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NorthStar Academy isn’t your average online school. Spend time with us, and you’ll learn that NSA is connected, personal, and rapidly changing the way over 3,000 4th-12th graders receive their education.

5 Ways to Keep Elementary Students Engaged Online

November 7, 2025

If you’ve ever watched your child start a school day bright-eyed and curious, only to find them fidgeting, daydreaming, or sliding out of their chair by lunchtime, you’re not alone. Learning online can be an incredible opportunity for elementary students, but keeping…

Homeschool Hybrid vs Online School for Christian Families

November 4, 2025

Christian families often struggle with the difficult internal debate of homeschool vs. online school, or even online school vs. public or private school. Each method provides unique benefits and challenges, which can make the decision feel overwhelming. For familie…

The Hidden Cost of the Attention Economy: How to Reclaim Control of Your Mind and Time

October 23, 2025

Have you ever stayed up way too late on your phone, computer, or game system? You meant to go to sleep, you really did! But every time you went to put down the screen, there was just one more thing that caught your eye. One more video, post, monster to kill or loot to…

NorthStar’s Accreditations and Associations

October 21, 2025

NorthStar’s mission is to foster Christlike character in the next generation by combining biblical values, global connections, and academic excellence. For many students, that journey begins with preparation for college. Because accreditation plays such a vital role i…

Reimagining Education with AI: Valuable Conversations for Families

October 16, 2025

When AI tools like ChatGPT burst onto the scene, many parents wondered how they would affect their child’s learning. These tools can be powerful, but they also raise an important question: How do we help students use AI wisely without losing sight of what matters most…

Reimagining Education with AI: Why Relationships Still Matter Most

October 14, 2025

Think back to some of your most meaningful learning experiences. Chances are, you weren’t learning in isolation. Maybe it was a teacher who inspired you, a group project where your classmates stretched your thinking, or a mentor at work who guided you through a real c…

Reimagining Education with AI: Building a Thoughtful Schoolwide Plan

October 10, 2025

Why Schools Need a Plan for AI When ChatGPT was first released to the public in November 2022, most of us didn’t realize how quickly it would impact our world and the way students learn. Suddenly, kids had access to a tool that could write essays, solve problems, a…

Reimagining Education: How AI Helps Us Teach Smarter, Not Just Faster

October 8, 2025

When people think about AI in education, the first image that often comes to mind is a chatbot replacing a teacher. But the true benefits of AI in education reach far beyond that, and at NorthStar Academy we believe there are many opportunities for AI to be used thoug…

Shaping Thoughtful Learners in the Age of AI

October 6, 2025

If you turn on the TV, listen to a podcast, or scroll through social media, you’ve likely been inundated with opinions about artificial intelligence (AI) and its role in education. Some hail it as the future of learning, while others warn of its dangers. At NorthStar…

How a Biblical Worldview Shapes Online Learning at NorthStar Academy

September 25, 2025

At NorthStar Academy, every subject is taught through the lens of God’s Word. Math, science, literature, and even electives are presented with a Christ-centered perspective, helping students connect their studies to a deeper understanding of God’s world and their plac…

How Online Learning Builds Independence and Life Skills in Students

September 23, 2025

When families think about online school, they often picture laptops, assignments, and virtual classrooms. But online education offers much more than academics—it’s also a powerful training ground for independence and essential life skills. At NorthStar Academy, we’…

A Parent’s Guide to Transitioning from Public School to Online Learning

September 18, 2025

More and more families are making the switch from traditional public school to online Christian education. Whether the reason is seeking a safer environment, desiring faith-based teaching, or needing more flexibility, the transition can feel overwhelming at first…

How Accredited Online Christian Schools Support College Readiness

September 16, 2025

When parents begin considering online Christian education, one of the first questions they ask is: “Will this prepare my child for college?” It’s an important question—after all, your student’s high school years lay the foundation for future opportunities. The good…

Homeschool vs. Online School: Which Is Right for Your Family?

