The end of the school year is approaching, so now is a great time to reflect on this past school year. Your child has grown and changed so much over the past several months. Have they had a great school year? Found a rhythm, connected with teachers? Make the progress you expected?
But perhaps they haven’t. Maybe something this year felt off. Maybe something just wasn’t clicking, for your student or your family.
You’re not alone in wondering: Is this still the right school for my child?
In Wisconsin, the end of the academic year doesn’t just bring finals and field trips—it also marks a key decision point for families. Thanks to the state’s public school open enrollment program, you can choose a new public school that better fits your child’s needs, including tuition-free virtual options like Fox Valley Virtual School (FVVS).
Whether you’re considering a change due to learning challenges, family circumstances, or a desire for more flexibility, now is a good time to assess what’s working and what needs to be improved.
Looking at the Bigger Picture
Sometimes, it’s clear that a school isn’t a good fit. But often, the signs are subtle. They show up daily—what your child says after class, how motivated (or unmotivated) they are to learn, and how they feel about themselves as a student.
Some questions to ask yourself:
- Does your child feel comfortable and supported in their learning environment?
- Are their academic and emotional needs being met?
- Has school become a source of stress or anxiety—for them or your family?
- Do they seem bored, frustrated, or unengaged with the material?
- Is getting your child ready for school a battle every morning?
- Are you constantly trying to supplement at home because the classroom isn’t enough?
If you find yourself saying “yes” more than “no,” it might be time to explore what else is out there.
Understanding Your Options in Wisconsin
Many parents don’t realize they can switch public schools outside their home district. Wisconsin’s school choice open enrollment program allows K–12 students to attend public schools in other districts, including fully virtual schools like FVVS.
This isn’t about giving up on traditional school but finding a better fit. Virtual learning isn’t right for everyone, but for some families, it’s the opportunity they didn’t know they needed. Online learning offers a different pace, a different structure, and, in many cases, a different way to be seen.
Through FVVS, students across Wisconsin can access:
- A tuition-free public education
- Certified Wisconsin teachers who provide personalized, responsive instruction
- A structured but flexible schedule that adapts to the student—not the other way around
Whether your child is ahead, behind, or simply out of sync with traditional schooling, virtual learning can offer a more supportive and individualized experience.
Why Some Families Make the Switch to Online School
Every family’s story is different. Some are navigating complex learning needs. Some are managing complicated family matters like split households, health concerns, or work schedules that make traditional school hours difficult. If your student is losing their spark because of issues at school, it might be time to consider a new option.
One parent shared:
For our family, Fox Valley Virtual was a blessing. At our local public school, behavioral and safety issues made it hard for teachers to focus on students who were ready to learn. Our son was only in first grade, but he was already being bullied—and struggling to keep up, especially with writing. Learning needs to start with a positive environment and teachers who have the support and tools they need to educate. FVVS works hard to make sure both the students and the staff have the support they deserve. — Fox Valley Virtual School Parent
These shifts aren’t just academic—they’re emotional, relational, and deeply personal. When children feel safe, supported, and seen, their capacity to learn and grow changes dramatically.
Timing Matters
Wisconsin’s open enrollment period for the 2025–26 school year runs through April 30, 2025. This makes it the ideal time to reflect on the past school year, ask questions, and explore new possibilities.
Switching schools doesn’t have to be a big, dramatic decision. It can be a thoughtful step toward finding a better fit—one that gives your child the environment they need to grow.
If you're not ready to make a change just yet, that’s okay, too. Some families wait, try another classroom, and reassess in the fall. At Fox Valley Virtual School, we also offer mid-year enrollment into our online school, because we understand that the right moment looks different for every family.
No matter what path you choose, know this: we're here and ready when you are.
What to Look for in a New School
If you’re considering making a change, look for an environment that:
- Prioritizes relationships and communication between teachers, students, and families
- Offers flexibility without sacrificing structure or support
- Adapts curriculum and pace to the needs of the learner
- Fosters a sense of connection and belonging between students and teachers and between students and their peers
- We know that families aren’t just looking for something different—they’re looking for something better. Something that truly works for their child.
The Bottom Line
Changing schools can feel like a big step. But staying in a situation that’s not working can have long-term effects on your child’s confidence, well-being, and love of learning.
If this school year has raised more questions than answers, consider this your invitation to explore.
The right school does more than teach—it supports, listens, and helps students grow. If you’re not seeing that where you are, it’s okay to look elsewhere.
And if we can help you navigate that journey, we’re here.
