Resolve, To Create a Working Group To Study Multidistrict Online Learning Options in Maine

Sec. 1. Department of Education to create working group. Resolved: That the Department of Education shall create a working group to study the opportunities and challenges presented by establishing multidistrict online learning options for students enrolled in kindergarten to grade 12 public schools in the State. The working group shall evaluate the implementation of existing online learning programs in the State and in other jurisdictions, including programs featuring a blended learning approach that combines face-to-face classroom methods with computer-mediated activities to form an integrated instructional approach. The working group shall also consider online learning options that are learner-centered, that focus on content that is consistent with state learning standards under the Maine Revised Statutes, Title 20-A, section 6209 and that provide equitable educational opportunity for all students; and be it further

Sec. 2. Working group; report. Resolved: That the working group under section 1 must include teachers, administrators, parents, information technology specialists and other persons, groups or entities that have an interest in online learning. The Commissioner of Education shall invite to serve as members of the working group representatives of the following educational associations who are appointed by their respective associations:

1. The Maine Education Association;

2. The Maine Principals' Association;

3. The Maine School Boards Association;

4. The Maine School Superintendents Association;

5. The Association of Computer Technology Educators of Maine;

6. The Maine Parent Teacher Association; and

7. The Maine Administrators of Services for Children with Disabilities.

By January 4, 2013, the Department of Education shall report the findings of the working group along with any suggested legislation to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over education and cultural affairs. The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over education and cultural affairs may submit a bill regarding the subject of the report to the First Regular Session of the 126th Legislature; and be it further

Sec. 3. Funding. Resolved: That the costs to the Department of Education to create the working group and to conduct the study required pursuant to section 1 must be absorbed within existing budgeted resources and through the use of federal and private funds received by the department to carry out the purposes of this resolve.