Welcome Aboard: The Online Learning Coach Journey
bySusan Cokas
4 min to readOnline learning, especially at a virtual public school, gives parents the opportunity to take part in their child’s education. Here, at Connections Academy®, we call this trusted adult a Learning Coach, and they work with our state-certified teachers to support their student through their schoolwork. But how do you get started being a virtual Learning Coach?
Preparing to become a virtual school Learning Coach is similar to preparing for a trip; before traveling, most people spend a few days or weeks organizing what they need to pack and may even buy a few things for the journey. As the new year of virtual school approaches, you may feel like you and your family are headed to a new destination. It can be daunting at first, but to help make this new, educational adventure a success, we’ve compiled a brief guide of suggestions to help you succeed in your journey as an online K–12 Learning Coach.
Bon voyage!
10 Steps for a Successful Learning Coach Journey
1. Become a good travel guide.

2. Chart your homeschool teaching course.
3. Book a room.
4. Check your bags.

5. Set your itinerary.
6. Keep moving ahead.
7. Stay on course.

8. Leave positive reviews!
9. Communicate with your captain.
10. Focus on the big picture of homeschool teaching.
You Are Not Traveling Alone!
Reach out and get to know the locals during your journey. You have the support of the faculty at your online school, assistance from tech support if you have computer problems, and the support from other homeschooling families you’ll meet along the way.
Check out more tips and tricks for online school parents—and enjoy the ride!
Editor's Note: Learning Coach tasks may vary by state.