TheHomeSchoolMom may earn affiliate commissions from purchases made using links on curriculum reviews pages. Read our full disclosure.
Ignite Christian Academy is the K-12 online school of Alpha Omega Publications. With multiple start dates each month, your family can decide when to begin enjoying the assurance of an accredited private school. Ignite Christian Academy also includes incredible teacher support and individualized learning plans, as well as dual credit for college and graduation ceremony opportunities. Choose from full-time enrollment or individual course enrollment.
Website: Ignite Christian Academy (formerly Alpha Omega Academy)
Post Your Review »
(143 Reviews)
Before investing in any homeschooling resources, please read "How to Choose the Best Homeschool Curriculum."
Contributor Reviews
Reviews are solely the opinions of the contributor.
Cons: If you're not used to working on a schedule, it might take a little bit to adjust.
Grades Used: 9, 10, 11
Our family has 2 children currently enrolled in AOA's Online Ignitia Academy and we will be enrolling our third next year. My son is currently a Junior and my daughter is currently a Sophmore. This is our second year with AOA, and we love that AOA's curriculum is rigorous and thorough and that almost everything is done online. My husband and I wanted a program that would get them college ready, was accredited, had flexibility, and had courses that were NCAA certified as our kids are all competitive swimmers. Having the peace of mind that they have a challenging curriculum, have teachers that offer office hours and daily/weekly emails, keep parents in the know with several phone calls and emails from both teachers and our Educational Coordinator, is an incredible asset to me as a parent. AOA has also been great with working with us for outside credit electives and courses and general course counseling. Initially, both my children struggled through the workload, mainly because they weren't used to working through a rigorous schedule so quickly. We always worked at our own pace and around everything else. Once they were able to figure out the scheduling and workload requirements, their performance improved and we're seeing solid, reputable work and pretty good grades. Our kids have also utilized such things as AOA's Online classes offered monthly on various subjects like study skills, college readiness, and specific subject topics. We feel AOA is a great value for everything you get: challenging curriculum, flexibility, online learning, college readiness, teacher availability and response, and educational resource support. We definitely recommend it to our friends or family that have asked about homeschooling.
This is our first year with AOA. My Grandson has grown academically this year due to the one on one teaching. I am able to know what he is doing in each subject and should he need any assistance I am able to help. I like to be interactive with him. The school, staff and teachers make it very easy for me as they do all the work and I provide my Grandson with support and the ability to attend AOA.
Thank you AOA.
Cons: some questions are too rigid in the answers, so while your child may know the answer they might get the question wrong.
Grades Used: 5th
I taught 5th grade at a Christian School last year. This year we have decided that my daughter should be homeschooled, she is in 5th grade now. She is doing excellent. Both the school admin. and her teacher has been very responsive to our needs, sometimes daily. She is very motivated and ahead of her scheduled end date. Mrs. Brady is awesome. We really like AOA.
Cons: Nothing
Grades Used: 7-12
Alpha and Omega
We were extremely happy with after the school. Our coordinator went beyond her duties to help us in all situations. Mrs Laci helped us the best she could.
Cons: no face to face interaction
Grades Used: 8-12
Alpha Omega has been a terrific educational choice for my family. We had been homeschooling our children but decided to enroll them at AOA after we decided to have another child. Wed knew that the demands of time to raise an infant and now toddler would be too much to combine with a solid, traditional homeschool education.
We have had three children graduate and are now attending University and two more in high school. Alpha Omega has been very responsive to our requests during the college application process.
My children utilize online and phone teacher access hours which has enhanced their performance and confidence.
Cons: Confusing, No Support, Very Low Quality Videos and Lessons
Grades Used: 10
[ED - Tracey provided this update to her original review:
This is a follow up to my original review. The director contacted me after seeing that my son asked for help 31 times in 5 weeks through the online system. She refunded a lot more of my money and apologized for the lack of communication to help my son. I am happy that she took the time to research my complaints and gave me a fair refund. If you use AOA be sure to use the phone to call your teacher instead of the online system. That was the directors recommendation. We thought the online system was the first line of help. The school is very fast paced and there’s not a lot of time to slow down and learn if you need extra practice on something.]
