Proposal to Cut Funding for Public Virtual Schools is Shortsighted

By Ann Robinett, Arizona Republic (Opinion)

6/1/08

In our 21st-century economy, work is done around the clock. The numbers of workers who telecommute are growing daily. Time and distance are less relevant today than ever before. What's most important is progress. The same can be applied to public education.

Since 1999, Arizona has embraced public virtual schools. These public schools are open 24/7, teaching Arizona kids anytime, anywhere, any place and continue to prove a lifesaver for many children.

But now, Arizona leaders are considering a proposal to arbitrarily cut funding for my children's public virtual school. The proposed cuts are deep and put a significant risk to the quality programs I and other Arizona parents have come to rely on for their children.