Saskatchewan gov’t centralizing online learning program

Saskatchewan is rolling out a new model for online learning.

Starting in the 2023-24 school year, any students in kindergarten through Grade 12 will have access to a central online learning provider.

“Our government firmly believes that the best place for students is in a classroom, however in the event where students are in need of online learning, we want to ensure that all students will have access to high-quality education regardless of where they are living,” Education Minister Dustin Duncan said in a release.

“We are pleased to enhance their experience through consistency, accessibility and choice, and to best meet whatever their personal learning needs may be.”

The government said most of the students will be from public school divisions, which are to be the focus of the online learning school. Separate school divisions, the Conseil des écoles fransaskoises and qualified independent schools must apply to the Ministry of Education if they want to offer the service.

“Teachers, regardless of where they teach, will have employment opportunities to work for the online school this coming winter,” the release said.

The government said the amount of its funding is still being determined, as are staffing and funding models and the platform provider. Student registration is expected to open this winter.

More information is available by emailing learning.inquiry@gov.sk.ca.