Starting a new high school year at Heritage Christian Online School (HCOS) is an exciting opportunity to grow academically and spiritually – while also learning how to manage your time, goals, and responsibilities. Whether you’re new to HCOS or returning, here are five essential tips to launch your year with confidence.
1. Connect Early with Your Academic Advisor
Your Academic Advisor is your go-to person for course planning, graduation tracking, and post-secondary prep. They’ll help you design a personalized high school path that suits your goals—whether that includes trades, university, or something in between.
They will help you with course selection, make recommendations for your future course pathway and support you along your journey.
2. Set Healthy Routines and Accountability
- Prioritize sleep, nutrition, and breaks
- Create a weekly schedule for coursework – when are you going to work, on what, and what are your goals
- Set up regular check-ins with your parents or guardians to talk about progress and challenges
- Use the Pacing & Progress tool in Brightspace to track your assignments and stay on schedule
- Connect with your course teacher – if you get stuck, reach out right away. They are happy to help you progress with your course work
3. Use the Student Success Centre (SSC)
The Student Success Center is here to help you succeed with practical supports like:
- 1-on-1 coaching on time management, motivation, or academic challenges – come for help with math or building out a schedule for your week
- Group workshops like “Get It Done!” or “Schedule-Making”
- Personalized help at any point in the semester
4. Stay Engaged in the HCOS Community
One of the best parts of high school is growing in community. HCOS offers a variety of ways to connect beyond academics:
- Student Council – for leadership and service. Be a part of planning events for your fellow students and teachers, make friends, and showcase those leadership skills
- CREW – a cohort model for Grades 8–9 focused on connection and transition
- Breakfast Club – a weekly drop-in for the sharing of God’s word, connection, and community
Velocity – our middle school drop-in program for students ready to lead with purpose, build community and learn about God’s word together - Travel Programs – consider joining a travel program such as Adventure Discipleship or SEALs
- In-person events, camps, trips, and service opportunities near you through our Learning Groups division
5. Plan Ahead for Graduation & Beyond
These years lay the foundation for what comes next. Your Academic Advisor can help you:
- Track your graduation progress – from credits to courses, we are here to make sure you meet all the requirements
- Explore post-secondary pathways or other programming
- Consider gap year, missions, or career options that match your values and gifts
Let’s Get Started!
High school at HCOS is flexible, faith-based, and personalized to support your growth. Starting well makes all the difference—and we’re here to walk with you every step of the way.
Need help? Reach out to your Academic Advisor or visit the Student Support Centre
Want more information? Visit the high school website here!
