President’s Letter

Dear OVPSA families,

2026 has already been a busy and exciting year for the OVPSA. In this month’s newsletter, we’re highlighting a student who is thriving in his virtual public school, sharing a recap of the OVPSA board’s meetings with legislators in Salem, and featuring photos from our National School Choice Week event at OMSI.

Student Spotlight

“My name is Lincoln Rosewood and I’m a senior at Destinations Career Academy of Oregon. In March, I’m heading to Chicago to receive the Rising Stars award from the National Art Honor Society! The award recognizes 50 outstanding student artists from all across the United States. I’m excited to visit a new state for this, and to make another step on the path towards an Arts & Communications career. After high school, I’m hoping to go to a community college in Oregon to learn about art and art education so I can share my passion with the world.”

Lincoln Rosewood – ORDCA Student

OVPSA at the Capitol

The OVPSA board traveled to Salem in February to meet with legislators and share the impact of virtual education across Oregon. While no legislation affecting virtual schools was introduced this year, board members discussed their firsthand experiences and encouraged lawmakers to revisit policies such as the 3% enrollment cap and the Student Investment Account grant program.

These policies currently limit student access to virtual schools and prevent virtual schools from applying for Student Investment Account funding. Although the 2026 legislative session adjourned on March 6, the OVPSA will continue working with legislators on these issues in preparation for the 2027 session.

During the legislative day, Isaac Powell joined his mother, OVPSA President Tricia Powell, at the Capitol. Isaac was recognized on the Senate floor by his state senator, David Brock Smith. Congratulations, Isaac!

National School Choice Week Celebration

Thank you to all the families who joined us to celebrate virtual public schools during our National School Choice Week event at OMSI in January.

Thank you for all you do to support virtual school families across Oregon.

Sincerely,

Tricia F. Powell

President

The Oregon Virtual Public Schools Alliance is coalition of parent volunteers whose primary objective is protecting access to a quality, virtual public education in our state. We seek to protect this right by educating Oregon policymakers about the benefits of virtual public charter schools and the positive contributions they make to our children's education.