Columbia County School Board approves full‑time 'Columbia Online' virtual school

Miss Cox presented a proposal to establish "Columbia Online," a district‑run online school offering both full‑time and part‑time enrollment, saying it would give families flexible options and help the district retain students who are otherwise seeking online opportunities outside the district. "Columbia Online represents a strategic response to the evolving needs of our students and families," she said.

Cox told the board that neighboring districts have online or distance programs and that Columbia Online would allow the district to remain competitive and keep families connected to Columbia County Schools. A board member asked whether surrounding counties run similar programs; Cox replied that many do and described part‑time and a la carte approaches she has observed.

Following the presentation, a motion to approve Columbia Online was made and seconded; the board approved the action by voice vote. Madam Chair called for the motion, a board member moved to approve and another seconded; the official recorded outcome in the meeting was "It is approved." The board did not provide additional implementation details during the meeting.

The board also heard assurances from staff that Columbia Online would include both full‑time and part‑time enrollment options and that staff would continue to monitor program competitiveness and student retention.