Frequently Asked Questions

How much does TOPS cost? 

Nothing. We are a public school and are tuition-free.

Do you accept students from anywhere in TN? 

Yes, as long as you can prove that you live in TN. 

What grades do you offer at tops? 

We serve students in grades K-12. 

What is the key to success at tops?

Communication is one of the most essential elements of success at TOPS! If you or your student experience problems or need assistance throughout the year, contact your teacher or the school office immediately. Please encourage your student to attend office hours for direct help from their teachers. It is also essential for students to make a schedule for the week, create a conducive learning environment free of distractions, socialize with other students/peers, and ensure physical activity/exercise is a priority each day.

Is there an age limit? 

TOPS is for students currently in grades K-12. We are not an adult learning program.

Do students receive a diploma? 

Students receive a TN state diploma or an official TOPS diploma, depending on the credits earned. 

Are you accredited? 

Yes, TOPS is a public school in the state of Tennessee.

Are you a credit-recovery program? 

No, we are not a credit-recovery program. However, we offer credit recovery for current students who failed a course with an overall score of at least 50%.

I am coming from a school that is on a year-round schedule. How does that affect my credits?

If enrolling in August, this should not affect your credits much. The counselor will meet and discuss your options with you if accepted. If enrolling in January, you will be given a schedule similar to what you were taking at your previous school. You cannot transfer over half-credits in the middle of the semester. The entire credit must be earned at the last school or TOPS.

How do I obtain my student’s records from their previous school?

As a parent/legal guardian, you can request copies of the student's most recent report card or unofficial transcript, IEP documentation, birth certificate, and immunization record from their file. DO NOT withdraw your student from their current school. We will send documentation to the previous school upon acceptance.

Can students learn at their own pace? 

With limits. We have weekly deadlines students must meet for attendance purposes. 

How many courses can students take a year?

High school (9-12) students can take eight courses annually. We are on a 4x4 block system where students take four courses per semester. Middle school (6-8) students will take four core classes (math, ELA, social studies, science) and one related arts class (these will rotate every nine weeks or semester).

Are you a homeschool program? 

No, we are a public school. 

What curriculum do you use? 

Our curricula are created by licensed TN teachers who teach for TOPS. We use state-approved, high-quality instructional materials and follow the Tennessee State Standards. 

Do students have to show up in person? 

Students must attend in person to take TNReady/End-of-Course and ACT/SATs. We have testing sites in Bristol, Greeneville, Knoxville, Middle Tennessee, and West Tennessee. These tests are required to remain a student at TOPS.

What software do you require? 

We provide all software free of charge to the students. 6-12 students can use any laptop (windows or Apple device) or Chromebook. K-5 students are provided with a device.  

Do you offer any accelerated courses? 

No, we do not. Our courses are too rigorous to be accelerated and still help the student have a happy, healthy life outside of school. 

If I attend TOPS, will I be eligible for the HOPE scholarship or TN Promise? 

Yes. 

Can I still participate in extra-curricular activities at my local school?

UPDATED: Due to a new TSSAA ruling, students attending online public schools outside their locally zoned school can participate with their local middle/high school athletic teams. However, please know the transfer rules if a student has attended the local school. Please get in touch with the local school to start this process as soon as possible. TOPS will work with all local schools to ensure students have the opportunity to participate on their local athletic teams.

For more information on virtual schools in Tennessee, please visit the TDOE link here.

For more information on the TSSAA, please visit the link here.