Why this matters
Online education isn't just about screens — it's about freedom. The freedom to build flexible schedules, accelerate learning and seize opportunities that fit your student's future.
Whether your child is like Savannah — driven toward a medical career while still shining on her drill team — or simply needs room to balance academics with athletics, work, or family, these rights are here to help.
Bottom line: Schools may prefer their own programs, but preference is not law
Utah Code and USBE rules protect your student's right to choose. Bring the documentation, remain professional and stay firm.
When parents know their power, students gain the freedom to thrive.
Explore Utah Online School today
Utah Online School offers a full range of middle and high school courses that let students tailor their learning to their goals.
From core classes to electives and career-focused courses, UOS gives students the flexibility to advance academically while still participating in sports, clubs and other school activities.
Online learning might just be the perfect fit for your student's needs. Browse the UOS website, explore course options and enroll today to give your child the freedom to shape their own path.
