Background and Purpose

Online and blended learning is growing at a rapid pace and holds great promise as an instructional strategy to expand and customize learning opportunities for students. Some national experts predict that 50 percent of all high school classes in the U.S. will be taught either online or in a blended format over the next 5 years. Most states now require students to take at least one online or blended course as part of their graduation requirement.

When implemented well, online and blended learning options give teachers an opportunity to transform the educational experience — to meet the needs of a broader group of learners, individualize instruction, and transform education for everyone — it should not be seen as a replacement for either the traditional high school experience nor for individual teachers.

The need for change has become more pronounced over the last decade as technology has become more ubiquitous and new constraints have been placed on school budgets. School districts that are not prepared to offer online and blended learning options for students experience increased competition for enrollments from a variety of public and private online providers, including charter and cyber charter schools.

The Garnet Valley School District understands that families in today's complex society need flexibility and options to meet their child's individual educational needs. The district is constantly developing and improving our systems and structures for all students with the renewed focus on personalized learning for all students.

This site should serve as a resource for school board members, administrators, teachers, parents and others in the community as it provides:

• an overview and brief history of online and blended learning in Garnet Valley
• an explanation and links to the Future Ready Framework which will drive the district's work in the years to come
• a view of the professional learning opportunities for faculty interested in teaching in a blended format
• common frequently asked questions concerning blended learning
• and further readings and research on the benefits of online and blended learning