Virtual elementary pilot: hybrid model serving a small cohort, district plans increased outreach

Becky Hogenkamp, administrator of the district's virtual elementary program, told the board the pilot year provided a hybrid option that pairs online instruction with a required two‑hour weekly face‑to‑face session. She reported the program has served more than 35 students over the year, with enrollment peaking near 20; at the time of the study session, enrollment was about 10–12 students.

Hogenkamp described services available to virtual students: district‑provided Chromebooks and materials, access to specials (music, library, PE) and counseling at Meadowbrook, grade‑level field trips, and virtual special‑education and speech services. She said the hybrid face‑to‑face sessions are scheduled by grade so peers meet together and teachers can plan, and that afternoon tutoring or makeup time is available.

Board members and administrators discussed growth strategy and outreach; Hogenkamp said the district could improve communications and marketing and partner with community groups and the base to reach families. She also said the program allowed students traveling or on medical leave to remain enrolled and that the district has declined enrollment in a few cases where attendance/truancy concerns indicated the option was not a good fit.

On outcomes, Hogenkamp said students with sustained participation "have definitely shown growth" and are keeping up with peers; she noted students who failed to participate in face‑to‑face requirements were sometimes returned to their home school under existing attendance policy.

The board did not take action; the presentation was informational and staff will refine outreach and staffing plans before next school year.