Homeschooling with Bridgeway Academy Review- The Most Flexible Accredited School

Post updated: August 2024

Inside: Discover an honest Bridgeway Academy review from a homeschooling mom of 6 years. Learn about their flexible programs, accreditation, and support. Find out if it’s the right fit for your family’s homeschooling journey.

Navigating homeschooling can feel like exploring uncharted territory—there are so many choices, each with its own promises and pitfalls. Some families prefer homeschooling on their own, while some would feel better having guidance and support from experts while doing so.

If you’re looking for a solution that offers both flexibility and support, Bridgeway Academy might just be the hidden gem you’ve been searching for.

In this post, we’re going to take a closer look at what Bridgeway Academy brings to the table. From their personalized curriculum options to their live online classes and specialized programs, there’s a lot to unpack.

When I first started exploring homeschooling options, I knew we wanted something more than just a curriculum—I wanted an educational partner. That’s when we discovered Bridgeway Academy, and honestly, it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

We’ve been homeschooling with Bridgeway Academy for almost 2 years 6 years now and we couldn’t be happier. Here’s my Bridgeway Academy review and experience with them.

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About Bridgeway Academy

Bridgeway Academy is an accredited distance school that offers support and resources tailored to meet the diverse needs of homeschooling families.

For over 30 years, they’ve been helping parents craft personalized learning experiences that fit their kids like a glove. What’s great about Bridgeway is how they offer a variety of programs, whether you’re looking for a full-year curriculum, just a few online courses, or a mix of both. They’re all about flexibility, which makes it easy to find something that works for your child’s unique learning style.

But what really sets Bridgeway apart is the level of support they provide. From day one, you’re not going it alone—Bridgeway pairs you with an academic advisor who’s there to guide you through every step. Whether you need help with lesson plans, understanding your child’s progression, or just someone to answer your questions, they’ve got you covered.

And if you’re concerned about accreditation (and let’s be honest, who isn’t especially during high school?), Bridgeway is fully accredited (by Cognia and WASC- two of the most solid accreditations available). This means their programs meet high academic standards, which is a big deal when it comes to college admissions or ensuring your child’s education is recognized worldwide, wherever life takes them.

In short, Bridgeway Academy is all about empowering families to take control of their child’s education, offering the resources, flexibility, and support to make homeschooling not just possible, but incredibly rewarding.

Here every student benefits from an educational path that leverages their strengths, helps them overcome performance gaps, and inspires them to make a difference in the world around them!

Bridgeway Academy

Programs Offered by Bridgeway Academy

Bridgeway Academy truly has something for everyone, whether you’re new to homeschooling or a seasoned pro looking for that extra support. They offer a range of programs designed to fit different needs, learning styles, and family goals. Here’s a closer look at what they have to offer:

1. Homeschool Academy Accreditation– Your Own Curriculum, Accredited!

This is the program we’ve been using from Bridgeway Academy for the past six years, and we absolutely love the flexibility it offers. The Homeschool Academy Accreditation program is perfect for families like ours who want the freedom to choose their own curriculum while still benefiting from the accreditation of a solid, recognized program.

With this package, you get accredited record-keeping and transcripts, ensuring that your child’s education is officially recognized, which is especially important for college admissions or transitioning back to a traditional school environment.

You also have access to the Bridgeway Learning Center, which is a hub of resources that make managing your homeschool easier.

The academic advisor support has been a lifesaver for us, offering reliable guidance whenever we need it. And let’s not forget the parent and student community events—these have been great for connecting with other homeschooling families and building a sense of community, which can sometimes be missing in a homeschooling environment.

2. Homeschool Academy – Personalized Curriculum

For those who want a bit more customization, the Homeschool Academy package builds on the Accreditation program by adding a personalized curriculum.

This means Bridgeway helps you select the perfect blend of courses tailored to your child’s learning style and needs. Bridgeway Academy partners with over 40 vetted publishers to provide a wide range of curriculum options, from traditional textbooks to self-paced online courses. This allows you to tailor your child’s education to their learning style and interests.

On top of that, you get grading support from your academic advisor, so you’re not left wondering how your child is doing.

Another perk? Your child gets a subscription to Elephango.com, a resource-rich site that offers thousands of learning activities designed to make education fun and engaging.

3. Homeschool Academy Plus – Live Classes for Homeschoolers

If you’re looking for the most comprehensive option, Homeschool Academy Plus is where it’s at.

This package includes everything in the previous two packages—accreditation, customized curriculum, grading support—and then adds even more.

One of the standout features here is the option for live online classes. These classes bring the interaction of a traditional classroom right into your home, allowing your child to learn in real time with teachers and peers. Plus, there’s on-demand tutoring available, so if your child needs extra help, it’s just a click away. Teachers also provide grading and feedback, ensuring your child is staying on track and mastering the material.

