The SOAR Program
Is online learning for me?
The online student must take responsibility for his or her own learning. In any online education program, the student must be a self-directed learner, have internal motivation to manage his or her own learning during the course of study, and have a basic grasp of Internet navigation. The SOAR program requires students to make the appropriate time for their coursework, in order to succeed.

How does this work?
Because all of our courses are online, we offer our students flexibility that they might not receive in a traditional setting. Our curriculum is rigorous, engaging, and self-paced. All of our courses are backed by our highly qualified staff of certified teachers who are available via instant message, phone, or email. We also offer a 24/7 student support environment so that you can get help when you need it.

Is the SOAR program accredited?
Yes! In partnership with Galena City School District's IDEA Program, we are fully accredited by Northwest Association of Accredited Schools (NAAS).

What is the cost of taking online courses?
The SOAR program offers its program FREE for students who meet the qualifications of the program.

How can it be free?
The same funding used for traditional students can be used for online students; therefore there is no fee for taking online courses for most students.

Can I take classes part-time and still be a part of the SOAR program ?
Yes!  Students enrolled in the SOAR program have the option of full or part-time status.

What materials are needed in order to take the SOAR program courses?
All of the courses offered by the SOAR program can be taken 100% online so there very little need for any additional materials. Some advanced courses may require additional materials. The only things students truly need to begin their coursework are Internet access and a computer. All of our courses can be accessed through dial-up Internet access, but high-speed access is recommended.

What type of software or hardware will I need on my computer to take these courses?
There are some basic requirements for the computer on which you will be working. Click here to see the basic requirements.

Who will issue my diploma?
The Galena School District will issue the diploma on behalf of the SOAR program. The best part about it is that, in most cases, students enrolled in the online program will be able to attend a graduation ceremony along with their fellow high school students!

How to Succeed

What do I need to do to succeed in the SOAR program's online courses?
When you take an online course you need to prepare yourself as you would for any course in a classroom setting. Key differences are that your teacher is online and not face-to-face, and your lessons are on a computer. In an online course, time management is critical to success because most activities can be accomplished asynchronously, which means you don't necessarily have to be online at the same time as your instructor or other students.

Who is my teacher?
Your teacher for each course is a state-certified teacher who has experience teaching online courses. Your first introduction to your teacher will be in a welcome phone call once your enrollment is approved. Your teacher will give you an overview of the course and answer any questions you have.

How can I contact my teacher?
You may contact your teacher instantly through our popular instant messaging service. Also you may use e-mail, fax or toll-free telephone to contact your teacher. Certified teachers are available M-F 5AM - 7PM (AK), and our customer support team monitors the phones 24 hours-a-day, 7 days-a-week, and is available to help you.