We have not found AOA to be a good school. The lessons are very confusing and they do not line up with the quizzes and tests. This sets the student up for failure and discouragement. We have waited days for a teacher to grade an assignment so that my son could move on to the next lesson. Then, because we had to wait on the teacher, it has a red circle and shows that he is behind. When we asked teachers for help they sent us a link to Khan Academy. I thought I was paying all of this money to have teachers?! We quickly saw that we were not going to receive the support or instruction that was advertised so in week 5 we withdrew. They kept over two thousand dollars of our money for 5 weeks of school and I only got $292 back. They said they needed to keep my money to pay the teachers. The teachers who never helped us after weeks of reaching out. I cannot recommend AOA. I have escalated my complaints to the director and have sent all proof of our attempts to get help, hoping to get more of my money back. Not likely to make a difference but I'm going to try. Please be careful if you consider this school.
Grades Used: 9-12
Alpha Omega Academy was a great Academy for my two children. We did the online Ignitia curriculum and had many Math teachers available to help. Everyone was very helpful and my family was very Blessed for all Alpha Omega Academy made sure my children with a great education.
Cons: The Algebra Lifepac and the AOA Math Department can be a Problem in 9th Grade.
I want to begin by saying, our blessed child had the opportunity to tour the White House based on her excellent grades. There were other students of her same age, and students from a military academy, all enjoying the White House tour while accompanied by a guardian. So we too were blessed to join our daughter in this tour. My point is, our child sincerely strives hard to do very well in school. She also scored highest in math during her MAP Test in 9th grade. Having said all this, we share once again our first low blow with AOA Math Department and the Lifepac Algebra Course. It was a nightmare! It didn't matter how hard our daughter studied for Algebra. Each time the test seemed harder, as if it were modified or altered to make it more difficult. My father-in-law is a mathematician, and even he couldn't figure out the Lifepac Algebra Course. We were also very displeased with the math teacher, and found it strange that we couldn’t change teachers if we wanted to. Eventually, the former principal and assistant principal informed us they had only one algebra teacher through out the entire course of the year. A few months later, the former principal left AOA and a new principal came on board. Our child's math teacher remained in control of all tests and decision making of the entire course. We never experienced anything like it with any teacher and with any course. Our child learned most of (Algebra I) from professional mathematicians on YouTube, and proved herself by scoring very high in her MAP Test. But regardless of all she learned, it seemed useless for the AOA Algebra Department. When it came time for her tests, each time it was more complex and disconnected from what was taught in the book. And the book was not well explained either. We were also rushed through the entire course by the teacher while trying to learn so much material all at once. Our child’s educational coordinator extended the course up to the end of July. By this point, our child was very uneasy with the entire course. It became overwhelming for her as well as for us. She never despised math, and for the first time she desired OUT. My husband and I don't remember Algebra ever being ridiculously confusing even in college. Just when our child tirelessly achieved a score of over 90% in algebra, something went horribly wrong. The administrators of the school such as the new principal, assistant principal, including the math teacher, judged our daughter’s final test based on one math problem. It honestly felt as if our child was being exceptionally targeted! Then they set a punishment to decrease the overall grade drastically based on a school policy. I never heard of such policy, and didn’t even know it existed. We weren’t informed of the injustice until after the verdict was made on a Friday, leaving us to linger with this horrific punishment during the weekend. In the 8 years I home-schooled my child, I've NEVER encountered anything like this. It seemed evil and definitely unprofessional. Based on this experience, I don't recommend the AOA Algebra Lifepac taught by the Academy, nor the teacher assigned for the Course. We also took action to further protect the well being of our child, her future grades, and from ever experiencing another injustice like this again. The Educational Coordinator was a wonderful person, as well as all other teachers who taught professionally during the years our daughter was enrolled with the academy.
