256.43  Online learning program model.
  1.  Online learning program model established.  The director, pursuant to section 256.9, subsection 56, shall establish an online learning program model that provides for the following:
  a.  Online access to high-quality content, instructional materials, and blended learning.
  b.  Coursework customized to the needs of the student using online content.
  c.  A means for a student to demonstrate competency in completed online coursework.
  d.  High-quality online instruction taught by teachers licensed under chapter 272.
  e.  Online content and instruction evaluated on the basis of student learning outcomes.
  f.  Use of funds available for online learning for program development, implementation, and innovation.
  g.  Infrastructure that supports online learning.
  h.  Online administration of online course assessments.
  i.  Criteria for school districts or schools to use when choosing providers of online learning to meet the online learning program requirements specified in rules adopted pursuant to section 256.7, subsection 32, paragraph “a”.
  2.  Private providers.  At the discretion of the school board or authorities in charge of an accredited nonpublic school, after consideration of circumstances created by necessity, convenience, and cost-effectiveness, courses developed by private providers may be utilized by the school district or school in implementing a high-quality online learning program. Courses obtained from private providers shall be taught by teachers licensed under chapter 272.
  3.  Grading.  Grades in online courses shall be based, at a minimum, on whether a student mastered the subject, demonstrated competency, and met the standards established by the school district. Grades shall be conferred only by teachers licensed under chapter 272.
  4.  Accreditation criteria.  All online courses and programs shall meet existing accreditation standards.
2012 Acts, ch 1119, §19
Referred to in §256.7, §256.9