Public Hearing Alert – Monday, March 8 – SB 977 – AAC Virtual Learning

I just wanted you to know that on Monday, March 8, the Education Committee is holding a public hearing regarding S.B. 977, An Act Concerning Virtual Learning.

The stated purpose of this committee bill is “to require the Department of Education to develop uniform standards for the provision of virtual learning in public schools, conduct a comprehensive audit of virtual learning programs in the state and develop guidelines for training educators in the provision of virtual learning.”

There’s little doubt that the pandemic has had a significant impact on the educational experiences of our children, the full effects of which might not be fully realized for some time. To deliver to students a desperately-needed sense of normalcy, House Republicans believe school districts throughout the state should fully reopen as soon as possible, provided appropriate safety measures are in place. Still, given the continuing uncertainty about COVID-19, it’s possible that distance learning will continue to be used by school districts.

This is your opportunity to share your experiences with virtual learning and ideas on how it can be improved. If this topic does not interest you, please feel free to share this information with anyone you think might benefit from it.

Click here if you’d like to testify virtually (via Zoom.) The deadline to register is Friday, March 5, at 3 p.m.

Click here for additional details, including how to testify via email.

At the start of the 2021 legislative session, my colleagues and I announced our intention to push for standards and metrics for virtual learning. Read more about that announcement here.

Be well, stay safe, and spread only hope.
Sincerely,

State Representative Joe Polletta

Please, never hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns relating to state government at Joe.Polletta@housegop.ct.gov or at (800) 842-1423.