Liberty University Online Academy hits record 20,000 students in K-12 homeschool program

More families around the world are seeking a faith-focused, flexible, and affordable homeschool option, and Liberty University Online Academy continues to meet the demand.

This month, the K-12 online program topped 20,000 students for the first time. Enrollment is 10 percent higher (over 1,500 more students) than the same time last year, with elementary, middle, and high school groups seeing comparable increases. LUOA has students from all 50 states and 100 countries, with 15 percent of students coming from military-connected families.

“Reaching 20,000 students is more than a milestone; it’s a reflection of the mission and impact of LUOA through our dedicated faculty and staff,” said Dr. Ron Kennedy, executive vice president of Enrollment Management & Marketing. “Each student represents a life being shaped, and we are honored to walk alongside every family as we continue to make Christ-centered K-12 education an affordable alternative.”

Families are drawn to the flexibility and convenience of the online format, where students can study at any location with an internet connection and complete coursework at their own pace. With a 10-month curriculum, families can decide to go year-round or add in their own breaks.

“As a family moves or circumstances dictate, our curriculum is a stable feature in their lives that never changes,” said Dr. Chris Rusk, LUOA dean and superintendent. “Every circumstance is different, and the flexibility of our online format allows us to meet the family’s needs beyond just academics and beyond what they would get through a different homeschooling curriculum.”

As a product of a university that pioneered distance learning, LUOA is known for its strong academics. Cognia, the parent organization of Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS CASI), recently reaffirmed its LUOA accreditation. LUOA is also accredited through the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) and is recognized by the Virginia Council for Private Education as an accredited K-12 private school in Virginia.

LUOA offers over 110 distinct K-12 classes and over 300 dual enrollment classes. Students can choose electives such as guitar, public speaking, and creative writing. From lessons to textbooks, media, and more, the curriculum is completely developed and designed in-house, which allows it to remain current with industry standards and stay rooted in a Christian worldview. In addition to one-on-one meetings with teachers and advisors, LUOA has also introduced “enhanced courses” that allow students to join their classmates in virtual meetings with instructors.

Liberty Online Academy is one of the top providers of dual enrollment education nationally, setting up high school students for success in college. More high school students are getting a jumpstart on their college careers by taking advantage of the offer for all eligible LUOA graduates to receive up to a 50 percent discount off tuition from Liberty University when enrolled as a residential student. Dual enrollment students are able to make a smooth transition to college, having already completed an associate’s degree and having become familiar with learning platforms and Liberty departments and faculty.

LUOA is led by experienced teachers with additional support from subject specialists and academic advisors. There are currently 336 LUOA teachers living out Liberty’s mission, with almost half holding advanced degrees. Many teachers have taught at LUOA for over 10 years.

“All of our teachers are actively engaged in their local churches and are grounded in their faith,” said Kelley Niblett, LUOA principal. “Our parents tell us how grateful they are for teachers who will love on their children and take an interest in their lives beyond their classwork. Our teachers and advisors often talk and pray with families, and they are there to help them through all the life changes that could impact their child’s education.”

Students can join clubs that help build a Christ-centered community. A variety of interests are offered, including Bible studies, cooking, STEM, creative arts, sports, computer and coding, drama, music, science, and more. There are also clubs for seniors who have chosen to attend Liberty University, helping to foster friendship and connection before arriving on campus.

LUOA partners with more than 147 schools across the globe through its affiliate program, expanding the schools’ course offerings and assisting many Christian schools that are unable to afford the cost of adding a high school option for their students.

LUOA launched in 2007 with less than 20 students. The program saw a dramatic rise in enrollment during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, when more families were seeking online alternatives to traditional schools.

For more about LUOA and to apply, visit Liberty.edu/LUOA or call (866) 418-8741.