FAQ

What is a quality, virtual public education?

A virtual public education ensures quality through a broad-based curriculum that is appropriate for the child's grade level. A state-licensed teacher oversees instruction, testing, and government accountability standards - just as in a traditional brick-and-mortar public school. Teachers communicate regularly with students and their parents via email and phone, and meet with the parent and child in person to chart progress.

What quality control measures are there to ensure student achievement?

The child will take state tests just like other children in traditional schools to make sure they are learning on pace with their peers. The activities and student performance are monitored closely by the North Bend School District (ORVA), the Scio School District (Connections), and the State Board of Education. In addition, the Oregon Department of Education will be working closely with Oregon's virtual academies to gather data on the quality of the education they are offering.

Who pays for virtual public education?

The curriculum, teacher instruction, and some of the other costs associated with virtual public education are covered with public funds.

How many statewide virtual public schools operate in Oregon?

There are two that currently operate statewide in Oregon: Connections Academy and Oregon Virtual Academy (ORVA).

How many students are enrolled in these schools?

The two schools have a combined enrollment of approximately 2200 students for the 2008-2009 school year. The State Board of Education placed a 600-student cap on ORVA. No such cap exists on Connections Academy.

What are the threats to virtual education?

Oregon law provides that if a public charter school offers any online courses (as a virtual academy does) as part of the curriculum of the school, then 50 percent or more of the students who attend the public charter school must reside in the school district in which the public charter school is located. The State Board of Education, however, can grant waivers of this requirement.

Both Connections Academy and ORVA are operating without the application of the 50% rule. That will expire after the 2009-2010 school year. This has allowed both schools to accept enrollment of students from around the state who are seeking a quality on-line education. If the State Board decides to apply the 50% rule, it will effectively eliminate on-line education as a viable option statewide.