Cons: can't begin a class until current classes are complete, even if they don't build on one another
Grades Used: 9, 10, 11
After spending some time in alternative placements, my daughter needed help getting ready to return to her private school with her peers as a junior. AOA worked with us to get her set up for successfully earning 6 credits over the summer. As an educator myself, a former director of a nationally known learning center, and having taught online courses myself, I was impressed with AOA as an educational entity. In fact, I have recommended AOA to friends and colleagues, and I have commended AOA to my daughter's school which sent us their direction in the first place. They made the process of enrollment as well as the courses smooth and thorough. Both the admin and the instructors were so consistently responsive.
Cons: None
Grades Used: 9th Algebra 1
We are new to Alpha Omega Academy (AOA) and as a parent with a son entering into high school; you do not want to mess things up nor fail them because high school counts. I researched many options before choosing AOA (other online schools, part time homeschool/part time local Christian schools, and local college math classes). My son was willing to test out Algebra 1 over the summer. Our experience has been beyond amazing and we are returning for his 9th grade year. Prior to AOA we were at a private Christian school and was not very satisfied, they lacked a strong math department. Our goal was to finish Algebra 1 over the summer but it did take more time then excepted. However, AOA worked with us and gave him an extension of time to complete his course. We have had more support from AOA help line teachers and white board sessions then our local Christian school. The communication is OUTSTANDING, they are always following up and checking on how things are going! Flexibility is great…you are assigned a teacher but for us summer was busy and we were unable to attend his teacher’s white board sessions but anytime we sent an email it was responded to within a few hours. There were 7 high school math teachers so we could join any of their white board session that work for us that day. Also, we called the support line multiple times and got live teachers anytime he needed help with no wait! I highly recommend AOA!
Cons: The Algebra Math Department Is A Problem For Ninth Grade
Grades Used: Elementary - Junior High
For the first time we experienced a low blow with the academy. The algebra department for 9th grade has been a nightmare. The academy also informed us they have one algebra teacher through the entire course of the year. We thought it was strange that we couldn't change teachers if we wanted to. The math teacher was not trustworthy and certainly not helpful. The algebra books are also a problem to not explain the problems accurately. Our child learned most of the algebra from professional mathematicians on YouTube. In the meantime, we were rushed through the entire course by the teacher while trying to learn so much material and remember it all. Our child's educational coordinator extended the course up to the end of July to further increase time in learning the units and prepare for the tests. Just when our child was doing excellent, the math teacher and the new principal judged our daughter's final test based on one math problem. We were shocked when they unjustly set a punishment to decrease the overall grade drastically based on a school policy. I never heard of the policy, and didn't even know it existed until our child was targeted by her algebra teacher. We weren't informed of the injustice until after they made their verdict. It all seemed evil and almost unbearable. All the hard work invested into this horrific math curriculum was stripped away. So an investigation is already in place. We caution students to stay away from the Algebra Department.
Grades Used: 7th & 8th
AOA has been the perfect academic match for our son. It has allowed him to learn at his own pace, with structured guidance and teacher support when needed. He has learned to work independently and has a new-found confidence as a learner. We have loved the Chrisitan-based curriculum and found it appropriately challenging with each grade level. Our Education Coordinator and teachers have always been supportive and readily available whenever needed.
Cons: None
Grades Used: 10th
AOA curriculum is up to date and a fabulous way to learn! AOA prepared my son to take his TSI, allowing him to enroll at our local community college for their duel enrollment program. He passed with flying colors which we accredit to AOA. We would have enrolled for his last two years of high school but their outstanding curriculum prepared him for his dual enrollment journey!
Cons: None
Grades Used: 4th
I used this curriculum many years ago myself and I will be using it with my son soon also. It was much more useful to me than the boring book curriculums I had used before. Excellent curriculum!
