For Immediate Release: March 3, 2010

STANISLAWSKI’S VIRTUAL SCHOOL BILL PASSES SENATE

Senate Bill 2129 by Senator Gary Stanislawski, R-Tulsa, received overwhelming bipartisan approval from the Senate today, advancing legislation that would create Oklahoma’s Statewide Virtual School Task Force.

Stanislawski’s task force will explore the establishment of a statewide virtual school in Oklahoma, by conducting research on a virtual school’s enrollment process, types of courses to be taught, services to be provided, location of operations and funding.

“This legislation will give Oklahomans the opportunity to prepare our students to compete globally,” said Stanislawski.

“Senate Bill 2129 has received a groundswell of support outside the Senate, because people see the benefit of the enhanced course offerings virtual schools bring to our students. Time and time again we see evidence that our students learn in different ways and in different environments. Virtual schools provide a unique avenue for students to learn in what may be their best learning style.”

Research shows that states with virtual schools see great progress in their students and education test scores.

Stanislawski added that the rigorous material virtual schools provide will help raise our academic standards and move our education system forward.

Senate Bill 2129 now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration.

For more information contact:
Sen. Stanislawski: 405-521-5624