Besides the three main programs for homeschooling, Bridgeway Academy is also offering help to families who might find themselves in need of more help:

HOPE: Homeschooling with Learning Disabilities

For parents homeschooling a child with learning disabilities, finding the right support is crucial. Bridgeway Academy’s HOPE program offers an effective solution tailored to meet these unique challenges. Unlike traditional tutoring, HOPE addresses the root causes of learning difficulties by retraining the brain to process and store information more effectively. This approach has proven beneficial for issues like dyslexia, ADHD, and processing disorders.

The program includes simple, targeted exercises that focus on improving key areas like reading, spelling, and comprehension. The results are impressive: 84% of students see significant improvements, with some advancing an entire grade level in just nine months.

Beyond academics, HOPE provides a strong support system. With the guidance of a dedicated academic advisor and a community of like-minded parents, you’re never alone in this journey. Bridgeway’s HOPE program doesn’t just help your child keep up—it empowers them to thrive.

In short, if you’re looking for a program that truly supports homeschooling with learning disabilities, HOPE at Bridgeway Academy is an excellent choice.

Earn an Associate Degree from Home

For advanced homeschool students eager to jumpstart their college education, Bridgeway Academy’s Homeschool Associate Degree Program offers an ideal solution. In just two years, juniors and seniors can earn both high school and college credits simultaneously by completing 10 to 11 college courses each year. By the time they graduate high school, they’ll have an Associate Degree in hand.

Key Benefits:

• Dual Credit: Each course counts toward both high school and college, accelerating your student’s educational journey.
• Accreditation: Accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, ensuring credits are widely recognized and respected.
• Support: Unlimited guidance from academic advisors who help craft a personalized plan to meet graduation and degree goals.
• College-Level Teaching: Courses are taught by college professors, providing a challenging and enriching academic experience.

This program is perfect for highly motivated students looking to gain a significant advantage as they prepare for their future—all while homeschooling.

Downsides of Getting an Associate’s Degree – International Considerations

While earning an Associate Degree can offer a head start on college education, there are downsides to consider, especially if pursuing it internationally. Domestically, an Associate Degree might limit job opportunities compared to a Bachelor’s, and transferring credits to a four-year college can be tricky.
Internationally, the degree may face recognition issues, making it harder to transfer credits or meet local accreditation standards, and cultural or language barriers could complicate the learning experience. Additionally, the degree might not be valued equally by employers, potentially affecting career prospects.

Dual Enrollment Homeschool Program

Bridgeway Academy’s Dual Enrollment Homeschool Program offers high school students the chance to earn up to a full year of college credits while completing their high school diploma. This program allows students to take up to eight college-level courses each year, which count toward both high school and college credits, giving them a significant head start on their college education.

Key Benefits:

• Dual Credit: Earn high school and college credits simultaneously, saving time and money on future tuition.
• Flexible Scheduling: Multiple start dates and course formats let students customize their learning schedule.
• Accredited Courses: Fully accredited courses ensure that credits are generally transferable to other colleges and universities.
• Expert Support: Dedicated academic advisors guide students through course selection and ensure alignment with graduation requirements.

This program is ideal for motivated students who want to accelerate their education and gain college experience while still in high school.

Downsides of Dual Enrollment (DE) vs. AP for International Students

How It Works

1. Enroll: Start by enrolling in the Bridgeway Academy homeschool program and select a payment plan that suits your needs.
2. Advisor Meeting: Meet with your dedicated advisor to review or customize your curriculum package.
3. Setup: Receive your curriculum and get signed up on the Bridgeway Learning Center and other essential platforms.
4. Begin Homeschooling: Dive into your homeschooling journey with the full support and accreditation that Bridgeway offers.

Accreditations, Certifications, and Awards

One of the things that reassured us when choosing Bridgeway Academy was their impressive list of accreditations and certifications. These aren’t just symbols—they reflect the quality and credibility of the education they provide, which is something we value highly as homeschoolers. Here’s what these accreditations mean for us:

• Cognia (formerly AdvancED): This global accreditation body is known for its rigorous standards. Knowing that Bridgeway is accredited by Cognia gives us confidence that their programs are continually evaluated and held to high educational benchmarks.
• The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC): WASC accreditation is widely recognized and respected, adding further credibility to the education our child receives through Bridgeway. It’s comforting to know that Bridgeway’s programs are held to such high academic standards.
• NCAA-approved: This approval is crucial for student-athletes who are considering playing sports at the collegiate level. The NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) sets strict academic standards for student-athletes, and having a homeschool program that is NCAA-approved means that the courses your child takes will count toward their eligibility to play college sports.
• Accreditation by the Pennsylvania Department of Education: This accreditation is a testament to the quality and rigor of Bridgeway’s educational programs, ensuring they meet the standards set by the state for K-12 education.