September 11, 2025

Choosing how your child will learn is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent. Two popular options today are homeschooling and online Christian education. While they share some similarities, they also provide different structures, support systems…

7 Study Habits of Successful Online Students

September 9, 2025

Online learning opens doors of flexibility, but it also requires strong study habits to thrive. At NorthStar Academy, we’ve seen what works for students who excel in a digital environment. Here are seven proven habits that help online students stay on track, reduce…

Why Online Learning Prepares Students for the Future of Work

August 29, 2025

How NSA Builds Skills That Translate Beyond the Classroom The world of work is changing — fast. Employers aren’t just looking for degrees; they’re looking for adaptable, self-motivated problem-solvers who can thrive in a digital, global environment. At NorthStar…

Top 5 Reasons Homeschool Parents Choose NorthStar Academy

August 27, 2025

Choosing the right partner for your homeschool journey is a big decision. You want flexibility, strong academics, a Christ-centered focus, and a sense of support and belonging — without giving up control of your child’s education. That’s exactly why thousands of ho…

How to Build a Custom Homeschool Plan with NSA Courses

August 25, 2025

One of the greatest joys of homeschooling is the ability to tailor your child’s education to fit their unique needs, interests, and learning pace. But that kind of customization can also feel overwhelming — especially when you’re searching for academically solid, bibl…

Flexible Doesn’t Mean Alone: How NorthStar Academy Partners with Homeschool Families and Co-Ops

August 21, 2025

Homeschooling offers something deeply valuable: the freedom to shape your child’s education around your values, your schedule, and your child’s unique learning style. But even the most seasoned homeschooling families sometimes need a little extra support — whether it’…

What Makes a Great Online Student? Traits for Thriving at NSA

August 19, 2025

Online learning opens a world of opportunity — flexible schedules, personalized pacing, and global connection — but it also comes with unique responsibilities. At NorthStar Academy (NSA), we’ve seen thousands of students thrive in our Christ-centered virtual classroom…

Navigating Online Courses: Tech Tips & Encouragement for Your NorthStar Journey

August 15, 2025

Starting something new always comes with a learning curve—and starting an online school is no exception. From navigating digital platforms to understanding tech requirements, we know that for many families, diving into online education can feel a bit overwhelming at f…

Clubs, Contests, and Connections: How Online Students Build Real Friendships at NSA

August 13, 2025

Community Matters — Even in a Virtual World One of the most common questions we hear from prospective families is: “Can students really build friendships at an online school?” At NorthStar Academy (NSA), the answer is a resounding yes. Our students don’t just…

Global Learning, Christ-Centered Community: What Online Education Looks Like at NorthStar Academy

August 11, 2025

When people hear the phrase “online school,” they often imagine something cold, disconnected, and impersonal — just students behind screens completing assignments on their own. At NorthStar Academy (NSA), nothing could be further from the truth. We are a Christ-…

What’s the Difference Between Honors, AP®, and Dual Credit — and Which Is Right for My Student?

As your student progresses through high school, you may hear about advanced academic options like Honors, AP® (Advanced Placement®), and Dual Credit courses. These terms sound impressive — and they are! But they also come with important distinctions. At NorthStar A…

Raising Kids with a Biblical Worldview in a Digital World

In a world where screens never sleep and worldviews are just a scroll away, parents are facing a new kind of challenge: How do we raise kids to think biblically in a culture that often thinks the opposite? At NorthStar Academy, we believe this is one of the most im…

From Elementary to Graduation: What a Complete 4–12 Journey Looks Like at NorthStar Academy

Choosing the right school is about more than academics — it’s about finding a place where your child can grow spiritually, intellectually, and socially over time. At NorthStar Academy, we’ve designed our fully accredited online Christian school to support students thr…

What Sets NorthStar Academy Apart in the World of Online Christian Education

In today’s fast-growing online education space, families have more options than ever when it comes to choosing the right school for their child. But with so many programs claiming to offer “Christian education” and “flexible learning,” how do you know which one truly…

Who Is Entrepreneurship 1 For?

NorthStar Academy’s new Entrepreneurship 1 course isn’t just another elective. It’s a transformational, Christ-centered journey designed for students from all walks of life who are ready to think boldly, act faithfully, and build something real. Here’s how this cou…

Entrepreneurship with Eternal Purpose: Mrs. Sullivan’s Vision for Students

👋 Meet Mrs. Sullivan Hello! I’m Jen Sullivan, and I’m thrilled to be joining the NorthStar Academy team as the new Entrepreneurship 1 teacher. This course combines two of my greatest passions: equipping students with real-world skills and encouraging them to think…

What Does It Mean to Have a Christ-Centered Entrepreneurial Mindset?

At NorthStar Academy, our new Entrepreneurship 1 course isn’t just about starting a business—it’s about transforming how students see challenges, purpose, and their calling. So, what exactly is an entrepreneurial mindset? It’s a way of thinking that blends growt…

New Course Spotlight: Entrepreneurship 1 – Think Boldly. Lead with Purpose.

