OKCPS Offers Permanent Online-Learning Option

A metro school district is investing in a long-term virtual learning option. They said this was in the making long before the pandemic. 

Oklahoma City Public Schools is calling it E3-Online Learning. One of the program teachers said the unique structure allows her more one-on-one instruction than ever before. 

“I have closer relationship with my student than I ever had when I was in the classroom,” said Beth Brown, the Third Grade E3 Teacher. 

“You can play football at a school; you can be in band at a real school. You can be a public-school student and still have this virtual school option. We have a councilor that is dedicated to this program,” said Kenny Ward, the OKCPS Director of Online Learning. 

The virtual learning option is available for pre-k to 12th grade students. 

“For students that may have social anxiety, things like that, we know that they have wanted this kind of option for how they get their instruction and education,” said Carson Aldridge, the Assistant Director for Online Learning. 

“This really gives them the best of both worlds because they can be deeply involved in their kids’ education, but we provide the device, the curriculum, and the teacher,” said Ward. 

The district’s goal is to empower, engage and elevate students. 

“I have a single father who has been able to take his son as he goes on business trips and still be able to get the education that his child needs,” said Brown. 

Beth Brown has been an E3 teacher for the past two years. She said the flexibility allows her to be more involved with parents and students. 

“Whenever a parent needs me, they don’t necessarily need to wait. If it’s at 10 a.m. on their coffee break I can schedule that time where otherwise I wouldn’t be able to if I had students in person,” she said. 

Students have live class sessions four times a week, 24/7 access to tutoring and virtual office hours. 

“It’s not just an online program, yes that is the bulk of our curriculum, but you are getting certified teachers that know exactly what your children need,” said the E3 Teacher. 

The program also has dedicated special education teachers to give all students an opportunity for them to learn in this setting. 

Students who would like to enroll in the program for the upcoming school year are encouraged to do so before July 15th. Parents can enroll their students as OKCPS students and check the box that says ‘E3 Virtual Learning.” 

Parents can contact the district at 405-587-3333 for more information. The program also accepts transfer students.