1. Program Overview & Structure
Q: What grade levels are included in the Online program?"
A: Our Online program covers Gr. 5-12
Q: Is the Online program fully teacher-directed?
A: Yes, our Online program is fully teacher-directed. Teachers are responsible for the planning, instruction and assessment of a student’s learning.
Q: Do students enrolled in the Online program follow the Alberta Education outcomes?
A: Yes, students in our Online program follow the Alberta Education outcomes.
Q: Do students in the Online program have live classes?
A: NorthStar Academy’s Online program is asynchronous, allowing students to work at their own pace within set deadlines. While most learning is independent, some courses may include optional live sessions for additional instruction, discussions, or Q&A.
Q: Is there flexibility in what resources I choose in the Online program?
A: No, in our Online program the resources used are chosen by the teacher.
2. Student, Parent & Supervisor Expectations
Q: How much time should students expect to spend on schoolwork each day?
A: Most students require about 5 to 7 hours per day (25–35 hours per week) for 36 weeks a year to complete our Online program.
Q: What is my role as a parent or supervisor?
A: In the Online program, parents and supervisors play a vital role in supporting and supervising their child's learning by helping them stay on track, checking progress regularly, and maintaining open communication with teachers. While teachers provide instruction and assessment, students perform best when parents actively encourage accountability and engagement. To learn more about the role of a parent or supervisor, please see our Parent and Supervisor Support Requirements.
Q: Are report cards issued in the Online program?
A: Yes, in our online program report cards are issued for every term and at the end of the year.
Q: Are teachers online every day, Monday - Friday?
A: Yes, full time teachers are online Monday - Friday during regular school hours (9 am - 3 pm).
3. Technology & Support
Q: What are the technology requirements for the Online program?
A: Students need a reliable internet connection and a computer (Chromebooks work for most courses). Some courses may require additional software or applications, which teachers will specify as needed. To learn more about NorthStar's technical requirements, please see our Reliable Technology Requirements.
Q: Are there opportunities to connect with teachers and classmates in person?
A: Yes! Our Community Connections program offers Activity Days, Learning Huddles, Equip Huddles, Impact Huddles, and Celebration Events across the province, providing students with opportunities to learn, collaborate, and build relationships in person and virtually. These events help foster a sense of community while complementing the online learning experience. To learn more about NorthStar's Community Connections program, please see our Community Connections page.
4. Costs & Funding
Q: Is there a cost to register for the Online program?
A: There is no cost to register in our Online program for Alberta residents. The only costs you may incur are shipping (if we mail books) or consumable workbook fees (depending on the course). For non-Alberta residents, tuition will be charged (please email office@nsaschool.ca for more info).
Q: Do you offer funding within the Online program?
A: Northstar Academy provide students in our Online program with the resources needed for the courses they register for. There is no additional funding.
5. Registration & Enrollment
Q: Are there deadlines or restrictions for registration?
A: Yes, primary students (those not enrolled in another school) must be registered by September 26th, 2025 at noon. Non-primary high school students (those enrolled in another school) can register until February 27th, 2026 provided they have a primary school registration by September 26th, 2025. Any questions about your student's eligibility for registration may be directed to our registrar at office@nsaschool.ca.
Q: Where can I register for the Online program?
A: Click here to register for the Online program.