Families often ask what a typical school day looks like in an online high school setting. While every student’s schedule is unique, daily life at NorthStar Academy blends structured coursework, flexibility, live interaction, and independent study.
To provide a firsthand perspective, we invited one of our high school students to share what a typical day looks like—from morning Bible study to live class calls, independent coursework, clubs, and evening routines.
The reflection below is written in the student’s own words and offers insight into how online learning at NorthStar Academy supports focus, organization, and meaningful connection.
Every school day looks a little different, but my routine as an NSA student helps keep me focused and organized from morning to night.
To begin my day, at around 7:50–8:00 a.m., I do my Bible study. Afterward, if I think it is a coffee day, I get myself some coffee before getting on my computer. Once I am settled, I check Teams and Outlook for anything new and to see if I have any messages from my teachers that may be answering questions I had.
Next, once I am logged into Buzz, I check for any grades and feedback from my teachers before I start my schoolwork. I like looking at feedback from my teachers because it helps me know what areas I could work on more and hear what else they may have to say about my work. In addition, it is always encouraging to be congratulated when I do well on an assignment, such as receiving digital stickers from Dr. Brooke Helling.
After checking feedback, at around 8:30–9:00 a.m., I officially start the day’s schoolwork. As I work, I usually listen to music that I enjoy unless I need to watch a video for a class. Also, if I completed my PE workout the day before, I make sure to write it in my log sheet so I do not forget later.
Around midday, between 12:30 and 1:30 p.m., I take a break from school for lunch and then return to my work as best I can. On days when I have NSA Live class calls, I eat quickly and prepare to join my classes. Before logging in, I double-check that I have my notebooks and Buzz open so I am ready to participate in activities and take notes. If I have questions about the calls, I usually message my teachers the day before so I can prepare ahead of time. After my calls, I check grades and feedback again before continuing with schoolwork and submitting assignments—while listening to music, of course.
During NSA Live classes, my classmates and I learn together as the teacher goes over lessons. When we are given an assignment, we break into smaller rooms to work together or discuss our opinions based on a prompt. When time is up, we are pulled back into the main room, and sometimes we rejoin unmuted while others are still talking, which is part of the fun of NSA Live calls.
Between calls, if I have extra time, I may treat myself to a small snack. After all, who doesn’t enjoy a treat during the school day? I especially enjoy the conversations my classmates and I have while working together and brainstorming in breakout rooms.
Beyond class calls, being an NSA student also allows me to interact with students from around the world on Teams. Throughout the day, I enjoy communicating with others while working on assignments. However, we all still have responsibilities, and schoolwork always comes first.
In addition to classes, as a high school student, I participate in clubs and fun calls called NSA Connects. These calls are similar to EVP classes but focus on engaging topics and building connections with others. In most of my courses, I am required to attend at least four NSA Connects calls per semester.
Finally, depending on how my day goes, I usually finish school around 6:00 p.m. After dinner with my family, I complete my workouts or strength training for PE. At the end of the day, I can finally relax and recharge before doing it all again the next day.
What This Day in the Life Reveals About Online Learning
While no two students follow the exact same routine, this reflection highlights several consistent elements of the NorthStar Academy experience:
- Structured graduation requirements and coursework
- Regular feedback from teachers
- Live class interaction and breakout collaboration
- Flexible pacing within defined deadlines
- Spiritual formation integrated into daily learning
- Opportunities for connection through NSA Live and NSA Connects
Online high school at NorthStar Academy is designed to balance independence with accountability and flexibility with structure. Students develop time-management skills while remaining supported by teachers, advisors, and peers.
For families exploring online high school, it can be helpful to understand both the academic framework and the daily rhythm of student life. You may find additional insight in our Online High School: A Complete Guide for Parents & Students.
If you would like to explore what a NorthStar Academy schedule could look like for your student, our Admissions and Academic Advising teams are available to answer questions and provide guidance.