INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Marian University Preparatory School is inviting families to learn more about its online approach to education.

The virtual panel event aims to give insight into how the K-12 school’s learning model empowers students while getting them ready for success in college.

The March 19 event, called MU Prep 101, will give families a closer look at how the school meets students’ needs while also focusing on academics, personal growth and faith-based values. There will be two sessions: one at 4 p.m. for K-8 grade levels, and another at 4:45 p.m. for high school. People will hear from current students, parents and teachers about how the online setting may benefit them.

Joe Heidt, executive director of MU Prep, said, “There’s some unique intricacies of it. For example, our parents. If you’re a parent of an elementary student, we refer to it as a learning coach. You’re going to be a little more hands-on than you would be if you’re dropping your student off at a facility that had a school with the teachers there.”

Heidt says there are many pros to having an online school setting as technology continues to expand. He says the virtual form allows Indiana students to access a quality education without barriers, whether they need additional support or may have academic challenges.

“It is actually preparing students for engagement in this century of how are you going to engage in a work-based professional career setting that’s similar to what the rest of the professionals are doing in our community, state and country.”

For high schoolers, Marian University also offers a program that allows students to earn dual credit, where students can take a college course that counts toward a high school credit.

Heidt says the goal of MU Preps learning approach can give students real-life insights into college life and how to be successful beyond that. “Because we’re part of Marian University their virtual high school that our students are able to take that in a virtual setting. There’s actually a high-flex classroom that was developed that allows our students to come in and they’re seeing through a flat top screen as well as a visual and audio so it’s as if they’re in the classroom.”

Heidt hopes future students and parents can leave the sessions with all of their questions answered. “Where they have a higher degree of comfort as to what the experience is like for them and their child and then to have an idea of what are the benefits of it.”

If you’re interested in registering for the session, click here.