Virtual School Policies: What Is the Issue, and Why Does It Matter? Policy Snapshot

Virtual learning is a rapidly growing space in education policy, driven by state leaders seeking to maximize potential for instructional innovation, prepare students for life in the digital age and meet students' unique needs. Virtual learning takes a variety of forms, including full-time virtual schools, supplemental course offerings and blended learning programs. In the 2017-2019 legislative sessions, virtual school legislation addressed the following areas presented in this report: (1) attendance and engagement; (2) authorizing and governance; and (3) funding for virtual schools.