With remote learning now a permanent part of public education, the Hudson School Board is updating its policies to reflect state rules, technology changes, and the growing number of students who take online courses. The Board reviewed a proposed revision to its remote learning policy during its most recent meeting, sending it forward for a second reading.
The updated policy begins by defining “remote learning/education” as any instructional mode that is not in-person, including correspondence, video-based instruction, internet-based courses, online programs such as VLACS, hybrid models, or any combination of these.
Under state Department of Education rules, remote learning may be offered only under three circumstances:
- When weather makes it unsafe to transport students to or from school.
- When a parent, guardian, or adult student requests remote learning, such as an online course.
- When included in a parent-approved program under School Board policy IHBI.
For district-wide remote learning during inclement weather, the policy states that the district may elect to provide instruction remotely pursuant to School Board policy IC.
The policy encourages students to take advantage of remote learning opportunities to enhance their education. Extended Learning Opportunities and Alternative Learning Plans would continue to follow policies IHBH and IHBI.
Regarding high school credit, the policy states that students must have remote courses approved by the building principal ahead of time. Policy IK, which governs earning high school credit through competency achievement, also applies. The policy clarifies:
a. Students cannot be required to take remote courses to meet required competencies; remote courses may only serve as electives or equivalents to in-person options.
b. Remote learning options used as part of the 43 courses required for an approved high school must be listed in the school’s program of studies.
c. The district must provide any necessary equipment, software, or internet access for district-based remote learning that counts toward required coursework.
Before enrolling in an independent remote learning program or course, students must obtain written approval from the building principal. They must meet prerequisites and provide teacher or counselor recommendations confirming they have the academic preparation and maturity needed for remote learning.
Approved remote learning courses must meet state and local standards, be delivered by licensed educators, and include provisions for feedback and monitoring. A syllabus outlining prerequisites, learning goals, evaluation criteria, and teacher responsibilities must be submitted before approval.
Students taking approved online courses must be enrolled in the district and complete the courses during the regular school day unless special circumstances allow remote access. Summer online courses follow the same rules.
When students participate in remote learning on school grounds, a teacher or staff member will provide general supervision and assist students who encounter difficulties. The building principal will assign a teacher to monitor progress, grading, and testing when applicable.
Students earning credit for remote learning must demonstrate competency achievement and participate in all required statewide assessments. Credit is not granted until the final grade is submitted to the principal or designee with feedback from the online instructor.
