Impact of School Shutdowns
A recent study published in Epidemiology highlighted once again the detrimental effects of school closures and remote learning on children’s mental and emotional well-being. Certain groups were affected more severely, particularly those from financially insecure backgrounds. This isn’t a surprising conclusion, as both parents and students expressed dissatisfaction with remote learning.
Rise in Online Learning for Athletes
Despite the widespread agreement that online schooling is less beneficial than traditional education, a notable trend has emerged since the pandemic: the surge in online schooling for young athletes, particularly tennis players. Many parents believe that allowing their children to train extensively during the day while managing academics will enhance their athletic advancement. As a parent of a competitive tennis player, I’ve noticed that online schooling is becoming the norm rather than the exception for serious junior players, leaving only a few of us in traditional schools.
ICL Academy’s Growth
Take ICL Academy, for example, which has become the largest online school for tennis players. According to COO Dayton Hansen, enrollment has soared by 4,300% since 2020, with around 532 competitive tennis players currently enrolled from both the U.S. and abroad. This growth reflects a long-term shift as families seek ways to allow their children to thrive academically without sacrificing training and competition.
Socialization Concerns
Addressing potential concerns about socialization in online schools, Hansen stated that social interaction is a fundamental part of their program. They prioritize in-person gatherings and events, such as participating in tournaments like the Junior Orange Bowl, to foster connections among students.
Parental Perspectives
Parents like Meg Stratton have found that enrolling their child in an online program has simplified their hectic lives while better accommodating their travel for tournaments. Similarly, Laura Lafors felt that the timing was right for her son to transition to an online school, allowing him more time to train and flexibility for competitions.
Dwight Global Online School
Dwight Global Online School has also experienced significant growth, doubling its enrollment since 2020. Vice Chancellor Blake Spahn emphasized that their programs offer a blend of online and optional in-person activities, catering particularly well to families in the New York City area, albeit at a higher price point compared to other online schools.
Conclusion on Future Trends
While many families are satisfied with online schooling, some parents have reported their children struggling with this setup. Experts believe that online learning can suit high-performing athletes or those with social adjustment issues. As the trend continues, it will be interesting to see how traditional schools adapt, especially given our increasingly diverse approach to education.