NorthStar Academy is excited to introduce a brand-new elective for the 2025–2026 school year: Entrepreneurship 1 (Flex)— a course not just about business — but about character, resilience, creativity, and purpose. In this engaging course, students will dive into th…

State Voucher Programs: Exploring Education Funds for Your Family

More and more families across the country are taking advantage of state-funded education programs designed to give them greater choice in how their children learn. Today, over 18 states offer school voucher or education savings account (ESA) programs that allow parent…

Navigating State Voucher Programs: Tools and Resources for Families

As more states across the U.S. embrace school choice, state voucher and education savings account (ESA) programs are opening doors for families who want more control over their child’s education. These programs allow parents to use public funds for alternative educati…

State Voucher Programs: A Smart Pick for Families

Across the U.S., state voucher programs are empowering families with choice and opportunity. These programs allow parents to use public education funding—typically allocated per student—to enroll their children in private or alternative schools of their choosing. Here…

Mastering Self-Control: The Key to Student Success

In today’s digital age, self-control is one of the most valuable skills students can develop. With distractions everywhere—from social media to video games—learning how to stay focused, manage time effectively, and balance priorities is essential for academic succ…

Mastering Problem-Solving Skills: The Key to Student Success

In today’s fast-paced world, problem-solving skills are more important than ever for students. Whether tackling challenging coursework, overcoming obstacles in daily life, or preparing for future careers, developing the ability to think critically and embrace chal…

Mastering Time Management: Essential Tips for Parents and Students

Time management is one of the most critical life skills that impact academic success, productivity, and overall well-being. Children who develop strong time management skills are better equipped to handle schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and personal respon…

Mastering Organization: How a Structured Environment Enhances Learning and Self-Management

In the digital age, where distractions are abundant, mastering organization skills is essential for students to excel academically and maintain focus. A well-organized physical and mental space fosters productivity, reduces stress, and improves overall learning ou…

Mastering Self-Management: How Planning Boosts Productivity and Academic Success

In today’s fast-paced world, strong self-management skills are essential for students and professionals alike. One of the most effective ways to improve self-management is through planning—a fundamental strategy that enhances organization, time management, and goa…

The Importance of Self-Management Skills in Children: A Parent’s Guide to Evaluating and Enhancing Executive Functioning

In today’s fast-paced world, self-management skills are more crucial than ever for children to thrive academically and personally. Strong executive functioning skills help students manage time effectively, stay organized, regulate emotions, and complete tasks inde…

Why Supervisors Matter in Online Learning: Key Strategies for Student Success

In the world of online education, students have more flexibility than ever. But with that flexibility comes a challenge: staying organized, motivated, and accountable. Supervisors play a crucial role in this. Whether they are parents, guardians, mentors, or tutors…

Success Looks Different for Everyone: Mastering Self-Management for Academic and Personal Growth

In today’s fast-paced learning environment, students need more than natural skills and hard work to succeed. One of the most critical skills for academic achievement is self-management—the ability to regulate thoughts, emotions, and actions to reach goals efficien…

Exploring the Benefits and Opportunities of NorthStar Academy

August 21, 2024

In today’s fast-paced, digital world, education has transformed significantly. Traditional classrooms are no longer the only option, with online learning platforms providing flexible and accessible alternatives for students worldwide. For families seeking a faith-base…

NSA Live (EVP) & NSA Flex (VRP): What is the difference?

At NorthStar Academy, we recognize the diverse needs of our families and offer two main programs: NSA Flex, our Virtual Program (VRP) and NSA Live, our Enriched Virtual Program (EVP). Let’s take a look at each program and break down the similarities and differences…

Navigating the World of Online Education: Understanding Accreditation

February 6, 2024

In the ever-evolving landscape of education, parents seeking online schooling options for their children in grades 4-12 often grapple with the question: Are online schools accredited? Will my student receive the same level of education that they could get in our local…

Is Homeschooling for Us: Ten Things to Consider

January 12, 2024

Written by Emily Nichols There are many things to consider when deciding if homeschooling is right for your family. Here is a list of ten thoughts, written by NSA teacher, and homeschool mom, Emily Nichols. (1) Consider the “why”–Is your family moving toward a…

Christian Feasting and the American Thanksgiving Holiday

November 20, 2023

Written by Dr. Bill Carroll History of Thanksgiving The first recorded celebration of Thanksgiving on the North American continent was in 1578 on Newfoundland. An English minister named John Wolfall presided; records indicate that in 1607, another similar ce…

How NorthStar Academy Partners With Homeschool Families

November 10, 2023

Homeschooling is an exciting and rewarding decision that opens up many possibilities for your child’s education. As you consider this path, you may be wondering about the best way to provide a well-rounded and comprehensive learning experience. That’s where NorthStar…

