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Wagner: Continued Analysis of Virtual Learning Necessary Before Moving Forward

Joint Committee on the Public Schools Co-Chair Cites a Need for More Information at Close of First Hearing on the Topic of Virtual Charter Schools

(TRENTON) — Assemblywoman Connie Wagner (D-Bergen), the Co-Chair of the Joint Committee on the Public Schools, issued the following statement Wednesday at the conclusion of the committee’s first hearing on the topic of virtual charter schools and virtual learning:

“We had a very lively, open discussion today on the topic of virtual charter schools that brought up wide-ranging concerns about their benefits and detriments.

“As a retired public school teacher, I support blended learning and feel that there is definitely a place for technology and online learning in the classroom. My hesitation stems from handing the keys to that method of learning over to non- and for-profit entities. I am not convinced they are the best delivery system for blended learning and, before we take steps down that road, we need to know precisely what we’re getting into.

“We took the first step in answering some of the questions surrounding concerns with accreditation, funding and student authenticity today and I anticipate that we will have many more spirited and informative discussions in the months to come.”