Virtual schooling has become increasingly popular in Indiana in recent years, with thousands of new students opting for online education. One such institution leading the way is the Indiana Gateway Digital Academy (INGDA), an online-only academy that partners with Clarksville Community Schools. According to Jamey Callane, the executive director of INGDA, there has been a noticeable shift in public perception towards online schooling, making it more mainstream than ever before.
The demand for online education is evident in the enrollment numbers of various school districts across the state. Clarksville Community Schools saw a significant increase of 2,685 students between the 2022 and 2023 school years, while Union School Corporation experienced a growth of 900 students during the same period. These numbers can be attributed to the partnerships these districts have with online schools like INGDA and Indiana Digital Learning School.
INGDA, which enrolled approximately 2,268 students in 2021, is expected to more than double its enrollment this year, nearing its cap of 6,500 students. The academy is one of five tuition-free public online school options in Indiana under the umbrella of Stride, an education company. Adam Hawf, Stride’s superintendent of schools, believes that the increase in enrollment can be attributed to the positive experiences families had with online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The pandemic forced many families to try online learning out of necessity, and some found that it worked well for their students. This shift in perception has led to a lasting impact on the way people view online education. Callane noted that online schooling is now seen as a more mainstream option, rather than just for unique circumstances.
Hawf predicts that virtual school enrollment will continue to rise in the coming years, not because parents specifically want their students to attend online school, but because of the options and flexibility it offers. Families are looking for rigorous academic standards and a high school experience that prepares their children for success after graduation, whether that be in a career or college.
Overall, the trend towards virtual schooling in Indiana is expected to continue, with more families recognizing the benefits and opportunities that online education can provide. As the landscape of education continues to evolve, virtual schooling is likely to play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of learning in the state.