A Friendly, Fresh Start in Online School

How We Help Online Learners Start Strong

Starting a new school should feel exciting, not overwhelming. At New Code Academy, we’ve designed an onboarding process that helps Minnesota students and families settle in quickly and feel part of a caring community from day one. 

A Warm Welcome 

Before classes even begin, students and parents connect with teachers and staff through orientation. These online meetups set clear expectations, answer questions, and help families feel at ease. Once classes start, teachers plan fun activities to get to know each child and create a welcoming space where students feel comfortable right away.

 

Clear Routines and Daily Virtual School Structure

Consistency helps kids thrive. That’s why we provide a predictable daily schedule—a blend of live teacher-led instruction, independent work, hands-on projects, and plenty of opportunities to collaborate with classmates. This balance gives students both structure and flexibility, helping them find a rhythm that meets their needs. Teachers check in often during the first week to make sure students understand their schedule, the platforms, and where to go for help. You’d be surprised how capable kids are with technology, even in Kindergarten! It’s exciting to see their confidence grow so quickly.

Teaching Students How to Learn Online

We don’t expect students to show up and just automatically be successful online learners. We believe it’s our job to teach those skills. From navigating digital platforms to staying organized, participating on camera, and managing time, we help students build habits that lead to success in online school.

“Our approach is grounded in research-based online learning interventions,” said Holly Skadsem, Digital Learning Coordinator at New Code Academy Elementary School. “When we notice a student struggling, our dedicated interventionist meets 1:1 with them to strengthen those skills and boost their confidence. It’s just one more way we make sure students feel supported and ready to learn.”

Building Friendship and Community in Online School

Connection matters just as much as academics. Students build friendships through group activities, class discussions, and virtual clubs. Parents also stay connected through communication with our teachers and staff, so families know they’re supported, too.

Confidence That Lasts Beyond Week One

By the end of the first week, students aren’t just “figuring it out”—they’re part of a school community that cheers them on. Our onboarding process helps learners see online school not as a challenge, but as an opportunity to start fresh, with structure, freedom, and support at every step.

Many families join New Code Academy because traditional school wasn’t the right fit. They stay because they discover the same high-quality education, taught by licensed Minnesota teachers using a certified curriculum, along with the added benefits of flexible learning and integrated computer science that prepare kids for the future.

Your Fresh Start Awaits

We welcome new students year-round. If your child needs a fresh start, our onboarding process ensures they’ll feel comfortable, confident, and ready to learn, right from the very beginning.