Originally posted in The Plaid Horse, December issue on page 122.

Equestrian athletes are a growing population of the Laurel Springs School’s vibrant community. Since 1991, the online learning program has prioritized rich academics with services tailored to each individual, ensuring that children and teens aged K-12 receive an education that works with, not against, their schedule, learning style, and passions.

Gabriella Anzelc, a recent graduate of Laurel Springs who just finished in the top 30 of the 2025 Dover Saddlery/USEF Hunter Seat Medal Finals, says, “I started in a traditional school and realized I wanted to take riding further; then as I took it further, I thought traditional school isn’t really working for me.” Many top junior riders who pursue high-level sport or follow an ambitious competition calendar struggle to balance in-person school with their schedules, often feeling like they have to always bring their schoolwork on the go, miss important class days, and not spend enough time at the barn.

Laurel Springs provides various programs and levels of online learning so families choose the best fit for their child. The elementary, middle, and high schools offer a self-paced, encompassing curriculum, while the Academy is a hybrid-style online private school with a highly supportive workshop learning environment. Laurel Springs also offers dual enrollment for ambitious students seeking to take accelerated courses in partnership with accredited universities. Every platform at Laurel Springs enables students to gain real-life skills, knowledge, and the confidence to pursue higher education and beyond.

Learning Experience Backed By History

Many equestrians like Anzelc have felt the desire to join online learning programs whether at the encouragement of their trainers, recommended by their barnmates, or from a similar frustration with trying to manage school and a serious commitment to riding. Still, some question if an online education can stay on par with traditional learning. Laurel Springs is not only a top-ranked platform, it’s also the oldest existing K-12 online school. “My parents vetted several online schools thoroughly; they wouldn’t let me enroll just anywhere,” says Anzelc. “We decided to go with Laurel Springs because they’ve been around for so long, they have NCAA-approved courses, and offered the right flexibility.” 

With over 200 classes offered in the course catalog, including Advanced Placement (AP) and honors levels, the data tracks Laurel Springs maintains a high academic standard on the national scale. In 2025, 77% of the graduating class was college-bound, and of them, 86% got into one of their top three choices for college. Additionally, Laurel Springs’ accreditation means students have better chances at aiming for out of state colleges and universities and are eligible for scholarships.

Evie Becky, a sophomore in her second year working with Laurel Springs is able to retain a rigorous standard as a straight A student taking honors classes while horse showing across the country. “I just came back from indoors, and to me, there’s no other way to do it. Going to a traditional school and competing frequently on the A circuit is nearly impossible,” she says. Over 30 years of experience, a proven track record of being competitive with other schools, and support from teachers and staff at every stage give Anzelc, Becky, and their families peace of mind in the education department so they can continue chasing their equestrian dreams.

Bringing Out the Best In and Out of the Saddle

For Anzelc, doing school online meant more time to be spent at the barn, a huge advantage for someone with professional aspirations. “I wanted to learn how to actually train a horse and not just have my trainer hop on and do it for me,” she says. “I get all my school done on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday so I have the rest of the week free to ride and show because I do my own horses in the mornings and at the start of the week.” 

Becky, who utilizes Laurel Springs partner Hayutin, a private tutoring service which seamlessly merges with the online learning program, does something similar with her schedule when she’s competing. “I do work from 8:30 to 4:00 on Monday and Tuesday. Wednesday, I usually plan a 2-hour block, but then as needed, I’ll add on more to get ahead or if I was just at a show and need to catch up,” she says. 

Not only did the flexibility of scheduling align well with Laurel Springs students, so do the subjects they take. “I really loved English classes, and I find myself continuing to write even after school,” says Anzelc. “I learned a lot about how to be well spoken, write emails, get a job interview, and other practical skills.” Becky adds, “I’m really enjoying my honors chemistry, and honors Algebra II. Last year, as electives I took digital photography and studio arts.” 

Post graduation, Anzelc is taking a gap year before applying to colleges to end her junior riding career with a few more fabled stops on the circuit. “My goals for next year include International Derby Finals, North American Young Rider Championships, and maybe the USET Talent Search,” she says. “I definitely want to become a pro in a few years.”

Spending as much time at the barn as possible is crucial to make those goals a reality, but Anzelc also makes space for other important things in her life. “I volunteered for my church a lot through middle school and then noticed a lot of high schoolers weren’t able to because they had practice or other activities after school. The freedom to create my own schedule allows me to continue to volunteer at my church,” she says, adding, “And I feel so present in my community and my family.” 

Becky, who competes in the hunters and equitation with John Bragg’s Bridgeport Farms has rapidly progressed since having the flexibility to ride and compete more. Her horses typically reside either at Bridgeport Farm or whatever horse show they are actively attending, too far from Becky’s home to constantly commute to, so the ability to relocate to wherever they are means more time where it matters most. 

“This year I’m looking forward to moving up to 3’3”,” says Becky, “And I would love to go to Devon and Junior Hunter Finals.” Online courses have also allowed her to take full advantage of time at home and adventuring with her family. Her mother, Lainie Becky says, “We travel together frequently, and it’s been a real gift to be able to spend this time with her.” 

When she graduates from Laurel Springs with her eyes set on starting college, Becky will be given the same opportunity as Anzelc had to participate in an in-person end of year celebration— where the online campus community joins together for a prom and graduation, giving students and their families one final inclusive experience. As they look around at their fellow alumni, Anzelc and Becky will be greeted by other faces of equestrian sport, united by Laurel Springs in a lasting, lifelong connection. 

About Laurel Springs School

Laurel Springs is a fully accredited, online private school for K-12 students. With a premier college-prep curriculum including AP® and Honors courses, in-person and virtual events, and a global community spanning over 100 countries, we’ve ranked as one of the top online private schools in the nation. Virtual Open Houses are offered periodically throughout the year, and families can register to learn more and get their questions answered by our team in addition to getting their $300 enrollment registration fee waived. To learn more about what current families have to say, view Laurel Springs School’s Niche page.

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