September 19, 2011
We found that online learning, which is an option for every K-12 student statewide, can provide significant benefits but has also raised concerns regarding course-completion rates, drop-out rates, and standardized test results for full-time online students. In addition, staffing and resource problems have hindered the Minnesota Department of Education's ability to fulfill its online learning responsibilities. We recommend that the department redesign its approach to overseeing online schools to provide greater attention to performance.
