Frequently asked questions

How do I track my child’s progress?

You can track your child’s progress through regular assignments, quizzes, and assessments. Grading specialists provide feedback on all submitted work, and you will have access to monitor progress and areas for improvement.

How does grading work in the program?

Our grading specialists grade assignments based on rubrics, providing feedback and assigning grades based on the quality of your child’s work. Any areas that need improvement are clearly communicated.

What happens if my child falls behind?

If a student falls behind, we offer supports like tutoring, additional resources, and one-on-one assistance to help get back on track. We also collaborate with parents to create action plans and provide ongoing feedback.

Do you provide extracurricular activities or social events?

While our focus is on academics, we periodically offer extracurricular activities or virtual social events for students to connect with their peers, fostering a sense of community and engagement outside of coursework.

Is there a way to communicate with the grading specialist or other staff members?

Yes, parents and students can communicate with grading specialists and staff members via email or through the platform. If needed, scheduled meetings can be arranged to discuss progress or any concerns.

What is Adaptive Learning?

Adaptive learning is an educational method that uses technology to tailor the learning experience to each individual student's needs. It adjusts the content, pace, and difficulty of lessons based on how well the student is progressing. The goal is to ensure each student receives personalized instruction that maximizes their learning potential.

What does it mean to be standards aligned?

Being "standards aligned" means that the content, curriculum, or assessments are designed to meet specific educational standards set by governing bodies. This ensures that the learning experience is consistent with recognized benchmarks of educational quality and relevance.

Are there live lectures at set times?

No, there are no required live sessions for students as all courses are asynchronous. Students do have weekly due dates for assignments to ensure they stay on pace.

What is asynchronous learning?

Asynchronous learning allows students to access lessons, assignments, and materials at their own pace and schedule. There are deadlines for assignments but no fixed times for live classes, offering flexibility for students with different schedules.

Do you have set course starts?

Our courses run on an ongoing basis based on enrollment and student demand.

How are your courses structured?

Our courses run on a quarter system, where students work in the course for 8 weeks and then take a minimum of a one-week break. Four completed quarters count as one full year or 1 credit in that subject.

What platforms is the Canvas app compatible with?

The Canvas app is compatible with Apple or Android tablets as well as Windows or Apple computers.

Do you have teachers?

No, we do not have traditional teachers. Parents serve as the teachers of record. Grading specialists grade assignments and provide feedback but do not offer direct instruction.

Do you issue transcripts and diplomas?

Yes, Highlands Prep offers an official American High School Diploma and K-12 transcripts (student must complete one semester/4 months with us).

Do you offer tutoring?

Yes! We have both AI and human tutors available for any subject we offer.

Do you have support for students who have additional learning challenges?

Yes, we offer several supports for students who may face additional learning challenges. This includes:

• Tutoring Services: For extra help understanding concepts or completing assignments.

• Student Wellness Sessions: Focused on emotional and social support.

• Diagnostic Testing: To identify barriers such as learning delays and create personalized action plans.

• Custom Learning Plans: For students with ADHD, dyslexia, or other challenges, we create tailored learning plans. These supports help ensure every student has what they need to succeed.

Are you accredited?

Yes, Highlands Prep Academy is a Category IV accredited non-public school, recognized by the Tennessee Department of Education and authorized through the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI). This accreditation allows us to issue all necessary academic documents, including official transcripts, diplomas, and verification forms required for colleges, scholarships, or other institutions.

Are you regionally accredited?

No, Highlands Prep Academy is not regionally accredited. We are a Category IV accredited non-public school approved by the Tennessee Department of Education and the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI). While regional accreditation is held by traditional school districts and colleges, our state-recognized accreditation still allows us to issue official transcripts, diplomas, and other academic records accepted by most colleges, employers, and scholarship programs.

How do you ensure student accountability?

We provide built-in progress tracking, grading support, and clear pacing guides to help students stay on track. Parents remain the primary educators and receive regular updates to monitor their child’s progress.

Do you offer placement testing?

Yes, placement testing is available to help ensure students are working at the appropriate level. It can be especially helpful when enrolling mid-year, transitioning from a different curriculum, or identifying support needs.