Frisco ISD cancels plan for permanent online learning option due to lack of state funding

Frisco ISD is unable to continue plans for a virtual learning option in the 2021-22 school year, according to a letter to district families released June 8 from Superintendent Mike Waldrip.

FISD intended to offer a permanent virtual school option for students in third to 12th grades starting in the fall. However, the regular session of the Texas Legislature ended May 31 without final approval of a bill that would have expanded online learning and provided funding for full-time virtual students.

“With no signs that the Texas Education Agency will act soon to grant districts a waiver, Frisco ISD has no choice but to discontinue planning for this option in the coming school year,” Waldrip said in the letter.

In the letter, Waldrip said the “vast majority” of students already plan to attend classes on campus but added the families of nearly 1,000 students planned to take advantage of virtual school.

The superintendent advocated for online learning in his letter.

“Expanded opportunities for students through online and blended learning was a priority for Frisco ISD prior to the pandemic and will continue to be a priority for the district in the future,” Waldrip said. “As we have seen over the past year, online learning offers students additional choice and flexibility and is preferred by some for a variety of reasons.”

The first day of school is Aug. 12.