ERIC Number: ED660597
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2024-Sep
Pages: 9
Abstractor: ERIC
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Responding to Crisis: Virtual Schooling in Oregon during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Policy Brief
Julie A. Marsh; James Bridgeforth; Laura Mulfinger; Desiree O’Neal; Tong Tong
National Center for Research on Education Access and Choice
Since the peak of the pandemic in 2020, enrollment in virtual schools has steadily increased, with virtual schools now accounting for approximately 1.4% of the nation's public school students. While the effects of the pandemic on student achievement and mental health have been extensively studied, research has yet to thoroughly examine the impact of the pandemic on state policies and local organizational practices related to virtual schooling. Although some believed the onset of the pandemic would fundamentally reshape virtual schooling options in K-12 education, others were more skeptical, believing expanded virtual learning options were merely a temporary fix. This study examines whether the pandemic shaped virtual schooling at both the local and state levels, and if the changes made are likely to last and/or improve equity. The authors interviewed state and local education leaders and advocates, analyzed policy documents, websites, and media, observed legislative proceedings, and examined organizational practices in a sample of schools between 2019 and 2022 in Oregon. This state had an extensive history of virtual schooling before the pandemic, and enrollment continues to grow. The findings offer important lessons for policymakers and leaders to consider as the availability of virtual schools remains widespread across the country.
Descriptors: COVID-19, Pandemics, Virtual Schools, Distance Education, Elementary Secondary Education, Educational Policy, Educational Change, State Policy, School Demography, Public Policy, Educational Practices, Charter Schools, Public Schools, Equal Education
National Center for Research on Education Access and Choice. 1555 Poydras Street Suite 700, New Orleans, LA 70112. Tel: 870-540-6576; e-mail: info@reachcentered.org; Web site: https://reachcentered.org/
Publication Type: Reports - Research
Education Level: Elementary Secondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: Institute of Education Sciences (ED)
Authoring Institution: National Center for Research on Education Access and Choice (REACH)
Identifiers - Location: Oregon
IES Funded: Yes
Grant or Contract Numbers: R305C180025