IDAHO FALLS – Middle and high school students in the Idaho Falls district can take core classes online this coming fall, as Local News 8 first reported.
The district plans to roll out online classes in phases. The first trimester of the school year will include English, math, science, social studies, speech and health. In the second trimester, the district plans to introduce electives and Advanced Placement classes.
“We’ve recognized a need that our parents and community have expressed — to provide more flexibility and options for credits, for learning, and to address the unique needs of some of our students,” Thomas Kennedy, the district’s federal programs director, told Local News 8.
Students taking online classes will still be enrolled at their in-person middle or high school, and will be able to participate in extracurriculars and school activities.
Superintendent Karla LaOrange said the new program offers flexibility for students who need a break from in-person school or want to accelerate their education.
The announcement comes after a bill Gov. Brad Little signed last Friday cut the Idaho Digital Learning Alliance’s budget in half. Many districts use the statewide online learning program to make up for gaps in course offerings.
Families interested in Idaho Falls’ online classes should contact the office at their child’s school.
