'Peace of mind': Local families describe experiences with virtual learning programs
EVANSVILLE, Ind. – Long before COVID-19 forced traditional schools to develop reopening plans for the fall, Leandra Arnold said online learning programs were always a viable option.
Last school year, Arnold decided to enroll her two sons Cage and Joseph Coffman into the Indiana Connections Academy (INCA). Arnold said the virtual learning program proved to benefit her children's academic experience.
"We absolutely cannot come up with any bad things about Indiana Connections," Arnold said. "They've been amazing to work with and It's been a very positive change for our family."
Arnold credits Cage's and Joseph's educational growth to INCA teachers' flexibility and one-on-one instruction.
Like other remote options, INCA allows K-12 students to learn remotely under a curriculum that aligns with state education standards. All required texts and instructional materials are provided to students at no additional cost.
While she's certain many parents want their children in traditional school environments for the fall, Arnold said she's impressed with the Evansville Vanderburgh School Corp. and other area districts for pushing families to consider virtual learning options.
"I know a lot of parents right now are concerned about their children's health, especially people who have children with health issues," Arnold said. "So being able to have that option now to do virtual schooling is definitely a huge bonus for families."
Last week, EVSC Superintendent David Smith announced students will return to schools on Aug. 19. Students were to have returned on Aug. 5, but that was pushed back due to a surge in confirmed COVID-19 cases in Vanderburgh County.
Kassie Keltner said having available local and state virtual learning options has helped ease the anxiety about reopening schools she and other parents are facing.
"Some people don't believe in the coronavirus and some people are scared out of their minds," Keltner said. "For ones with anxiety about it, they have the right to have that anxiety and can have that kind of option to ease that anxiety.
"It gives me peace of mind, and I know a lot of other parents feel the same way."
Keltner said her nine-year-old daughter, Lillian Duff, has largely benefited from at-home learning. During the 2018-2019 academic year, Lillian transitioned from Stockwell Elementary School to participate in K12, an online public school, where she quickly flourished.
Lillian will be fully enrolled at K12 to begin third grade this fall.
While Lillian missed interacting with her Stockwell classmates and teachers, Keltner said her daughter didn't lose out on much. Lillian actively participated in the K12 online classroom and received one-on-one instruction from teachers.
"It's almost as engaging as sitting in a classroom as long as there's not a bunch of distractions." Keltner said.
Once enrolled in the program, Duff received reading books, project assignments, workbooks and other school materials. She recently received a kickball and jump rope for a physical education class she is taking this year.
Arnold said Cage, 15, and his older brother have also taken well to the transition to online learning.
Cage, who's going into his sophomore year at INCA, said he's enjoyed completing work at his own pace. He said this option is even more important given the risks students may face when returning back to school.
Rather than take part in the various safety measures outlined by the EVSC and other districts, requiring face masks and social distancing in school buildings, Cage said students could learn even more effectively from home.
"I think it's a good thing because people aren't always around you, and less people will get sick," Cage said. "I think it's easier to focus without the distractions."
Arnold said she will continue to help educate parents on these virtual options, which she hopes will encourage them to make the leap to remote learning.
"I'm trying to help as many people as I can so they know they're not alone, and I'm willing to give them information," Arnold said. "I know a lot of parents are lost on what to do."
In determining a virtual option, Keltner said parents should research programs outside of INCA, K12 or the EVSC Virtual Academy. Not every virtual option is tailored to every student, she said.