Online Christian Education: Fostering Strong Moral Values

October 4, 2023

At NorthStar Academy, we believe that an online Christian education and strong moral values are integral to shaping well-rounded, ethical individuals in our society. Our approach to learning combines academic rigor with a faith-based perspective, providing students an…

Faculty in Online Christian Schools: An In-Depth Exploration

September 29, 2023

The faculty in online Christian schools play a pivotal role in shaping the future of students. Their influence extends beyond mere academics, instilling values that last a lifetime. Finding online Christian schools with such passionate teachers can be challenging…

Choosing the Right Online Christian School Curriculum

September 24, 2023

Choosing the right online Christian school curriculum can be a daunting task for parents. The decision is not only about academic excellence, but also nurturing faith and values in your child’s education. An online Christian school curriculum, when chosen wisely, p…

Addressing Online Christian School Challenges

September 19, 2023

The switch from conventional classroom instruction to digital classrooms has been a steep challenge for many educators and pupils. While the 2020 COVID pandemic forced teachers online, students and educators had to quickly adapt and transition into an entirely new for…

Adapting to an Online Christian School: A Guide for Parents

September 14, 2023

Adapting to an online Christian school can be a significant shift for both parents and students. This transition often brings about questions of academic rigor, socialization opportunities, and spiritual development. The switch from traditional or homeschooling env…

Confronting Bullying at School: A Guide for Parents

August 31, 2023

Bullying at school is a pervasive issue that demands our attention as a nation. Parents worry most when their children are off to school, as bullying is a widespread issue that requires attention and has long-term impacts on the child’s mental health. The impact of bu…

Rising Popularity of Christian Online Schools Explored

August 27, 2023

The popularity of Christian online schools is an emerging trend worth exploring. As technology progresses, the educational field is undergoing a transformation. Recently, there has been a significant rise in the number of families opting for Christian online schools f…

Transitioning from Traditional to Online Christian School

August 23, 2023

Making the change from traditional to online Christian school is a difficult task for many households that are accustomed to conventional learning. The shift requires not only technological adaptation but also a reevaluation of routines and habits. It’s an entirely ne…

Why Should You Choose An Accredited Online Christian School?

August 19, 2023

Why Should You Choose An Accredited Online Christian School? This is a question many parents and students grapple with when exploring educational options for their children. An accredited online Christian school offers more than just an education. It provides a holist…

Embracing the Flexibility of an Online Christian School

August 15, 2023

The flexibility of an online Christian school is a game-changer in the realm of education. This innovative approach to learning allows students and families to navigate their educational journey with ease. The concept of flexible schooling, once a distant dream, has n…

Finding the Perfect Online Christian School for Your Child

Choosing an online Christian school can be a daunting task. In reality, when it’s time to make that decision, the main concern for most parents is selecting the right online Christian school for their child. As a parent, you know that this choice could significantly i…

Things that May Surprise You about Online School

An online school doesn’t have to lose any aspects of a brick-and-mortar school—at least that’s what NorthStar Academy believes. So many people think that education suffers when learning from home, but it simply isn’t true. Since the school opened in 1998, NorthStar Ac…

Exploring the Benefits of Online Schooling: Flexibility, Cost-Effectiveness, and Tailored Learning

Online schools offer a unique and flexible alternative to traditional brick-and-mortar schools. They provide students with the opportunity to learn from anywhere, at any time, and can offer a variety of benefits for both students and their families. One of the majo…

Online School: A Solution for Missionary Families on the Move

Being a missionary family can be a wonderful and rewarding experience, but it can also be challenging when it comes to finding quality Christian education for your children. Frequent moves and travel can disrupt traditional schooling and make it difficult for your chi…

Balancing Extracurriculars and Academics: How Online Learning Can Help

Participating in extra-curricular activities can be an incredibly enriching experience for students, but it can also be challenging to balance the time and energy required with the demands of their academic studies. Online learning can provide an ideal solution for st…

Online School: The Perfect Supplement for Homeschool Families

Homeschooling is a wonderful option for families who want to take a more active role in their child’s education. But, as with any educational path, it can be challenging to provide your child with a well-rounded education that covers all the necessary subjects. That’s…

NorthStar Academy’s short story contest winner

We are excited to feature one of our NSA students who recently won the short story contest. Our students are so creative! The Wielder Scarlet was late. Again. For the third time that week, she scrambled to get ready. How would it look for the kingdom if the pri…

