After returning to full-time face-to-face learning for the 2021-22 school year, the Georgetown ISD implemented a voluntary virtual learning program for all students in November, two months after Gov. Greg Abbott signed Senate Bill 15, which allowed for funding to be allocated to districts for virtual learning.
In October, the district surveyed 2,100 students with 700 expressing interest in a remote learning option. When the program launched, 50 students in kindergarten through eighth grade enrolled. Additionally, 15 students at Richarte High School enrolled. According to its website, Richarte is the district's alternative high school of choice, which was able to support flexible learning prior to 2021.
According to the district, there were 12,792 students enrolled in GISD as of Jan. 19, but 27 students remain in the virtual program. The district no longer tracks enrollment from Richarte.
GISD Executive Director of Communications Melinda Brasher reported the district will continue the program for the extent of the 2021-22 school year, but the decision to utilize it next year has not been discussed.
