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The issue here is HOW are the funds used.  Virtual education has a much lower overhead cost than other schools (buildings, buses, school lunches, sports, etc.).  That's how ORCA and other virtual schools are able to provide materials, computers, etc. free of charge.  Please note that this doesn't mean the students get to keep the materials afterwards; they must return computers, textbooks, etc. at the end of the school year. 

Just wanted to clarify here. 

posted 3 years, 2 months ago
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I agree with this.  The focus is quality of education.  If student needs are being met, it doesn't matter where they are met.  For some students, ORCA and other virtual schooling is helping them succeed.  For others, the virtual environment would not work.  We need to allow choices for success.

posted 3 years, 2 months ago
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I think one thing that school adminstrators forget is that the funding for students is for the students, NOT for the district.  The student's need is a priority. 

posted 3 years, 2 months ago
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Absolutely not!  I'm a firm believer in brick and mortar/traditional education.  Our school model does NOT work for every student, just like the traditional model does NOT work for every student.  I am a firm believer that a variety of schooling models should be available for students. 

posted 3 years, 2 months ago
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ORCA has one of the highest percentage of highly qualified, experience teachers in the state of Oregon. 

On the State Report Card we were ranked as an Exceptional school. 

We currently meet the requirements for Oregon's 2012 diploma requirements. 

Many of my students, who are 12th graders, are applying for Ivy League colleges. 

As I've stated to a number of college representatives, our school provides a unique environment that I feel highly qualifies the student for college, because of the requirements of time management, self motivation, and the demands of our high school curriculum. 

We offer an opportunity for our students to complete every advanced placement class. 

Overall, the 3 years I've spent as a teacher in ORCA have been the best of my 6 years as a professional educator.  I'm thrilled to be part of this amazing school.

posted 3 years, 2 months ago
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