281—15.3(256) Online learning—private providers.

1. 15.3(1)  Online learning model established. An online learning program model is established by the director, pursuant to Iowa Code section 256.9, that provides districts and accredited nonpublic schools with a list of approved online providers. Approved providers will meet criteria for approval in accordance with Iowa Code section 256.43(1)“a.”
2. 15.3(2)  Use of approved private providers. Courses developed by private providers may be utilized by a school district or school in implementing a high-quality online learning program in circumstances described in Iowa Code section 256.43(2)“a.”

3. 15.3(3)  Approval criteria. The department will maintain a list of approved online providers that provide course content through an online learning platform whose content and delivery meet the following provisions:

   1. a. Courses meet the standards of Iowa Code section 256.7(32)“c.”
   2. b. The provider supplies coursework customized to the needs of the student.
   3. c. The provider offers a means for a student to demonstrate competency in completed online coursework.
   4. d. Courses provide online content and instruction evaluated on the basis of student learning outcomes.

4. 15.3(4)  Approval process. Private providers of online course content or full-time online instruction will apply for approval to offer such services to Iowa school districts and accredited nonpublic schools a minimum of once every five years on forms provided by the department. Applications to provide services may be received at any time; however, the department will give preference to applications received no later than May 1 during the year prior to the school year in which the provider intends to provide services. Applications received by the deadline of May 1 will be answered no later than June 1. An approved provider will also apply in each year that any of these alterations take place, which are substantial in nature:

   1. a. The provider altered the courses or content offered by either adding or subtracting grade levels or subjects.
   2. b. The provider altered the delivery of the courses or content offered by altering the learning management system or delivery of assessments.
   3. c. The provider altered the evaluation of student learning used in the system.
   4. d. The provider altered the online learning content or delivery in any other way that may reasonably be considered material to a school district considering the use of a private provider.

[ARC 7789C, IAB 4/17/24, effective 5/22/24]