SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) today announced a new model for virtual learning in Illinois. The Illinois Virtual Course Program now offers 840 courses from six providers to expand the rigor and diversity of learning opportunities for students across the state. The Illinois Virtual Course Program partners with brick-and-mortar schools to supplement the courses available to middle and high school students. The Illinois Virtual Course Program offers core, elective, Advanced Placement, and credit recovery options.
The new model for supplemental virtual learning in Illinois moves from a single provider of online education to a menu of providers. The new course catalog expands Illinois’ virtual course offerings by 775 classes. The new model also makes the process easier for districts to work with approved providers by establishing master contracts with cost-controlled rates.
“The Illinois Virtual Course Program allows students across the state to get ahead on required courses, take advanced subjects, learn languages, and stay on track toward graduation,” said State Superintendent of Education Dr. Carmen I. Ayala. “The new course catalog offers even more choices for Illinois schools to provide an equitable and well-rounded education to all students.”
Illinois school districts can begin accessing courses in the Illinois Virtual Course Program now, with instruction available to begin as early as Jan. 1, 2020.
All courses in the catalog are taught by Illinois-licensed instructors and are aligned to the Illinois Learning Standards.
Public school districts that enroll students in courses from the catalog can request reimbursement from ISBE, subject to appropriations by the General Assembly. More information about the reimbursement process is forthcoming.
