INDIANAPOLIS (AP) _ Dozens of Indiana school districts are replacing snow days with virtual learning, but concerns from state education officials could put the practice on ice.
The Department of Education has granted 37 public school districts and 13 private schools permission to offer online instruction in cases of inclement weather this school year. Supporters say the practice will ensure students don't miss critical instructional time ahead of the spring ISTEP+ test and will help districts avoid extending the school year to make up missed days.
State Board of Education member Brad Oliver says he thinks the virtual option is worth exploring. But he wants lawmakers to define what constitutes an instructional day in a virtual environment so students still receive the 180 days of instruction required by state law.