These accreditations have played a significant role in our decision to stick with Bridgeway Academy, knowing that our child’s education is not only flexible and customized but also respected and recognized wherever we go.

Finding the Perfect Fit – Why We Chose Bridgeway Academy

What really drew us to Bridgeway Academy was how they prioritize finding the perfect fit for each student, while also offering the flexibility that comes with accredited homeschooling. Honestly, I haven’t found another program that combines these aspects so well. My middle schooler thrives on a balance of structured learning and child-led exploration, and Bridgeway’s Homeschool Academy has been exactly what we needed.

Why we love it so much?

⭐️ Meets Us in the Middle

One of the standout features for us has been the ability to work at my son’s advanced level. He’s currently in middle school but is already earning high school credits in subjects like math (where he’s three grades ahead), IT, and German. This kind of flexibility is usually hard to find without sacrificing structure or accreditation, but Bridgeway allows us to have the best of both worlds.

The flexibility of home-based education with Bridgeway means I can customize my son’s learning experience to perfectly match his unique needs and interests. And the best part? We don’t have to compromise on accreditation or the quality of the education he’s receiving. With Bridgeway, we truly feel like we’ve found the perfect fit for our homeschooling journey.

⭐️ Support Every Step of the Way

Bridgeway’s support system has been incredible. From day one, our academic advisor has been there for us, offering guidance and reassurance whenever we need it.

Whether it’s help with choosing curriculum, navigating a rough period, or just checking in on our overall experience, their reliable guidance has made our homeschooling journey so much smoother. Knowing we have someone to turn to with questions, big or small, has taken so much of the stress out of homeschooling.

⭐️ Unparalleled Flexibility

One of the things we appreciate most about Bridgeway Academy is the unparalleled flexibility it offers. Homeschooling often comes with a trade-off—structure versus freedom—but with Bridgeway, we don’t have to choose. Their programs are designed to adapt to each student’s unique learning style, pace, and interests, allowing us to create a truly personalized educational experience.

This kind of customization isn’t something you typically find in other programs, especially those that are accredited.

What makes Bridgeway stand out is that, while we have this incredible freedom, we don’t have to sacrifice the benefits of an accredited education. Whether we’re choosing our own curriculum, enrolling in live online classes, or taking advantage of their comprehensive academic support, Bridgeway gives us the tools to make homeschooling not just possible, but optimal for our family. This flexibility is what allows us to meet my child’s needs today while setting him up for success in the future.

Why We Keep Coming Back

As we look ahead to the next few years, with my son about to start high school, we’re more confident than ever that choosing Bridgeway Academy was the right move. The transition to high school is a big step, but knowing we have Bridgeway’s support makes it feel manageable and even exciting.

Bridgeway offers so much more than just a homeschool program—they provide a true community, a strong support system, and a high-quality education that prepares kids not just for exams, but for life. Whether it’s the personalized curriculum, the flexibility to advance at your own pace, or the incredible support from academic advisors, Bridgeway ensures that every student has the tools they need to succeed.

If you’re thinking about homeschooling for the first time or considering a switch from another program, I can’t recommend Bridgeway Academy enough. It’s been a fantastic experience for us, providing everything we need to feel confident and supported in our homeschooling journey. I’m certain it could be the right choice for your family too.

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Practical Tips for New Homeschoolers

Getting started with homeschooling through Bridgeway Academy can be an exciting yet overwhelming journey. But with the right approach and a little preparation, you can set your family up for success right from the start.

Here are some practical tips to help you navigate your first year with Bridgeway:

1. Choosing the Right Program

• Consider Your Family’s Needs: Think about your family’s daily routine, your involvement level, and your long-term educational goals. Bridgeway’s flexibility allows you to integrate homeschooling into your life without sacrificing the quality of education. Whether you want a more hands-off approach or prefer to be deeply involved in day-to-day lessons, there’s a program that fits.
• Schedule a Call with Bridgeway Admissions Support: If you’re unsure which program is the best fit, don’t hesitate to reach out to Bridgeway’s admissions consultants. They can help you navigate the options and find the perfect match for your family’s unique needs. A quick call can provide clarity on program details, expectations, and how to get started, ensuring that you make an informed decision that aligns with your educational goals.

