On April 1, the Ohio Department of Education (ODE) released additional information regarding Remote Learning Pathway Considerations 2021-2022. For the 2020-21 school year, the Ohio legislature gave districts additional flexibility to provide remote instruction through the submission of their Remote Learning Plans. However, it is important to note that ODE has not received any notice that the legislature will extend the new flexibilities or create other legislative authority for remote learning during the 2021-22 and ensuing school years.
State law currently authorizes four options for districts and schools interested in providing remote learning approaches for students and families. Those options are:
- Alternative Schools
- Blended Learning
- Credit Flexibility
- Innovative Education Pilot Program
ODE’s new resource includes information about each option and includes a comparison guide that may be used by districts as they plan for the upcoming year. Additionally, ODE encourages districts to consult with their legal counsel to ensure compliance with the Ohio Revised Code and the Ohio Administrative Code upon implementation.