Industry Leaders Gather at K-12 Online Learning Conference

K-12 digital learning practitioners, researchers, and policymakers came together to share ideas, best practices, strategies and experiences at the inaugural Digital Learning Annual Conference (DLAC) in Austin, TX, April 1-3.

Minnesota Connections Academy Principal Melissa Gould was among the speakers, leading a table talk discussion on revisions coming to the current iNACOL National Standards for Quality Online Learning standards and their impact on online schools, including accountability frameworks, school programs, teacher training, and course development.

Included in the discussion was how, in a quality online program, leadership needs to be transparent in its management of the program, providing information on progress towards attainment of goals, alignment with policies and standards, and achievement of student learning outcomes. Learning programs must be rigorous enough to prepare students adequately for post-secondary education and careers. And stakeholders must be confident in a program’s ability to teach students and help them not only achieve credit but also learn the skills they need to be successful in college, careers, and life.

With more than 15 years of experience in the education field as a teacher and principal, Gould knows that engaging students is key to their academic success. She started as principal at Minnesota Connections Academy in 2008. For more information on Minnesota Connections Academy, visit https://www.connectionsacademy....