Students need a combination of skills, habits, and attitudes to help them thrive at Foothills. Whether it’s being able to work independently, staying focused, or knowing when to ask for help, these key characteristics will set you up for success. Below are the traits that will support your success and why they matter on your journey to earning a Georgia high school diploma.

Self-Motivated
Being self-motivated is essential at Foothills because you have flexibility in setting your schedule. While there are teachers and mentors to guide you, success relies on your ability to stay focused and take responsibility for your progress.

Reading at an Eighth-Grade Level
Strong reading skills are critical, as much of the learning is self-directed and involves reading course materials. Being able to understand what you read will allow you to move through courses more efficiently and retain the knowledge you need to succeed.

Able to Work Independently
Independence is a major advantage in Foothills’ flexible environment. While teachers and tutors are available to help, the ability to work on your own will help you complete courses faster and make steady progress toward graduation.

Knowing When to Ask for Help
Recognizing when you need assistance is key to your success. Foothills offers a wide range of support from teachers, mentors, and counselors, so knowing when to ask for help ensures you don’t fall behind or miss important learning opportunities.

Able to Commit 10–15 Hours per Week
Consistent effort is crucial to success at Foothills. By dedicating 10 to 15 hours per week, you will maintain momentum, retain what you've learned, and complete your courses within the expected timeframe.

Reliable Transportation
Since Foothills does not provide transportation, having a dependable way to get to and from school is important for making sure you can attend regularly and meet the time commitment needed to complete your coursework.

Able to Set Long- and Short-Term Goals
Setting both long- and short-term goals is a key component of academic success. At Foothills, goal-setting helps you stay on track, monitor your progress, and focus on both immediate tasks and the bigger picture of graduation. Our mentors will help students set and review these goals.

Able to Take and Study Notes
Effective note-taking is essential for retaining and understanding course material. Since the curriculum is content-rich, your notes will be a valuable resource when studying and preparing for quizzes and tests.

Taking Responsibility for Graduation Progress
Taking ownership of your academic journey is important at Foothills. While counselors provide guidance, it's up to you to manage your course load and ensure you are meeting the requirements needed to graduate.

Able to Focus in a Quiet, Independent Work Environment
Focus is crucial for success in Foothills’ quiet, self-directed classrooms. Though the environment is quiet, you need to be able to concentrate and stay on task amidst others working independently.

Willing to Track Progress in a Course
Monitoring your progress is key to completing courses on time. Foothills provides course outlines and tools to track what you've finished, and taking responsibility for your own progress will help you stay on top of deadlines.

Engaging with Mentors, Counselors, and Staff
Regular contact with mentors, counselors, and other staff members is an important part of your support system. By engaging with them, you’ll receive valuable guidance, encouragement, and help in overcoming obstacles to success.

Comfortable with Scoring 80% or Higher to Pass
Mastering the course material is important at Foothills, and a score of 80% or higher is required to move forward. This ensures you have a solid understanding of each subject before advancing, which prepares you for future challenges.

Willing to Follow All Rules and Regulations
Adhering to the rules and regulations is important for maintaining a positive learning environment. At Foothills, following the guidelines not only keeps you on track but also helps ensure your success and the success of those around you.

Basic Computer Skills
Basic computer skills are essential at Foothills, as most of the coursework is delivered online. Being proficient with common tasks like emailing, data entry, and navigating course platforms will help you move through the curriculum more smoothly.