Shining a Spotlight on: The Anglesey Family

One of the many benefits of online learning? The ability to receive an amazing education anywhere in the world. For the Angleseys, that means Scarlet, a 9th grader at Holston Academy, learns at a high level as the family lives abroad in Lake Atitlan, Guatemala.

“Holston Academy has brought our family closer together as we continue to live abroad,” said Aimee, Scarlet’s mom. “We’re taking advantage of online education, and we are happy we found Holston Academy because it’s the first online school [we’ve found] to match Scarlet’s academic abilities.”

Learn more about Scarlet and why the Anglesey family believes that Holston Academy works for Scarlet.

“Holston Academy has brought our family closer together as we continue to live abroad.”
– Aimee Anglesey

Finding a fit with flexibility

If you ask both Aimee and Scarlet, they’ll tell you that flexibility is their favorite part of online learning. Scarlet, a thoughtful and contemplative student who prefers books to movies because “there’s something about getting lost in the pages of a story that captivates me,” says that online learning changed her life for the better.

“Online schooling has given me the freedom to manage my time more independently, which has been a game-changer for me,” she explained. “The best part of online school is the flexibility.”

So, what does Scarlet do with her time outside of school? “I enjoy writing, cooking, and playing music,” she said. “Online school gives me more time to pursue these interests.”

A typical day for Scarlet

Scarlet usually starts her day with breakfast followed by online classes. Once her classes are complete, Scarlet spends time studying while sprinkling in breaks throughout the day. She enjoys history class the most because she’s “fascinated by the stories of the past and how they shape our present and future.”

Though it may seem trivial, online school also allows students to work where they are most relaxed. In Scarlet’s case, it’s her bedroom “because it’s quiet and comfortable.” This seemingly minor benefit is actually quite significant; students comfortable in their surroundings tend to perform better in school.

Why Holston Academy works for Scarlet

Not all online learning is equal. Many options out there simply provide the courses, then you’re on your own. Others offer a limited course selection. The Anglesey family opted to enroll Scarlet at Holston Academy because of the rigorous and challenging coursework as well as the built-in support of teachers and Academic Coaches who want nothing more than to see their students succeed.

“Educationally, Scarlet has already been able to take an AP^Ⓡ college-level class in 9th grade,” said Aimee. “Personally, attending Holston Academy has improved her self-esteem. But the most beneficial part of Scarlet learning online with Holston Academy is the teacher participation.”

Scarlet agrees with her mom.

“My experience at Holston Academy has been positive, and I’m grateful for the support of my family and teachers.”
– Scarlet Anglesey, Holston Academy student

“The entire experience of working with my teachers and Academic Coach has been a positive memory,” Scarlet said. “They have helped me develop a daily schedule and prioritize tasks effectively.

“Their support and encouragement have made my academic journey fulfilling and rewarding.”

For parents and students still weighing their education options, Aimee suggests “keeping your children on their own personal schedules and taking advantage of different levels of coursework and language classes” when considering whether to make the transition to online school.

Scarlet is certainly grateful that she made the switch. “My experience at Holston Academy has been positive, and I’m grateful for the support of my family and teachers.”

For more information on Holston Academy and our education options, visit https://holstonacademy.org/about/approach/.