Estimated read time: 4-5 minutes
You may have heard about Utah Online School's benefits for students — flexible scheduling, a vast course offering and a long track record of success — but here's your chance to hear things from a teacher's perspective.
For April Larsen, Utah Online School isn't just her workplace; it's been a meaningful part of her family's own educational journey.
Not only have her children experienced the benefits of Utah Online School, but April has also found a deeply fulfilling career as a UOS teacher.
April's journey as an educator began at Southern Utah University, where she earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees in education. Early on, she knew she wanted to help students build confidence and discover that fitness and health are truly for everyone.
What she didn't expect was how much more effectively she could accomplish those goals through online learning — until she discovered what it was like to teach for Utah Online School.
Recognizing 'something special'
In 2018, April opened a new chapter in her career when she joined Utah Online School.
The difference was immediate: UOS gave her the chance to personalize learning in ways most traditional classes couldn't.
"The one-on-one connections, the flexibility, and the ability to meet students exactly where they need me have all shaped my belief that Utah Online offers something special," she said.
Her confidence in the program isn't only professional — it's rooted in her experience as a parent.
"As a parent, I've watched my own children thrive because of the opportunities Utah Online provides," she said.
After fifth grade, her son completed all of his high school P.E. credits online. Her daughter also began taking UOS classes early, which opened up her high school schedule and allowed her to take as many classes as she wanted in the subjects that interested her most.
Her kids aren't the only ones thriving. According to a Forbes article by Vicki Phillips, when students have more flexibility in how their time is structured, the result is often higher-quality engagement during the hours they are in school.
April would go on to receive a doctoral degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the American College of Education in 2023, further broadening her perspective of what engaging learning can look like.
The advantages of flexible, personalized learning
One of April's favorite parts of teaching online is helping students reconnect with the joy of learning.
When families take advantage of the flexibility UOS offers, students can build routines that incorporate physical activity, hobbies, rest and breaks — all of which leads to greater academic success.
"After several years with Utah Online, I can't imagine being anywhere else," April said. "Every day, the students, the caring school community, and the strong relationships formed remind me why I became a teacher in the first place: to help young people grow, discover their strengths, and succeed in ways that truly fit their lives. I love what I do, and I wouldn't trade it for anything."
Now enrolling students part-time
The UOS model has more than 20 years of proven success in online education. Thousands of students have benefitted from the freedom, flexibility and personalized approach it offers. April's story shows how it can positively impact both families and educators.
Right now, Utah Online School is accepting applications for part-time enrollment, which is ideal for students who:
- Want to free up space in their schedules for electives, extracurriculars, or advanced coursework.
- Need to take a class not offered at their boundary school.
- Prefer to learn certain subjects online.
- Need to make up missing credits with the support of certified teachers.
The application process has two steps:
- Create a Utah Online School account if you don't already have one.
- Speak with your current school counselor. Utah residents outside of Washington County may need to apply through SEATS before being accepted.
Credit recovery
For students who struggle or fail classes, UOS offers a trusted credit recovery program available statewide.
For a flat $50 fee, students can recover as many courses as they can within a nine-week session.
As soon as they complete a course, they can start the next one, allowing them to progress at a pace that best suits them.
Schools across Utah routinely refer students to Utah Online School for both makeup and original credit, relying on UOS's structure and support to help students stay on track for graduation.
A tried-and-true option for online education
If the idea of blending online and in-person learning is appealing but you're not sure where to start, Utah Online School has perfected the process.
UOS serves more than 10,000 students each year with a team of over 150 teachers, counselors and staff.
Over 20 years, more than 120,000 students have enrolled in UOS courses. The school maintains a course completion rate exceeding 90% and a graduation rate of more than 95%.
To find out more about current part-time enrollment opportunities for grades K–12, visit utahonline.org today.
