Some Fleetwood Students Trade Classrooms for Computers

Last year, Gaige Klein sat in a crowded classroom, frustrated by constant conflicts with teachers who didn’t seem to understand him. Now, he logs in from home, completes his lessons on his own schedule, and spends his afternoons working on his car. For him, switching to online school has made learning less stressful and more flexible.

Across Fleetwood, some students are moving away from traditional classrooms and turning to virtual learning programs. Whether because of mental health, flexibility, or personal preference, online school has become an increasingly common choice. This shift is changing how students manage their time, connect with peers, and experience education.

Online schooling gained popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic when many students chose to learn virtually in order to prevent spread of the disease. Even after in-person classes returned, some students realized they preferred the independence of learning from home. Virtual programs now offer full-time alternatives to traditional education, with options ranging from state-run cyber schools to district-approved online academies.

Participants in Fleetwood say online learning gives them more control over their schedules and reduces stress. Some switched to balance school with work, while others need more time for mental health or family responsibilities. Online programs allow students to complete assignments at their own pace and take breaks when needed—something not always possible in a physical classroom.

“I feel like I can actually focus now,” Wyatt Hartman, a Fleetwood student who switched to online school last year, said. “I don’t have to deal with distractions or get up super early. It’s easier to stay calm and get everything done.”

Teachers also recognize both sides of the shift. “Online school can be a great fit for self-motivated students,” one Fleetwood teacher said, “but some students struggle without the structure and social interaction that come with being in person.”

A study from Drexel University’s School of Education supports this idea, noting that online learning improves time-management skills and independence but may cause isolation for those who miss face-to-face interaction.

For some students, the mental health benefits are the biggest reason to stay online.

“When I was in regular school, I was always anxious,” Klein said. “Now, I can take a break if I need to and focus when I’m ready.”

Still, not everyone thrives in a virtual setting. Some students find it difficult to stay motivated or miss social events like sports, dances, and pep rallies.

“It can get lonely,” Hartman said. “You really have to make the effort to stay connected with friends.”

As schools improve their digital options, online education continues to grow. Some programs now offer live video classes, tutoring sessions, and virtual clubs to help students stay engaged. Whether for flexibility, mental health, or personal goals, the online shift shows that learning no longer has to only take place inside a classroom. For Fleetwood students like Klein and Hartman, education now fits their lives—instead of the other way around.