2. Setting Up a Homeschooling Schedule

• Create a Routine That Works: One of the best things about homeschooling is the ability to tailor the schedule to your child’s and family’s needs. Start by setting up a consistent daily routine, but don’t be afraid to adjust as you find what works best. Remember, flexibility is key—some days might need more focus on certain subjects, while others can be lighter.
• Incorporate Breaks and Extracurriculars: Don’t forget to schedule regular breaks and time for extracurricular activities. Bridgeway’s programs allow for this flexibility, so take advantage of it to prevent burnout and keep your child engaged. Whether it’s sports, music, or just downtime, these activities are essential for a well-rounded education.

3. Making the Most of Academic Advisor Support

• Utilize Your Advisor’s Expertise: Bridgeway’s academic advisors are there to help you every step of the way. Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions or concerns, whether it’s about curriculum choices, pacing, or even motivation strategies. They can provide invaluable advice and support to make sure your child is on track.
• Regular Check-Ins: Schedule regular check-ins with your advisor to review your child’s progress and make any necessary adjustments. This can help you stay proactive and address any potential issues before they become bigger challenges.
• Stay Connected: Take advantage of the community events and resources offered by Bridgeway. Connecting with other homeschooling families can provide additional support, ideas, and encouragement throughout your homeschooling journey.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can make the most of what Bridgeway Academy has to offer and create a homeschooling experience that is both enriching and enjoyable for your child. Starting off with a solid plan, staying flexible, and fully utilizing the resources available will help you and your family thrive in this new educational adventure.

Tests and Grading in the Homeschool Academy Accreditation Program

We’ve been part of the Homeschool Academy Accreditation program at Bridgeway Academy for the past six years, and over that time, we’ve really gotten to know how the system works.

I often get asked about how the tests and grading process functions, so I thought it would be helpful to share a breakdown of how it all comes together.

Submitting Tests and Work Samples

We are required to submit tests for each core subject. This ensures that all the work our child completes is properly documented and assessed. If the curriculum you choose doesn’t include built-in review sections or tests, you’ll need to create your own. Personally, I’ve found that using resources like Super Teacher Worksheets makes this task a lot easier.

Grading the Tests

Once the tests are completed, it’s up to us to correct and grade them. I prefer using a percentage system for grading because it’s straightforward and easy to calculate. To make the process even simpler, there are plenty of online calculators available that can help you quickly determine percentages.

Submission Process

You have the flexibility to submit the tests either after grading each one or all at once at the end of each semester. I find it more convenient to scan and submit everything at the end of the semester. This way, I can focus on teaching during the term and handle the administrative work in one go.

Navigating the Submission Process

One aspect of the program that can be a bit challenging is the submission process. It’s a bit disorienting at first because you need to download, fill out, and scan multiple PDFs before uploading them for review. While this process works, it could be greatly improved with an online form system, which would streamline the experience for both parents and teachers. Hopefully, Bridgeway will consider this in the future to make the process smoother and more user-friendly.

Final Review and Documentation

After submitting everything, your academic advisor or teacher reviews the tests, the corrections you’ve made, and the grades you’ve assigned before finalizing the transcript. Once everything is approved, you’ll receive the placement test results, the official transcript, and the diploma. These documents are available in digital format, and you can choose to print them yourself or order a professionally printed version online.

A Year with Bridgeway Academy : What to Expect as a Parent

For those new to homeschooling, here’s a general overview of what a year with Bridgeway Academy looks like from a parent’s perspective:

Galileo Benchmark Assessments

Imagine Galileo Benchmarks are a great way to get a clear picture of your child’s academic progress throughout the year. These research-based tests are designed to assess how well your student is grasping grade-level standards, providing valuable insights that help tailor instruction to their needs.

How It Works:

• Benchmark Testing: The first test of the year establishes a baseline for your child’s learning. Subsequent tests track progress, helping to identify growth in specific areas. Students must complete three benchmarks annually (reduced to two starting in the 2024-2025 school year).
• Student Login and Testing: Students access their tests via ClassLink and use unique passwords for each test (sent by the advisor). Tools like highlighting, note-taking, and review options help students navigate the test effectively.
• Results and Reports: After each benchmark, parents can view detailed reports in the Imagine Galileo K-12 Student-Family Center. These reports highlight the standards your child has mastered and those they are still working on.

Ready to Enroll? Here’s a Discount!

If you’re convinced that Bridgeway Academy is the right fit for your homeschooling (and I say this in complete honesty—this is not a paid endorsement!), you’re in for a rewarding experience.

If my review has been helpful and you’re ready to enroll, you can enjoy a 5% discount on your first child’s enrollment by using my coupon code: MONKEYANDMOM-BW24. *

Plus, you’ll automatically receive a 10% discount for any additional children.

I hope this review has provided you with valuable insights into what Bridgeway Academy has to offer!

*I do get a discount along with you when you use my coupon code.

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