FAQs
Minnesota Online School FAQs
What grades are offered by Insight School of Minnesota (ISMN)?
Insight School of Minnesota currently offers grades 6–12.
Is ISMN really tuition-free?
Yes. Because we are a public school, we operate under the same state guidelines as traditional public schools. This means we receive the same funding as a traditional school, and no tuition is required.
Does the program provide textbooks and other instructional materials?
Yes. All instructional materials are provided to students to ensure they're successful in the program. For students who qualify for educational benefits, a computer will be loaned.
What if my child is behind on credits or failing classes?
ISMN specializes in addressing the needs of struggling students. Our remediation programs help students get back on track. We develop an individualized plan to ensure every student has a roadmap to success that’s specific to them.
What are the location and age restrictions?
Students must be residents of the state of Minnesota and must be 20 years of age or younger when they enroll. Students who turn 21 while enrolled and need additional education in order to receive a diploma may remain enrolled until they meet the graduation requirements or the end of the school year, whichever occurs first. High school students must also be able to demonstrate completion of the eighth grade through official transcript or homeschool portfolios.
Can students enroll and begin classes at any time of the year?
Students can submit an enrollment application anytime during the year and, once approved, start at the next scheduled start date.
I've been expelled. Will I get into ISMN?
Each case will be reviewed based upon records from your current or former school district. As a Minnesota public school, current expulsions from another district may be honored.
What subjects will my child study?
Language arts/English, math, science and history are core courses. There are also other courses in the appropriate grade levels such as art, health/PE, music, and world languages. High school students can choose from a variety of electives, including career-focused electives. Students can also access credit recovery courses.
Can my child work at their own pace?
Middle school and high school programs provide flexible learning environments. Each program includes weekly assignments, scheduled lessons and activities, and assignments with set due dates. Optional and required instructional sessions are scheduled throughout the week to support student learning. Students have the flexibility of creating a schedule that enables them to complete academic work and receive teacher support throughout the day.
How much time will my child spend online?
We expect that middle school students will spend more than 60 percent of their time online. High school students will spend 80+ percent of their school time on the computer. Students also do hands-on science experiments, read novels, and complete math problems that are done without the computer.
How do students interact socially?
Students spend time with classmates online and through school outings, field trips, esports, community service, and other activities. Families can get together in their local communities through our private Facebook groups. In addition to school-based clubs, Stride K12 online national clubs help connect students with like interests and passions.
Do you provide curriculum for students with special needs?
Depending on a child's IEP, we can tailor your child’s learning experience to meet their needs. To discuss your child's needs with us, please contact our office, and we'll put you in touch with our special education team.
