What Online School Looks Like: A Student Day in the Life Q&A With Ateka

By: Ateka B., 9th grade student and SAC intern

SAC Blog Series: Each year, the K12 Marketing Department hires a cohort of high school interns known as the Student Advisory Council or SAC. This year, the talented group of students is creating social media content across platforms to help build brand awareness and engage our audiences around the online learning experience.

Let’s get to know these amazing SAC students. We asked them what makes online school so great, and here’s what Ateka had to say.

My K12 Why

What do you like about online school?

I really like that I can work at my own pace and have a more flexible schedule. I don’t have to rush between classes or deal with big crowds. It’s a lot more chill, and I can focus better without all the distractions.

Why does online learning work for you?

It works for me because I feel more in control of my learning. I can take breaks when I need to and come back when I’m ready. I’m doing better in my classes now since I’m not as stressed.

Why did you switch to online school?

Switching to online school made a big difference. It gave me space to focus on learning. I could just be myself without worrying about what people were going to say or think. It helped me build confidence again, and now I actually enjoy school and feel a lot more positive overall.

My Online School Day

Can you tell us about your workspace?

My workspace is a little corner in my room where I’ve set up my desk, laptop, and some shelves. I’ve got a comfy chair, my headphones, and a couple of things that make it feel like my own—a vision board, some cute family pictures, and a little desk plant.

Can you describe a typical day and week for your virtual school experience?

A typical day starts with me logging in around 7 AM. I check my schedule and see what assignments or live classes I have. I usually do a couple of subjects in the morning, take a break for lunch, and then finish the rest in the afternoon.

I have live sessions with my teachers, and on other days I just work independently. My weeks are pretty balanced. I try to finish most of my work by Friday so I have a lighter day at the end of the week.

Can you tell me more about your teachers?

All my teachers are really supportive and easy to talk to. Even though we’re not in a physical classroom, they’re always available through messages, email, or live sessions. They check in often and make sure we’re staying on track. It’s nice because it feels like they actually care.

What kind of classes are you taking right now?

I’m currently taking English 2, algebra, biology, world history, and an art class. I also have a PE course where I track physical activity, which is cool because I can choose what I want to do for the activity.

What activities or hobbies do you like to do in your free time?

In my free time, I love to draw, play video games, and shop. I also spend time with my family.

I LOVE reading, especially when it’s something I’m really into. It’s a good way to relax and kind of escape for a bit. I’m really into mystery books. I love the feeling of being on the edge of my seat. I like books with strong characters and cool worlds you can get lost in.

The flexibility of online school definitely helps me fit all that into my week because I can manage my schedule better. If I finish school work early, I have more time to do the stuff I enjoy without feeling rushed.

My Future

Do you feel like online school is helping you prepare for the future?

Definitely! Online school is teaching me how to manage my time, stay organized, and be more independent. I know I’ll need those skills in college and life in general. It’s also helping me get comfortable using tech and learning online, which is a big part of most jobs nowadays.

Thank you, Ateka! To learn more about the K12 Student Advisory Council, visit their webpage, or see how your high school student can thrive in online school with K12-powered programs.

Ateka is a 2025 student at a K12-powered school in TX, and their statement reflects their experience at their school.