As we continue our exploring the many facets of digital learning here at FutureEd Solutions, we turn our focus to the financial benefits districts can reap through establishing a Digital Learning Academy. Ohio is used as our case study, with lessons that can be applied to districts nationwide.
The Cost-Effectiveness of Digital Learning
Investing in a Digital Learning Academy can lead to cost savings in the long term. In most cases the Digital Academy can be a revenue generator for the district. This additional revenue can be used to fund special projects or supplement the overall general fund of the development. Traditional brick-and-mortar schools incur significant costs including building maintenance, utilities, transportation, and more. A Digital Learning Academy, however, mitigates many of these expenses.
A 2018 report by the Thomas B. Fordham Institute found that online schools in Ohio spent 27% less per pupil compared to traditional public schools. This reduction in expenditure opens up funds that can be reinvested in improving the quality of education, enhancing resources, and expanding digital infrastructure.
Boosting Enrollment
A Digital Learning Academy can attract a wider range of students, including homeschoolers, students seeking a flexible learning schedule, or those who prefer a personalized, self-paced learning environment. This can result in increased enrollment, and consequently, increased funding.
In Ohio, state funding for schools is primarily based on student enrollment. With a Digital Learning Academy, districts can retain local students who might otherwise opt for homeschooling or out-of-district online schools, and even draw in students from outside the district.
The district keeps control of student participation in the Digital Academy by establishing clear criteria for enrollment and ongoing participation. This criteria serves as a control to ensure the Academy is a good fit for students and ongoing motivation for the participating students.
Enhancing Grant Opportunities
Digital education initiatives can open doors to grants and funding opportunities not available to traditional learning formats. Federal and state grants, as well as private funding, often prioritize innovative educational approaches that leverage technology to improve student outcomes.
Reducing Absenteeism
Online learning platforms can also help decrease absenteeism. With the ability to access coursework anytime, anywhere, students are less likely to miss out on learning. Lower absentee rates can directly impact school funding, as Ohio’s funding model partially takes attendance into account.
Conclusion
While setting up a Digital Learning Academy can require a significant initial investment in technology and professional development, having a seasoned partner like FutureEd Solutions reduces your risks and investment to almost nothing. From reducing operational costs to boosting enrollment and reducing absenteeism, digital learning is not only an investment in our children’s future but also a strategic fiscal decision for school districts.
Remember, while we’ve focused on Ohio in this blog post, these insights are applicable across the U.S. Please subscribe and like the post if you did.
FutureEd Solutions (FES) is a leading provider of Blended learning solutions. Their unique partnership approach with districts drives better outcomes. Contact FES today to learn more. www.FESNow.org or 614-300-5200