January 24, 2008

 

Comments from Senator Jon Erpenbach on Virtual School Compromise

 

“I am pleased to learn that Senators John Lehman and Luther Olsen have formulated compromise legislation that will allow virtual schools to continue.”

“The compromise contains the legalizing language to address the circuit court decision which created the possibility that virtual schools would have to close. It also leaves funding at current levels, does not contain the requirement that 15% of the students must be from the host “bricks and mortar” school district, and addresses the instructional contact issue in a workable manner. In addition, the bill would require virtual charter schools to provide a certified, licensed teacher in content areas for each course, and that a teacher must respond within 24 hours to a student or parent inquiry during the school week. The compromise will also include language to allow DPI to operate web academies, helping to make occasional virtual classes available to every student in the state.”

“This language will make it possible for Virtual Schools to serve the students who are finding success in their learning environment, while establishing minimum accountability standards for the use of public funds. It is my sincere hope that this compromise will move quickly without opposition through the Assembly and be signed by the Governor.”