January 15, 2026

Addressing Confusion re: Online Learning vs. E-Learning

MDE has requested assistance in sharing the following information:

“There were no changes to the online options available to districts under state statute. Last Thursday’s message from MDE reminded districts of the online options that are available. 

E-Learning Day statutes were implemented at a time when schools and districts had to be approved to offer online instruction—the Online Instruction Act in 2023 allows more flexibility for online learning. 

Here is a quick summary of the difference:

E-Learning Days: The E-Learning Days law (Minnesota Statutes 2022, Section 120A.414) provides an option for districts and charter schools to establish a plan where:

• Each student is provided full access to online instruction provided by students' individual teachers.

• Implementation is due to inclement weather.

• Up to five days in one school year are included.

• Days are counted as instructional days and included as hours of instruction.

Online Instruction: Charter schools and districts can provide online instruction to their own enrolled students. Plans for online instruction need to consider how the needs of all students can be met including students with disabilities and students learning English. Requirements for online instruction are outlined in Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 124D.094, and additional guidance is available on the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) website, including information specific to special education.”

Mark your Calendar!

The annual Back to School Conference, facilitated by MASA and content provided by MDE, will be held at the Marriott NW on August 4, 2026. Be sure to save the date so that you can attend, learn with your colleagues, and welcome a new MASA Executive Director!

Revised 2026 Superintendent Model Contract

Check your inbox! The 2026 version was sent to you this week via MASA.

Leadership Matters!

“Great leaders do not aspire to reach their own greatness by keeping others down. They realize the more they surround themselves with talent and strong people, the more successful everyone will be.” - Lolly Daskal, “The Leadership Gap: What gets between you and your greatness”