Cons: Not one
Grades Used: 11th and 12th
My son Connor, enrolled with AOA for his 11th grade year and just completed his 12th grade year. We are so excited for him to receive his diploma. Wonderful option to get away from the conventional brick and mortar schooling. Alpha Omega has awesome teachers, counselors and staff to help with whatever you or your student might need. If you child needs flexibility with their school schedule AOA understands. We are very happy with this alternative option for receiving a diploma and highly recommend.
Cons: none
Grades Used: K-12
I started with AOA in 2003. Three kids and very little support. I initially used the lifepac system up until each child was ready for 9th grade. I then switched online, the teacher assistance and support from Sarah Ripplinger-Mason were priceless. My eldest Luke, and youngest Natasha( just graduated last Friday) continued on till 12th grade at their choosing, having been given the option to go out when their brother Zach chose to integrate into a private school here (Trinidad).after completing 7th grade with AOA. The entire experience is one that I will treasure forever, the Word included in their education is the solid Rock they all can build on, as well as the great well rounded academic program, The many naysayers back when I started all silenced, as it is clear that nothing was lacking in the homeschooling method of education with AOA. Luke works now as an ROV pilot in the oilfield, Zach is in air conditioning/ refrigeration, and Natasha is on her way now to her next step with university on the horizon. Every challenge now as I look back was worth it as I see the good fruit that has come from our choosing the homeschooling route. It is also the most humbling experience, as I know full well it was done by God's grace and the amazing support from the many wonderful teachers and people at Alpha Omega Academy. We feel like we really know the teachers and staff from our interactions never feeling like a number but a name. For this we are so grateful and wish to one day cross paths. Special shout out to Mr. Gesch (Spanish) who we hold a particular fondness for. Thank you all for this service is has been most valuable to my family.
Grades Used: 10th-12th
Loved working with AOA. Very helpful. Son graduated and has 12 hours of college with the ability to do dual credit classes.
We have used Alpha Omega Academy for the past 3 years of our homeschooling for my children who are in 7th-9th grade. I wish I had started using this curriculum sooner!! The academy is top notch as well as the teachers and our counselor. I am beyond grateful for how easy they are making Jr. High/High School for us! Thank you Alpha Omega Academy!!
Cons: price
Grades Used: 9 - 12
My daughter will be graduating from AOA at the ceremony on June 8th, 2018. We used the LifePack curriculum with AOA from 9th grade to 12th grade. I am beyond thrilled with the decision that we made when we decided to go with them at that time. I wanted a top education for my daughter with a guidance counselor that could help with all things for her college path. We had an amazing counselor! She always went above and beyond! Because of that and the top education you receive at AOA, my daughter got early acceptance last December to her first choice college, a top tier 4 year university and all that was needed was her GPA, her SAT scores and to say she attended AOA. I can not say enough about this school! I believe that every homeschool parent should know about this option for their children!
Cons: no scheduled fall break or spring break
Grades Used: 9th and 10th
We began homeschooling with Alpha Omega Academy two years ago when my daughter started high school. I was very nervous to make this change but with my daughter's ballet training it was our best option. I have been so happy with this amazing school,the staff, and teachers! Our counselor is like a personal friend and each teacher has been amazing. I always know what is going on with each class and how my daughter is doing each week. The academic level is better than the public school my daughter had been attending and I also feel it is better than the private school she attended for 6 years. This school isn't easy but it is also reasonable and if your child keeps up with their assignments you can experience a great deal of freedom. I have appreciated each and every teacher/counselor and any question I have submitted has been met with a swift response and sincere interest in my daughter and how she learns. I believe this is one of the very best programs available. I HIGHLY recommend Alpha Omega Academy for your children. It is just amazing! We could not be happier and it has exceeded my expectations in every way.