How to Guard the Hearts of Our Children

February 3, 2023

My daughter plopped down on the bed as we began a discussion regarding her recent misbehavior. “It’s my heart, Mommy. I’m still struggling with bitterness!” She was exacerbated by her little brother’s mischief and desperately wanted to retaliate. Conversations on matt…

5 Reasons to Track your Habits

January 12, 2023

As the new year starts, people all over the world are making strides towards their new year’s resolutions. While resolutions may not be for everyone, we can all agree that the new year brings hope for what is to come and a refreshing mindset to look ahead. This outloo…

Navi’s First Trip Around the World

November 22, 2022

Recently, Navi had the awesome opportunity to travel the globe in celebration of the 25th school year at NorthStar Academy. He left the USA and headed to Malaysia. While in Malaysia, he was able to visit numerous students taking NorthStar courses who are also enrolled…

A Student’s Look at NorthStar’s Veterinary Science Course

November 4, 2022

For as long as I can remember, I have always dreamed about a class that taught about animals. It wasn’t until I came to NorthStar Academy that I realized this dream is a reality! NSA offers a semester-long “Veterinary Science: The Care of Animals” course tha…

Easy Steps to Study the Bible

September 23, 2022

If I am being honest, learning how to study the Bible didn’t come easy for me. I found it hard to understand and I wasn’t sure if I was really grasping the context of what I was reading. I eventually got a Study Bible, but even that was daunting. Finally, I just start…

A Word for the Class of 2022

“Since the world began, no ear has heard and no eye has seen a God like you, who works for those who wait for him!” Isaiah 64:4 NLT My oldest son loves studying about the solar system. He continually shares facts and figures about space. Did you know that Satu…

Recognizing Burnout Symptoms

The word “burnout” is frequently used, but what comes to your mind when you hear this term? I know I often think of reaching the point where I can’t go on, when everything seems tough, impassable, and just really hard. Recently, I asked a group of people what they bel…

Preparing for AP Exams

Good day, AP© students, parents, and supervisors. The AP© exams are just around the corner. The 2022 AP© Exams are being held from May 2 – May 13. You have been working hard all year to get to this point and we, your AP© teachers, the Administration of NorthStar Acade…

Speak Life to Others

Let’s start by stating something that is obvious to all of us: the world we are living in is difficult and has been for awhile now. No matter where you live, life looks very different than it did two short (or maybe long) years ago. I don’t know about you, but I’ve so…

Finding Peace in the Present

Let’s start by stating something that is obvious to all of us: the world we are living in is difficult and has been for awhile now. No matter where you live, life looks very different than it did two short (or maybe long) years ago. I don’t know about you, but I’v…

Delight in the Details

January 27, 2022

Every year around February, I start to get excited about springtime. I look forward to the holiday season all year, but something about the long month of January just puts me in the mood for spring. I look forward to the warmer temperatures, planting new flowers in my…

Worship in the Waiting

December 29, 2021

Have you ever noticed that most of our lives can be broken down into small seasons of waiting? Waiting to be able to drive; waiting to graduate high school or college; waiting to meet “our person;” waiting for engagement, marriage, or until the day you can pu…

Share Your Shadow

December 20, 2021

I truly enjoy asking and thinking about this question and recently asked it in my small group. Some responses were pop cultural, such as “Like a Good Neighbor, State Farm is There” or “Please won’t you be my neighbor” from Mr. Rogers. Then we settled int…

Enriched Virtual Program Q&A

Are you interested in enrolling your student in our online program but aren’t sure if you need EVP or VRP courses? You are in luck! NSA Director, Stephanie Shafer, and EVP Lead Teacher sat down to provide an EVP Q&A session to help families better understand the d…

Study Tips for a Successful Online Learner

November 19, 2020

As an Academic Success Coach for students, I cannot tell you the number of times students have said, “I just need to study harder!” When I hear this statement, I often counter with the question, “But what does ‘harder’ actually mean? What does that look like to you?”&…

Tips for Success in a Self-paced Learning Environment

October 29, 2020

I have to admit – organization has been one of those skills that I have had to actively work at improving over the years. When I was a student, I was that kid desperately filtering through piles of paper at the bottom of my locker looking for my homework, but as…

Creating an Effective Learning Environment for an Online Program

September 17, 2020

In 2020, more students than ever in history are participating in online or distance learning environments. Apart from learning how to navigate new learning systems, prioritizing assignments, and having the ability to stay on task with lower levels of accountability, o…

Set your Child up for Success

My wife has worked in sales for years, and one of her phrases is, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” This phrase holds true for a number of areas in life. As a teacher, I knew that the first few days of the school year were very impo…

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