Lawmakers urged to weigh in on online instruction days

An Indiana Board of Education member renewed his call Wednesday for lawmakers to define what constitutes an instructional day as schools move to replace snow days with online instruction, but he might not get his wish.

Brad Oliver said state law requires students to receive 180 days of instruction but doesn't define what an instructional day looks like. Without legislative input, he said, "Everybody will have their take on how much eLearning equals an instructional day."

The state Department of Education has granted more than four dozen public school districts and private schools permission to hold online learning days in cases of inclement weather this school year. Supporters say the practice will ensure students don't miss critical instructional time ahead of the high-stakes spring ISTEP+ test and will help districts avoid extending the school year to make up missed days.

Oliver said he doesn't oppose virtual learning but is concerned that what started as a pilot program has been expanded without lawmakers' input.

"I think there's a right way to do it and I think there's a wrong day to do it," he said.

Candice Dodson, director of eLearning for the Department of Education, told state board members Wednesday that schools have spent a lot of time developing eLearning options.

"We believe the 180 days are being honored. They just look different," she said.

Some board members expressed concern about whether virtual learning provides the same level of instruction, but panelist David Freitas said ensuring quality should be a local role.

"We've got to provide some faith and confidence in local districts," he said. "Why should we penalize districts that are doing a great job with this?"

Schools across the country have been increasingly moving toward virtual instruction in place of snow days as more districts put technology in students' hands. The eLearning days have gained momentum in Indiana since last winter, when some districts missed up to 15 days.

The Department of Education requires Indiana schools that want to use the virtual option to have technology in every student's hand and ensure that teachers are available to answer questions. Districts also must provide accommodations for students who would normally have assistance in the classroom and provide appropriate learning activities for those with disabilities who don't use online learning platforms.

The DOE doesn't limit the number of virtual learning days a public school can use.

Senate education committee Chairman Dennis Kruse, R-Auburn, said he hoped the Legislature wouldn't need to get involved in the issue.

"I wish they would be able to settle it themselves," Kruse said of the Board of Education and Superintendent of Public Instruction Glenda Ritz. "I think we have decent laws on it now."