Minnesota was one of the first states to have fully web-based online schools and as a result has a robust history of policies, professional learning communities, and new technologies. K-12 Despite the steady growth of online schooling since the 1990s, the field lacks rigorous research to inform policies and pedagogy. After the collective emergency distance learning experience in 2020, there has been a proliferation of new programs and enrolled students across the country and here in Minnesota.

The Learning + Technologies Collaborative and the Center for Applied Research and Educational Improvement co-published “The Landscape of K-12 Online Schooling in Minnesota”. This landscape report describes the current and evolving contests of K-12 online learning in Minnesota. Based on survey data from Minnesota online program coordinators, adult family members of online students, and teachers within district and charter online programs. The survey findings in this report provide insight on:

• Descriptions of online schooling practices in Minnesota
• Who is engaged in online schooling and why they chose the modality for learning
• The successes and challenges of K-12 online schools
• Future insights and data needed

This report is designed to provide information to those who are already engaged in online schooling, those planning to engage in online schooling, and those who would like to learn more about online schooling in Minnesota. Please share this report with anyone who may be interested in its contents and connect with us to discuss implications and future work.

Find the full report here: z.umn.edu/K12online

Citation: Potter, L., Peterson, L., Scharber, C., Illes, M., Goerdt, A., & Evenson, A. (2022). The Landscape of K-12 Online Schooling in Minnesota. University of Minnesota.