Companion Bill: SB 1298 by Senator Hegar Summary HB 1926 (Open States or Texas Legislature) enacts an online course access program for Texas, heavily utilizing the state virtual school network, which will act as a marketplace for high-quality online courses that have gone through an approval process. It expands student eligibility from only high school…
In Plain English: SC HB 3752
“Expanded Virtual Learning Act” Summary HB 3752 (South Carolina Legislature or Open States) expands virtual learning in South Carolina. This legislation would remove limits on the number of online credits a student might be awarded under the program. Legislative Analysis In May 2006, the South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) launched the South Carolina Virtual…
26 Aug 2013
The Challenges of Expanding E-Rate
August 23, 2013 The path to reforming and modernizing the E-Rate program should not include unnecessary hikes in fees that are paid for by low- and middle-income Americans who are already overtaxed and struggling in this sluggish economy. The White House stirred up this controversy last week by endorsing additional fees to cell phone bills…
23 Aug 2013
In Plain English: OH HB 59
Summary HB 59 (Open States or Ohio Legislature) is a two-year state budget that gives schools $15 billion, a four-percent increase over current appropriations. The bill establishes a Straight A Innovation Fund, setting aside $250 million for a competitive grant process encouraging a wide range of educational initiatives, including digital learning. The bill awards $675,000…
23 Aug 2013
In Plain English: NH SB 48
Summary SB 48 (Open States or New Hampshire Legislature) represents a shift in thinking on the existing chapter on school performance and accountability. It moves away from traditional models and towards a system which would prepare students for college and career through the use of clear learning outcomes and competency-based learning. It would also change…
22 Aug 2013
In Plain English: NV SB 58
Summary Nevada SB 58/Chapter 321 (Nevada State Legislature or Open States) revises provisions governing the manner in which distance education is provided. This legislation allows eligible students to directly enroll in any distance learning programs without being required to obtain permission from their home district. It also allows for unlicensed employees to supervise distance education…
21 Aug 2013
The Tools of True Reform
Governor Jeb Bush, the Founder and Chairman of the Board of the Foundation for Excellence in Education, has an important editorial up at National Review arguing that we need serious reform and higher standards if we are to raise student achievement in America. While this article primarily pushes back against myths being perpetuated by opponents of higher…
20 Aug 2013
In Plain English: MI HB 4228
Summary HB 4228 (Open States or Michigan Legislature) appropriates funds for a wide range of education reforms and expansions in digital learning, including course access, expanding ease of access for 957,825 students wishing to enroll in online learning (allowing students to enroll in up to two online courses). It also increases for the Michigan Virtual…
20 Aug 2013