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Fairbanks B.E.S.T. Program
The Fairbanks B.E.S.T. Program (Fairbanks BEST Online, B.E.S.T., BEST) is based in the Fairbanks North Star Borough School District in the US state of Alaska. BEST is committed to a framework in which the home is supported by the community as a viable educational alternative.
In 2010-2011 it had 210 students enrolled.
Students may choose among these learning modes:
- Online Learning Program: Students in 6-12th grades enroll in a minimum of four courses through the Advanced Academics private online learning programme. Any student residing within Fairbanks School District boundaries who does not have a high school diploma and is in grade 6-12 may apply to enroll in the BEST Online Program. Students may take up to two classes in the classroom.
- K12 Homeschool Program: K-12 curriculum-based students will receive four classes of (private) K12 curriculum.
- Allotment Based Homeschool Programme: Students K-12th receive an allotment for purchasing curriculum materials of their choice that align with an Individual Learning Plan (ILP) and state standards.
The Fairbanks BEST Online Programme web site is at http://www.fairbanksbest.com/main.html
More Details
Students are eligible to participate in athletics, music programs, and other extra-curricular activities at their attendance area schools according to district/state guidelines. They may enroll in up to two classes at local district schools, and are assigned a certified educational coordinator.
BEST offers free tutoring for its students by appointment.
References
- "A National Primer on K-12 Online Learning", iNACOL, October 2010, http://www.inacol.org/research/docs/national_report.pdf
- Fairbanks BEST Online Programme web site, http://www.fairbanksbest.com/main.html
- "Keeping Pace With Online Learning: An Annual Review of Policy and Practice", Evergreen Education Group, 2010, http://kpk12.com/reports/