What are the legal implications of online learning in the school setting?

In the school setting, online learning has both educational and legal implications. Online learning is becoming increasingly popular in Washington, and as such, state laws have been created to ensure students’ legal rights during their virtual schooling experience. Washington’s education laws require that virtual learning must meet the same academic standards as traditional instruction. School districts must ensure that students receive appropriate instructional resources and that the curriculum used is of the same quality as when learning takes place in a face-to-face setting. The Washington State Board of Education has further specified that the same policies regarding student conduct, discipline, and confidentiality must be followed for those participating in online learning as with traditional students. This includes the same anti-discrimination and anti-harassment protections against students based on race, gender, ethnicity, or any other protected class. In addition, parental involvement and support must still occur even when a student is participating in online learning. School districts must also provide students and parents with the necessary access to technology and support services needed to facilitate online learning. This may include providing devices and software, webhosting services, technical training, and additional counseling services. Finally, the laws provide mechanisms of accountability for the school district and its teachers. The State Board of Education has set standards to measure both the educational quality of online instruction and the compliance with the state laws. Furthermore, the board may provide for external review and evaluation of the school district’s online instructional programs and services.

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What are the legal implications of online learning in the school setting?

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