During (and after) the lockdowns of the COVID-19 pandemic, educational communities have employed distance education to reach their students. However, not all districts are aware of the legal requirements of using instructional materials in a virtual setting. In recognition of the growth of virtual learning environments, Congress passed the Technology, Education and Copyright Harmonization (TEACH) Act in 2002 with the goal of redefining the circumstances and rules under which nonprofit and educational institutions might digitally use copyright protected materials. For districts exploring or expanding opportunities in distance education, understanding the laws that pertain to the use of digital, copyrighted materials is of critical importance. This article explores and explains these requirements for policymakers, site and district leadership, and classroom instructors.