Grades Used: 9th through 12th
From the initial call to gain information about the academy, to the submission of her final test, my daughter has gained a valuable education through Alpha Omega Academy. Her teachers and education coordinator were always most attentive and ready to help or answer any questions or concerns that we had.
The curriculum was top notch and we feel she is prepared to enter her college years. Thank you so much Alpha Omega!
Cons: Remote learning, but we knew that going into it. Alpha & Omega do a great job being user friendly and available to students.
Grades Used: 8th & 9th so far
We absolutely LOVE Alpha & Omega!!
My daughter has learned soo much since enrolling and all her hard work is paying off. My daughter is thriving and doing very well. It has been very challenging for her because the standards and expectations are high, but she receives tons of support from the teachers and from her amazing advisor Laci who follows up with her and helps her along the way.
In looking back, we definitely made a good decision to transition her out of private Christian school and In to Alpha & Omega. At first, I thought most of the material would be review tge 1st year but it was all new and difficult, which made me wonder what the $8k a year had been going towards at the other private school, if her learning was not up to par. Like i said, we're soo glad we made the switch to Alpha & Omega! We highly recommend it to students who want/need to learn responsibility, time-management and personal accountability and take a vested interest and active part in their education. You certainly get out of it what you put into it and we're very pleased.
Cons: None
Grades Used: Junior and Senior Year
Alpha Omega has been such a blessing to our family! During my son's junior year of high school, he had reached his limit in the public school system. After years of trying to work with the administration and teachers to create an effective plan to fit his needs to no avail, we knew a change was needed as he refused to walk through the doors of his school ever again. We had been desperately praying for God to find a place for our son where he'd be welcomed and his strengths as an individual would be acknowledged and celebrated. It was extremely important that his confidence be built up once again and that all teacher interactions and support systems be positive.
My first phone call when reaching out to Alpha Omega was with Keith Holland. He was amazing and extremely helpful. I knew God led us to Alpha Omega by the end of that first phone call. He was so interested in my son and what Alpha Omega could do for him. He had his best interest at heart! I looked forward to chatting with Keith because he was knowledgeable about the program, a caring Christian, and the one who was assisting us to getting an education that worked with my son's learning style.
We enrolled in Alpha Omega and that is when my son's transformation began. He was able to learn at his own pace in an environment that was both positive and safe. He loved the Ignitia program and found his studies fun, interesting, and challenging. His advisor, Kristy May would and continues to reach out to both my son and myself on a constant basis to check in and chat with us both about how we feel things were going, whether or not we need any help, and to talk about things that are happening in our lives. In short, to connect with us. I love how she knows my son's hobbies, his learning style, his challenges, and what is going on in his life. That is caring and connecting with our kids. She truly cares for my son and our family. She praises my son for his successes. This is what sets Alpha Omega apart from other educational programs! They care and build relationships! Kristy has been with us when life happens and gets rough. She goes out of her way to help the student and family succeed together. I am thankful that she is in our lives.
The teachers have been phenomenal as well! They email and call to check in with both my son and myself. They give feedback and are so helpful when my son has had questions regarding his schoolwork. One of the things that has been important with my son is that they are patient! They help guide. I just can't sing enough of Alpha Omega's praises. They have changed my son's life as well as my family life. He is confident, happy, and proud of his accomplishments in his school work. It challenges him and that makes him even prouder when he succeeds. He's doing great and his grades reflect it!
I highly recommend Alpha Omega Academy. They are top notch and heaven sent! I have a happy and confident son who is receiving the best education I could possibly give him and it's literally a blessing from GOD!
My son took a personal finance class with Alpha Omega. They were very easy to work with. I can highly recommend Alpha Omega.
Cons: None
Grades Used: 5
I love Alpha Omega Academy. They are always there when you need them even though we are really far. They love to help my daughter. The teachers are caring loving and most of all they feel like family. I will recommend this school program with no problem. We already sign up for our second year and we are definitely staying with them.