“Every child has a different learning style and pace. Each child is unique, not only capable of learning but also capable of succeeding.” – Robert John Meehan

Florida Virtual School (FLVS)  offers two distinct online school options with the same shared goal: addressing the unique learning needs of every child.

As school counselors, we are often asked about the differences between FLVS Full Time and FLVS Flex. Parents want to know which option is best for their child. As they are very different schools, it’s essential for families to understand their options and choose the one that will best fit their students.

Don’t miss the infographic at the bottom of this post to help your decision-making!

What is FLVS Flex?

FLVS Flex offers year-round, rolling enrollment so students can start and finish an individual course at any time. Public, private, and home education students can utilize FLVS Flex courses. Students who choose not to attend a traditional public or private school can register as home education students in the county of their residence. A variety of learners can benefit from a flexible schedule, including those with medical needs, athletes, students who need to catch up, and those who want to get ahead.

With FLVS Flex, students have the option to focus on fewer courses and work at an accelerated pace to finish in less time. They can tailor a schedule that works for them! FLVS Flex teachers are available from 8 a.m.–8 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Home education students who take FLVS Flex courses are not required to participate in state standardized tests. However, if they plan to register in a Florida public school at any point in the future, they are welcome and encouraged to participate by contacting their local Home Education Office. Homeschool students with FLVS Flex do not earn a traditional high school diploma; instead, home education parents graduate their students by completing the Home School Affidavit.

FLVS Flex offers regular, honors, and Advanced Placement courses and home education students have the option to dual enroll at their local state college/university if admitted by those programs!

What is FLVS Full Time?

FLVS Full Time works much like a traditional public school, with the exception that students work from the comfort of their own home! Like in a traditional school, classes start in August and end in May and students have a load of six courses at one time. Teachers are available from 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. and the student’s day is more structured than in the FLVS Flex option with school-specific announcements and student activities.

Students are required to work in each course each week to stay on track with the traditional course schedule. FLVS Full Time also offers regular, honors, Advanced Placement, and dual enrollment courses. Since FLVS Full Time is a public school and serves as the student’s school of record, students are required to participate in all state standardized testing. FLVS Full Time coordinates testing and manages records for their students. Students enrolled in FLVS Full Time are public school students and therefore can earn a state-issued high school diploma. Students are also able to participate in a traditional graduation ceremony at the end of their senior year once all their graduation requirements have been met.

The similarities are important too!

Both options offer Florida public school curriculum taught by state-certified teachers. Resources abound with live, teacher-led lessons, guided notes, video tutorials, and more that are available to help our students. No matter which path they take, families can feel confident their students will receive a high-quality education that will take them forward in whatever their future holds.

Exploring online education options? Florida Virtual School may be just the solution for you.  Learn more about our online school options at Florida Virtual School.

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About the author: Anne Flenner, School Counselor, has worked to meet the academic, social, personal, and professional needs of FLVS students since 2011. Previously a school counselor in Alachua County, she has received several awards and serves on multiple state counseling boards and committees. She has a Master's degree in Counselor Education from UF. Anne loves working with student-athletes, supporting college and career readiness, and focusing on student mental health and wellness.