Letter: Protect virtual alternative school from proposed new rule at state education department

Originally published on Tulsa World – November 9th, 2023

Like so many Oklahoma families who have children with disabilities, we struggled to find a suitable education for my son, Reagan. He has suffered tremendously at the hands of cruel bullies who would physically attack and mentally harass him at school.  

For Reagan’s safety, we turned to online alternative education at Insight School of Oklahoma. This life-changing decision has radically improved my son’s quality of life and ability to learn. ISOK meets all his educational needs. He is thriving due to the school’s mission of helping students succeed who have struggled in traditional school environments.  

But now, the Oklahoma State Department of Education has proposed rule changes, which would ban virtual alternative education and essentially shut down ISOK.  

ISOK is the only school of its kind and eliminating this option for Reagan and over 1,000 other students is unfathomable. ISOK serves students with unique needs that a traditional school cannot meet.  

I ask our State Board of Education to ensure my parental choice and protect my child’s right to learn in an environment where he thrives. 

Please join me in submitting public comments to stop these rule changes before Nov. 15 by emailing rules@sde.ok.gov.  

To learn more about Insight School of Oklahoma, visit https://insightok.k12.com/.