Red Oak school district joins virtual learning academy

The Red Oak School District is expanding its virtual learning.
During a special meeting on March 6, the Red Oak School Board unanimously approved a proposal to partner with Stellar Virtual in establishing a statewide K-12 virtual academy.
Stellar Virtual operates a network of online academies serving over 17,000 students in Texas, Arizona, and Indiana. The organization is also set to launch a program in Tennessee this fall. Red Oak superintendent Ron Lorenz said Stellar Virtual offers asynchronous learning complemented by live support to ensure student success.
“Stellar Virtual’s instructional model combines flexibility, personalized learning plans, and robust support systems. They only employ state-certified teachers with expertise in online education. Their curriculum covers grades K-12, and is fully aligned with state standards. It covers all core subjects as well as a variety of elective courses,” commented Lorenz. “It includes interactive and engaging resources that go beyond typical “review and assess” computer modules. The curriculum emphasizes career pathways, college readiness, and incorporates various supports to promote student well-being and a strong sense of belonging. Additionally, the curriculum can be customized to meet the unique needs of faith-based organizations.
Under the terms of the agreement, Stellar Virtual will manage all operational aspects of the academy, including curriculum development, instruction, assessment, staffing, data management, marketing, testing, and technology. The district will maintain overall oversight of the program and be responsible for managing tuition funds.
“In exchange for managing the turnkey program, Stellar Virtual will receive 95% of all program funds, including state and federal categorical and grant funds, with the exception of Teacher Leadership and Compensation funds. The district will retain 5% of all program funds, including state and federal categorical funds, for students residing outside its district boundaries and Montgomery County,” advised Lorenz. “For students within its district boundaries and Montgomery County, the district will retain 50% of all program funds, including state and federal categorical funds. Additionally, the district will retain 100% of all state Teacher Leadership and Compensation funds. The district is guaranteed a minimum annual payment of $100,000 for each year of the agreement term.”
Lorenz added they have a target enrollment of 500 to 750 students for the 2025-2026 school year, which could generate more than $570,000 for the school district. This amount could increase as online enrollment grows. At a minimum, the district is guaranteed $100,000 per year.
“In addition to the financial advantages, the district stands to gain several other benefits. These include retaining students who might otherwise choose other virtual programs and re-engaging students who have either left the district or are currently homeschooled. The program also offers an innovative school choice option that extends beyond our current capacity, providing an alternative for students who are not being fully served by existing educational options,” stated Lorenz.
However, Lorenz said there are inherent risks associated with this program. The most significant risk is the potential for low school performance designations, such as “needs improvement” or “comprehensive support,” which would trigger corrective actions. Additionally, the program is likely to face administrative challenges related to state reporting and billing. There is also the possibility that the program may not receive approval from the state.
“There are also several key points to clarify. This program will not result in any additional costs to the district or taxpayers. It will not affect IHSAA or IGHSAU classifications, nor will Stellar Virtual recruit our students or teachers. Additionally, the program will not interfere with or impact existing student services,” Lorenz said.
The contract is set for three consecutive school years, with an automatic two-year renewal unless either party provides written notice of its intent not to renew by November 30, prior to the expiration date of June 30, 2028. If the state fails to approve the virtual academy application in time to market for the 2025-2026 school year, the launch and expiration date will be delayed by one year. In this case, the district will receive a $10,000 stipend to cover incidental planning costs.
“We are excited about this opportunity. At the very least, it offers us a way to address the challenges of declining enrollment and inadequate state funding. We also recognize that the education landscape is changing. We can either get on the train, or wave to it as it leaves the station. We chose to adapt,” Lorenz commented.
In other business, the board:
• Approved the purchase of math intervention materials relating to ESSA school improvement plans, in the amount of $12,808.
Approved issuing Roger Vannausdle a lead maintenance technician supplemental stipend in the amount of $8,000, effective Feb. 17.
• Approved the hires of Kya Torres and Reagan Nissen-Eubank as paraprofessionals at the Red Oak Jr./Sr. High School.
• Approved the resignation of Michael Nordeen as head bowling coach and head football coach at the Red Oak Jr./Sr. High School, effective at the end of 2024-25 school year.
• Approved out of state trip requests for the third grade students to travel to Omaha, Neb. to visit the Durham Museum on April 23; the sixth grade students to travel to Omaha, Neb. to attend the Kiewit Luminarium on April 17, and for the high school track team to travel to Maryville, Mo. to compete in the Northwest Missouri indoor track meet on March 22.