The future of the Grand Forks Virtual High School has become a focal point in ongoing budget discussions, with indications that the program may be spared from planned cuts. During a School Board meeting on February 9, board members deliberated on the virtual school’s status, originally earmarked for reductions amid a significant budget deficit projected at $4.4 million for the 2025-2026 school year.
The budget adjustments stem from a thorough realignment process initiated after the school district disclosed its financial shortfall in September 2023. In January, administrators presented 52 potential budget cuts and revenue opportunities, totaling $4.9 million. Despite the initial plan to save $70,000 annually by cutting the virtual program, board members expressed hesitation about terminating the initiative after just one year of operation.
Amber Flynn, a member of the School Board, articulated concerns regarding the implications of discontinuing the virtual high school. “There’s really no other rationale (for reduction) other than it’s been recently added and it has a dollar figure attached to it,” Flynn noted. She emphasized the importance of allowing new programs time to demonstrate their effectiveness, suggesting that eliminating the school could discourage future educational innovations.
Superintendent Terry Brenner presented two options to the board: either discontinue the virtual school for the next academic year or maintain it to assess whether it can achieve self-sustaining enrollment levels. While no formal vote was taken, several board members expressed support for extending the program for another year. “We should keep this for another year,” stated Jay Kleven, reinforcing the need for adequate time to evaluate the program’s impact.
Currently, there are 27 students enrolled in the virtual school, overseen by three part-time staff members. Questions arose regarding future enrollment figures, with Catherine Gillach, Associate Superintendent, admitting that predicting numbers is challenging. She did mention, however, that three students from outside the district had already expressed interest in joining next year, possibly indicating a growing demand.
The virtual high school’s impact on students has garnered significant community support. During a special School Board meeting in January, community member Jimmy Sweat highlighted the program’s crucial role in the life of his daughter, who faces physical and mental health challenges. “If the program is taken away, it’s going to be highly detrimental to her and any other kids who partake in it,” Sweat remarked, emphasizing the transformative influence the school has had on his daughter’s education.
An official vote regarding the virtual school’s inclusion in the budget cuts is scheduled for the next School Board meeting in March 2024. Brenner reiterated the district’s commitment to achieving a total reduction of $4.4 million but acknowledged the possibility of introducing additional budget concepts in the future if needed.
As the board continues to navigate these financial challenges, the fate of the Grand Forks Virtual High School remains uncertain, with many parents and advocates closely monitoring the situation.