Script to Skyline: How Keystone Gave Emma the Freedom to Act, Travel, and Excel Academically

Emma and her family, based in North Carolina, were seeking more academic rigor and began looking for a better fit. They found The Keystone School, and it became more than just a place for learning.

“I wasn't very happy in the traditional school environment, and I wasn't feeling academically challenged, so I expressed an interest in switching to online school,” Emma explained. “This was around the COVID-19 era, so online school was new for us, but I liked the self-paced learning. I do act as well, so it became easier scheduling-wise to do online school, it just seemed like a no brainer.”

Keystone offered an environment that challenged Emma, supported her passions, and gave her the flexibility to seize big opportunities.

Dual Enrollment

Emma’s journey at Keystone expanded into college-level work through dual enrollment courses — a step she says has been challenging but invaluable as she prepares for the next chapter.

“I really enjoyed dual enrollment. I found it challenging in a new way. Keystone itself is challenging but switching to college classes I felt like I got something new and it’s preparing me because it’s faster paced” she shared. “Sometimes I can struggle with time management, so having the deadlines has really helped me and doing dual enrollment has gotten me back into a rhythm. The transition period into college is going to be so much smoother now.”

Through these courses, Emma has explored a variety of subjects while fulfilling general education requirements for college.

“I've taken a writing class, a math class, a history class, and a science class, so kind of every subject,” she said. “The science and English were my favorites.”

Flexibility for Passions and Travel

For Emma, Keystone’s flexible schedule has been a game changer both for her acting career and for life outside of school.

“Being able to enroll at any time is so helpful. I can do school over the summer, take some workload off, or take two weeks of school off to film something, it’s been key,” Emma shared. “I can submit assignments early to get ahead and give myself time to get things done.”

Her mom notes that this flexibility extends beyond academics.

“We’ve been able to travel during periods where we wouldn’t have been able to if she were in a traditional in-person school,” she said. “The flexibility is also great for things that happen in life, not just extracurriculars. If something comes up at home, knowing that she's okay if she doesn't get to school that day takes a lot of pressure off us as parents.”

That freedom has opened the door to unique experiences.

“Last year, we spent a month living in France,” Emma said. “I was able to do school during certain periods of the day, then explore. In Paris, for example, one morning we had an appointment at a ceramic café to paint mugs. Then I was able to do school in the afternoon and be productive, while also having those experiences.”

Academic Growth and Preparation for the Future

Keystone has challenged Emma academically in ways she didn’t anticipate, and it’s paid off.

“Before Keystone, I didn’t write at all. Switching in eighth grade meant reading novels and writing papers again,” Emma said. “It was daunting at first, but the more I did it, the easier it became. Now, I can write with confidence and have gotten great feedback on my writing. I feel prepared.”

Her dad agrees.

“Be prepared for the rigor. Coming from a traditional school, it’s a big step up in terms of learning and assignments. There’s no participation grade, no easy A’s. It’s hard at first, but it pays off in the end.”

Now, as Emma heads into her senior year, she’s focused on what’s next.

“I only have two courses left before I graduate, so I can focus on my college applications,” she said. “I’m grateful that I worked through Keystone the way I did. It’s set me up for success.”

Learn More

To learn more about The Keystone School, visit www.keystoneschoolonline.com.