School districts across Texas are ready to open their own full-time virtual schools after the passage of Texas Senate Bill 569 back in August. SB 569 legally permits an easier transition to different modes of virtual education for schools looking to extend their accessibility online.
SB 569 allows Texas school systems to offer virtual and hybrid instruction through models such as individual courses, programs, and full-time virtual and hybrid campuses. The demand for more virtual education options in Texas has continuously been growing, with the enrollment of virtual school students rising by 1,200% between 2014 and 2024. But for many districts, fully managing a virtual school can be uncharted territory.
Video: How does the new virtual schools option work?
What is SB 569?
Senate Bill 569 allows Texas school systems to offer virtual and hybrid instruction through models such as individual courses, programs, and full-time virtual and hybrid campuses. The bill streamlines previous virtual education policies into a single set of rules, allowing schools to create their own virtual extensions while maintaining enrollment and funding.
Video: Why is SB569 Important?
What has been the impact of virtual schools in Texas?
The impact of virtual schools has been seen all across the state as they’re already serving tens of thousands of students. With SB 569 now in action, this impact is only projected to grow as schools begin to adopt their own virtual methods. While many may view the implementation of virtual schools as a pandemic remnant, virtual education remains beneficial for students in rural areas, those seeking credit recovery, or those who are medically fragile and unable to attend an in-person school.
Today, the virtual schools that will make the most difference for the students of Texas are those that are well-managed. As more districts explore opening their own virtual schools, the question becomes not if, but how. Fortunately, Proximity Learning is a team of knowledgeable experts who specialize in the management of successful virtual schools.
Video: Intro to Virtual Schools
Should I build a virtual school?
We understand that as educators, your students are at the forefront of all your decisions. Creating a virtual school to ensure your students still have access to the education they deserve requires careful planning and a detailed understanding of what a virtual education actually entails. Proximity Learning’s very own Kip Pygman, Vice President of Client Success and Curriculum, outlined the 9 essential pillars districts must consider to build their own virtual school.
1. Leadership and Policy
A quality virtual school requires strong leadership and governance that will ensure the program is setting and meeting its goals.
2. Organizational Staff
Building a virtual school needs a qualified team that is certified to run, teach, and manage an online environment.
3. Equity and Accessibility
At Proximity Learning, educational equity is our priority, which is why a virtual school should be made to support students’ access to the program.
4. Technology and Systems
A huge part of the success of a virtual school lies in the technology and systems that supplement the students’ education.
5. Curriculum Content
Curriculum for virtual schools needs to be carefully designed to not only fit online instruction, but also institutionally developed courses and other licensed content.
6. Family and Learner Supports
A virtual school should also be a community to your students and their families, as it provides the support services needed to enhance their experience.
7. Evaluation and Assessment
When it comes to education, there is always room for improvement. Your virtual school should have internal and external assessments in place to ensure that your strategies and policies are still effective.
8. Continuous Improvement
Based on results from previous evaluations, virtual schools should implement their findings to continue administering a quality school.
9. Entrepreneurial Initiatives
A virtual school needs to be dedicated to innovation, ambition, and risk to continue achieving growth and stability.
Virtual education is an intricate matter, but it is not impossible. With the right people by your side, your virtual school can be the achievement you only imagined. For more information, read more here.
How Proximity Learning can help you build your virtual school
For more than 15 years, Proximity Learning has been doing what districts are just now stepping into. We know a thing or two about virtual education, and we want to ensure your district is equipped with the necessary help and knowledge to build its own virtual school. Proximity Learning can help your district build its virtual school by providing:
- Virtual school management: Proximity Learning will fully manage your district’s virtual school, down to the teacher staffing and program design
- Consultative partnership: Proximity Learning will use its expertise to act as a consultant during every step as you build your virtual school
Do it right, do it with Proximity Learning
SB 569 is opening the door to opportunities for schools all across Texas, but your school doesn’t have to walk through it alone. If your district’s focus is quality over quantity, then it might have a lot more in common with Proximity Learning. As a proven service, we are here to accompany school districts on this new path so students do not miss out on superior instruction.
With Proximity Learning by your side, you don’t have to choose between stability and advancement. Our certified teachers and live virtual teaching model are tried and true alternatives that keep schools alive and students learning. Synchronous virtual learning keeps classrooms from falling into the trap of poor online instruction. Maintain your excellent education and learn about how you can build your virtual school with Proximity Learning today.
