OPINION: Online learning is empowering Florida students

Contrary to popular belief, an online education provides many students with advantages they would not have enjoyed in a traditional school. And I'm an example of that: I'm a student at Florida Virtual School, and online learning has given me a personalized education and skills that I will use long after I graduate.

The flexibility of online learning has allowed me to create a schedule that meets my needs, and I can progress with my individual classes at the pace that best suits me. Meanwhile, my teachers at Florida Virtual School have provided me with an amazing support system – and I have been able to finish some classes earlier than scheduled.

There are countless positive things I will take away from my experience with online learning, but one of the biggest is the strong skill set that I have been able to develop. There is no doubt that online learning has helped students like me become independent and mature, and that will ultimately prepare us well for both higher education and the workforce.

For example, I have come to understand the importance of time management as a Florida Virtual School student, and I have also learned to embrace the sense of responsibility and self-discipline that is necessary to complete my academic workload.

This fall, when I head off to college, I won’t have to worry about ever falling behind in studies – and the reason is because online learning has taught me how to spring forward.

Aria Mori is a 12th-grade student at Florida Virtual School. She resides in Sarasota.

This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Florida students are reaping the benefits of online learning