By: Anne Flenner, FLVS Flex School Counseling Manager

As a school counselor at Florida Virtual School (FLVS), I have the privilege of supporting homeschool families and students. Some are brand new to homeschooling, and others are returning with fresh goals and renewed confidence. Whether you’re just beginning your FLVS journey or you're a seasoned virtual learner, one of the most powerful tools for success is a well-thought-out schedule.

At FLVS, we believe that learning should be flexible, personalized, and empowering. But with that flexibility comes the need for structure, especially for families navigating online learning from home. Here's how you can build a homeschool schedule that balances learning goals with everyday family routines.

Why a homeschool schedule matters

A consistent schedule is one of the most valuable tools in a homeschool environment, especially when learning virtually. It provides a sense of routine and predictability, which helps students feel more secure and focused throughout the day. With a clear plan in place, students can better manage their time, stay motivated, and take ownership of their learning.

A consistent schedule helps students:

• Stay on track with course pacing and deadlines.
• Build time management and organizational skills.
• Reduce stress and increase confidence.
• Balance academics with family life, extracurriculars, and downtime.

Additionally, for parents, a schedule provides clarity, reduces daily decision-making, and creates a rhythm that supports the whole household.

A step-by-step guide to building your FLVS homeschool schedule

1. Explore flexible individual courses 

Homeschool students utilize our individual courses (FLVS Flex) option. FLVS Flex courses are great options for families who want maximum flexibility because you can create a custom schedule that fits your lifestyle. For example, since  FLVS Flex is a curriculum provider, and not a public school district, families can choose when students start and how many courses to take at a time. 

2. Start with the end in mind

Here are some sample yearly schedules for high school students, from our Home Education Guide:

Elementary and middle school students are not required to take specials/electives and may choose to focus on four core courses from August to May by following the traditional pace chart below:

There are more options for scheduling, and lots of other information and resources to help you with your homeschool journey in our Home Education Guide.

3. Choose a daily scheduling style that fits your family

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Consider these popular styles:

Block Scheduling: Focus on two to three subjects per day in longer time blocks.

Loop Scheduling: Rotate subjects in a flexible loop, ensuring everything gets covered without rigid daily assignments.

One subject a day: Focus on one subject a day and complete all assignments due for the week on one day.

Insight: FLVS Flex students typically spend four to six hours per day on coursework, depending on grade level and course load.

4. Create a weekly template

Use a planner, spreadsheet, or digital calendar to map out your week. Include:

• Core subjects (math, language arts, science, social studies).
• Live lessons or teacher office hours.
• Breaks, lunch, and physical activity.
• Independent reading or enrichment.
• Family time or group learning.

5. As a parent, you are a learning coach 

As a homeschool parent, think of yourself as a coach and organizer. If you can help your child plan, they have more time to focus on their learning. 

It’s helpful to print your child’s pace charts and check in each week to ensure they are completing the work in the gradebook. The pace charts show what your child should be working on. 

Pace Charts

To find the FLVS pace charts:

1. Log in to your FLVS parent account by going to the FLVS homepage and clicking “login” and then “FLVS FLEX.” The login button is on the very top of the homepage.
   
2. Once logged in, click on “Take me to: Virtual School Administrator,” where you will see the Dashboard.
   
3. Scroll down to see all your students’ courses.  
   
4. Click on the course you’d like to view by clicking the orange “course” button.
   
5. Find the pace chart on the right side of the first page, under “Teacher’s Announcements.” Additionally, you can find pace charts at the top of the page under “Tools” > “Student Information” > “Course Information.” There you will see “Pace” in the first column.
   
6. By clicking “Pace,” you can then save or print the pace charts. You can choose: 

• Traditional pace chart: Complete the course in 32-36 weeks. 
• Accelerated pace chart: Complete the course in 16-18 weeks.
  

Students can do more than the minimum for the week, but they can’t do less.  

Gradebook

To check your student’s grades in the gradebook, find the course listed in your parent account.   Locate the blue bar at the top of the page and click “gradebook.” Here you can review students’ submitted work and current grades, and the teacher’s feedback. You can use the gradebook and pace chart to cross-check your students’ weekly progress. 

6. Build in flexibility

One of the greatest benefits of FLVS Flex is the ability to adjust your schedule as needed. Unlike traditional schooling, where bells and rigid time blocks dictate the day, FLVS empowers families to create a learning rhythm that fits their unique lifestyle. Whether you’re juggling multiple students, working from home, or managing extracurricular activities, flexibility is key to making virtual learning sustainable and enjoyable. Embracing this flexibility doesn’t mean sacrificing structure - it means building in space for real life. 

Leave room for:

• Catch-up and rest days.
• Field trips or hands-on learning.
• Appointments or family events.

Tips and tricks for a smooth routine

• Start with a morning routine: A consistent start to the day sets the tone. Include breakfast, light exercise, and a quick check-in on the day’s goals.
  
• Use the Learning Management System, Educator, daily: Encourage students to log in each morning to check announcements, pacing guides, and upcoming assignments.
  
• Incorporate brain breaks: Short movement or mindfulness breaks boost focus and reduce fatigue.
  
• Plan weekly, adjust daily: Review your schedule each Sunday and make small adjustments as needed.
• Create a dedicated learning space: A quiet, organized area helps students focus and signals that it’s time to learn.
  
• Involve your child: Let them help plan their week or choose the order of subjects. This builds ownership and motivation.

Resources for Parents

FLVS offers a wide range of tools to support your child’s homeschool journey. Here are some helpful resources:

• Student and Parent Resources: Includes academic tools, webinars, planning guides, and student support resources.
• Home Education Guide: Everything you need to know about home schooling with FLVS.
• Live lessons and teacher support: Students can attend live sessions and receive one-on-one support from certified teachers. 
• Pacing guides: Available in each course to help you stay on track.
• FLVS Quick Start videos: These videos help families who are new to FLVS and online learning. 
• FLVS Help Center: Offers FAQs, tech support, and more.
  

Here’s to a great year ahead

Homeschooling with FLVS is more than just an educational choice; it’s an opportunity to craft a learning experience that reflects your child’s strengths, interests, and pace. With the right schedule, you’re laying the groundwork for academic growth, personal development, and family connection. But remember, flexibility is part of the journey. It’s okay to make adjustments, try new approaches, and learn alongside your student. Be patient with yourself, celebrate the small victories, and lean on your FLVS Flex teachers and counselors. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

To find more information about the FLVS Flex Counseling team, check out the counseling and advisement page.