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Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What are charter schools?
  2. What makes Focus Learning Academy different from a typical public school?
  3. What is the primary goal of Focus Learning Academy?
  4. How is the curriculum taught at Focus Learning Academy?
  5. Are there teachers available to help students with the learning process?
  6. What if I can’t use a computer?
  7. What are the courses needed to earn a diploma?
  8. Will the credits from my former school(s) transfer to Focus Learning Academy?
  9. What is a typical school year?
  10. What is a typical school day?
  11. If I have an IEP, will Focus Learning Academy recognize it and make necessary accommodations?
  12. Is there a school uniform?
  13. Is there transportation to and from the school?
  14. Will Focus Learning Academy have a graduation ceremony like public schools? How often will ceremonies be held?
  15. Is a diploma from Focus Learning Academy the same as a GED?
  16. What are the eligibility requirements for attending Focus Learning Academy?
  17. How long will it take me to get my high school diploma?
  18. How do I apply for admission to Focus Learning Academy?
  19. How much will it cost to attend Focus Learning Academy?
  20. Where is Focus Learning Academy Located?

  1. What are charter schools?

    • Public schools, sometimes called community schools, which are typically separate from city, public and parochial school districts.
    • Free—they do not charge tuition.
    • Open to all students who meet the age and enrollment requirements of the school.
    • Staffed with certified teachers who meet highly qualified requirements.
    • Required to administer state mandated tests and report results to the State.
    • Subject to local and state health and safety codes.
    • Governed by an independent Board of Directors

  2. What makes Focus Learning Academy different from a typical public school?

    • Students will receive personalized academic plans.
    • The daily schedule is flexible to better accommodate work and personal requirements.
    • Students work at their own pace.
    • Students have the opportunity to interact with teachers one-on-one.
    • Credits can be earned for working and/or volunteering

  3. What is the primary goal of Focus Learning Academy?

    The primary goal of Focus Learning Academy is to offer students a unique opportunity to earn their high school diplomas.

  4. How is the curriculum taught at Focus Learning Academy?

    Students will do most of their coursework on the computer. However, pull-out sessions are also offered. Every student will have access to a computer each day to study the courses assigned. All courses meet state standards.

  5. Are there teachers available to help students with the learning process?

    Yes. Highly qualified teachers are assigned to each classroom or lab.

  6. What if I can’t use a computer?

    The lead instructors will teach students new to computers the skills necessary to complete computer assignments.

  7. What are the courses needed to earn a diploma?

    Students must earn 20 credits and pass the Ohio Graduation Tests to earn a high school diploma. Thirteen credits must be earned in core subjects: four in English, three each in social studies, mathematics and science. The remaining 7 credits may be earned in various career focused learning tracks such as technology and fine arts. Students may also earn credit for their work experience.

  8. Will the credits from my former school(s) transfer to Focus Learning Academy?

    Yes. All passing credits previously earned in an accredited secondary school are transferable to Focus Learning Academy. The results of the State Graduation Test will also be accepted.

  9. What is a typical school year?

    The school year will begin in late August and end in June, similar to traditional public schools. The school calendar will also include time off for national and religious holidays typically taken by public schools.

  10. What is a typical school day?

    The daily schedule for each student is flexible and will accommodate work and personal requirements outside of regular school hours. Only five hours of actual in-school time are required each day. There are two periods a day to choose from: period one from 8:00am to 1:00pm or period two from 12:00pm to 5:00pm.

  11. If I have an IEP, will Focus Learning Academy recognize it and make necessary accommodations?

    Yes. A full-time intervention teacher is assigned to support students with special learning needs.

  12. Is there a school uniform?

    No, but a student ID will be provided, which students must wear at all times when on school grounds.

  13. Is there transportation to and from the school?

    The schools are located near COTA bus lines. Students may also be eligible for transportation assistance.

  14. Will Focus Learning Academy have a graduation ceremony like public schools? How often will ceremonies be held?

    Two graduation celebrations will be held each academic year, one in winter and the other in spring.

  15. Is a diploma from Focus Learning Academy the same as a GED?

    No, it’s better! Students graduating from Focus Learning Academy will be given a state certified high school diploma, which is fully recognized by prospective employers, colleges and universities.

  16. What are the eligibility requirements for attending Focus Learning Academy?

    Focus will enroll students between the ages of 16 and 22 who are not enrolled in another school.

  17. How long will it take me to get my high school diploma?

    Along with the Dean of Students, you will create a personalized academic plan leading to a high school diploma. Students need to keep in mind that it is not speed that counts; mastery is the goal for each course taken in the program.

  18. How do I apply for admission to Focus Learning Academy?

    It’s very simple. If you are between the ages of 16 and 22, the best way to get started is by calling (614) 322-7990 or the Focus Learning Academy location you would like to attend. A Focus staff member will answer your questions and set up an appointment to enroll. When you arrive to enroll, please bring the following required documentation to expedite the process: unofficial transcript, birth certificate, photo ID, social security card and proof of address (utility bill, lease agreement or bank statement).

  19. How much will it cost to attend Focus Learning Academy?

    FREE! There is no cost to enroll or attend.

  20. Where is Focus Learning Academy Located?

    There are three convenient locations in Columbus:
    Focus Learning Academy North
    4807 Evanswood Drive
    Columbus, OH 43229
    (614) 310-0430

    Focus Learning Academy East
    4480 Refugee Road
    Columbus, OH 43232
    (614) 269-0150

    Focus Learning Academy Southwest
    190 Southwood Avenue
    Columbus, OH 43207
    (614) 545-2000