by Regina Raccuglia
WSMV-TV, Nashville

Metro school students could be heading back to school earlier than ever if a balanced calendar is passed, but others won't even have to set foot in a classroom.

Some students might be able to graduate from middle school by taking classes at home through the virtual academy programs.

The online programs are helping students take their education into their own hands and on their own time.

School used to be scary for River Notestine.

"It really made me have nightmares about school, and I ended up making myself sick," said River.

Between academic issues and bullying from other kids, it was tough to learn in that academic setting, so he went online through a new program and went beyond the basic requirements for graduation.

Student Alexander Still wants to get his PhD someday and felt his Warren County classroom just wasn't giving him that opportunity.

"I just wanted to do well in life. Get a good job and stuff like that," said Alexander.

He joined River and enrolled in virtual classes offered through a national company called K12. They have a contract with Union County, TN, but they offer online courses for students across the state.

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