New Law Expands Virtual Education in Texas
Texas has taken a significant step forward in expanding virtual education opportunities for its students. A new law, signed by Governor Greg Abbott, aims to strengthen the state’s framework for K-12 virtual learning. The law, introduced as Senate Bill 569, was authored by State Senator Paul Bettencourt, a Republican representing parts of Houston.
What the Law Entails
The new law carves out a section in Texas’ Education Code for online and hybrid instruction, replacing outdated virtual learning laws with a clear structure. This means that parents and students will be better informed about their school district’s virtual and hybrid courses. Additionally, full-time students’ requests to learn virtually, either full-time or part-time, cannot be denied unless costs are considered "too high" for schools, or the course isn’t aligned with a student’s graduation plan.
Protections for Families
The law adds several protections for families opting for online education. For instance, teachers and school staff are not allowed to "actively discourage a student" by "threat or intimidation" for enrolling in virtual or hybrid learning. Teachers also won’t be mandated to teach online courses without training or their consent. This ensures that students who choose virtual learning are not unfairly treated or discriminated against.
Funding and Attendance
The law also addresses attendance records and funding. Districts and schools will receive the same amount of funding for every student, whether they are physically in classrooms or taking online courses. This means that virtual learning students will have equal access to resources and opportunities as their traditional classroom counterparts.
Benefits for Students
The new law is expected to benefit thousands of students across Texas, particularly those who face unique challenges that make traditional schooling difficult. Kyla Pickrell, the executive director of Texas Virtual Academy at Hallsville, expressed her gratitude for the legislation, saying that it will provide students with safety, stability, and the chance to succeed. State Representative Keith Bell (R-Forney) also praised the law, saying that it offers a modern structure that empowers school districts to meet the needs of students.
Future of Virtual Education
The state has laid out its framework to review virtual campuses, with the performances of students at online schools being annually evaluated by the state. Senator Bettencourt hopes that the number of students learning online will double by the 2028-29 school year. He believes that the law will help expand education access for Texas students and change kids’ lives for the better.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the new law is a significant step forward for virtual education in Texas. It provides a clear structure for online and hybrid instruction, protects families who opt for virtual learning, and ensures equal funding and resources for all students. With its implementation, Texas is poised to become a leader in virtual education, providing students with more choices and opportunities to succeed. As Senator Bettencourt said, "Whether it’s helping foster youth find success or giving students the flexibility to earn college credit while pursuing career training, SB 569 is proof that virtual learning, when done right, changes kids’ lives!"
