Letter: Stop state education department rule that would harm virtual online school

Originally published in the Tulsa World on November 17, 2023

As a parent of seven children, two of whom attend Insight School of Oklahoma, I want to highlight the profound impact this virtual alternative school has had on my daughters’ lives, particularly my 15-year-old, during the challenging times of the pandemic.

Concerns about my diabetic son’s vulnerability to COVID-19 complications prompted us to opt for virtual learning during her sixth-grade year. However, a return to traditional school for seventh grade resulted in relentless bullying related to her speech disability, leading to anxiety and self-harm.

Despite seeking help from the school, the response was inadequate, prompting us to turn to our pediatrician, who directed us to counseling and ISOK. Two years later, my daughter is thriving, a stark contrast to the dark period she endured in the traditional school setting.

Similarly, my 13-year-old, facing challenges with an individualized education program in a chaotic middle school environment, found solace at ISOK. Since starting in August, she has experienced a remarkable academic turnaround, achieving As, Bs and veryhigh Cs.

Having chosen both traditional and alternative education settings for my children, I emphasize that not all children fit into one box.

While my son thrives in a traditional brick-and-mortar public school, my daughters, scarred by previous experiences, cannot return to on-site learning. ISOK has become their lifeline for well-being and academic success, highlighting the necessity of diverse educational options.

Given these transformative experiences, I urge State Superintendent Ryan Walters and the Department of Education to reconsider Rule 210:35-29-8 (“Proposed rules threaten existence of Oklahoma online school with 1,150 students,” Nov. 8.)

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