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Resolve, To Analyze the Value of Distance Learning in a Rural Environment
Sec. 1 Department of Education to analyze potential of distance learning. Resolved: That the Department of Education shall analyze the potential of distance learning via the Internet to support expanded curriculum opportunities statewide and, in particular, for rural communities with small schools. As part of the analysis, the Department of Education shall establish 2 pilot programs to run in the spring semester of 2012 and be paid for by existing department resources, participating school administrative units or private contractors interested in establishing an online educational program or school in the State. The analysis of distance learning via the Internet must address:
1. The effectiveness and cost of the distance learning;
2. The impact of the distance learning on the structure of educational districts and on the teaching workforce; and
3. The feasibility of establishing an online high school; and be it further
Sec. 2 Department of Education to develop legislation to make distance learning a top priority in the State. Resolved: That the Department of Education, in conducting the analysis required in section 1, shall coordinate with school administrators, teachers, parents and other interested parties to develop proposed legislation that defines the requirements and policies necessary to make distance learning via the Internet a top priority in the State; and be it further
Sec. 3 Department of Education to develop legislation to allow for open enrollment in distance learning via the Internet. Resolved: That the Department of Education shall develop legislation to allow the enrollment of a student from one school administrative unit in an educational course offered via the Internet by another school administrative unit upon permission from both school administrative units; and be it further
Sec. 4 Report. Resolved: That, no later than January 15, 2013, the Department of Education shall submit its findings under section 1 along with any suggested implementing legislation developed under this resolve to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over education matters. The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over education matters may submit a bill regarding the analysis required under this resolve to the First Regular Session of the 126th Legislature.
 
SUMMARY
This resolve directs the Department of Education to conduct an analysis of distance learning via the Internet statewide and for rural communities by establishing 2 pilot programs in the spring semester of 2012 and analyzing distance learning’s cost, effectiveness and impact on the structure of educational districts and the teaching workforce and the feasibility of establishing an online high school. This resolve also requires the Department of Education to develop legislation to allow enrollment of a student from one school administrative unit in an educational course offered via the Internet by another school administrative unit and to make distance learning via the Internet a top priority in the State.