You might get the impression from news coverage that K12 online classes have been a great failure and are continuing only to provide a remedy until COVID can be contained. Reports of stressed and depressed students, learning problems, missing students, and overworked teachers are components of the common message. However, as is so often the case, the online approach appears to really work for some who would like to continue in this mode. Larger Minnesota schools have recognized this preference as an important individual difference and are scrambling to respond with a long-term commitment to an online option. This recent story from the Minneapolis Star Tribune offers some insight into how intend to respond.
There are 38 state-approved online programs operating now, and the Minnesota Department of Education typically gets three or four applications for new online learning programs each year. All approved programs are open to students statewide.
While most states offer some limited alternatives to traditional face to face attendance, the difference here seems to be the increased commitment of individual school districts to respond and not just pass interested students on to existing online programs. What is unclear now is whether the COVID experience has created a short or long-term interest in a different learning experience.
Basic stats concerning online K12 education
I wonder how many teacher preparation programs are preparing educators for this instructional option.