---

While Chisago Lakes Area School District has previously considered offering a remote learning option — harkening back to the era of stay at home learning during Covid-19 —  it took some recent state educational licensing revisions to clear the way.  

The school board last week voted unanimously to develop an online course offering for grades 9-12 that is called Wildcat Academy.  It will be offered starting fall 2025. Online coursework affiliated through public school districts is tuition free in Minnesota.

The enrollment is being done by a random electronic lottery, with applications available as of April 15 on the Wildcat Academy website.  See wa.isd2144.org for more information on the lottery process.

The deadline to get your student name, age and grade entered into the random drawing is May 2.  By the end of May the roll should be finalized and selected students’ families will be notified directly.

Superintendent Brian Dietz noted at the school board meeting that recent surveys by the district have unearthed good support for an online education option.  

Director of Teacher and Learning Sarah Schmidt added that of 357 participants in the surveying, 87 families said they would be interested in an online choice.

The district can expect the program to cost about $175,000 but state per pupil funding that follows public school attendees into the  program they are using, will be sufficient to cover expenses.  The funding for 20 students, for example, would generate $200,000.

The school board also voted to authorize the hire of a Wildcat Academy program coordinator to provide academic oversight and expenditures to acquire the digital curriculum needed.

Dietz noted the district enrollment numbers might rebound a little through Wildcat Academy  which will be a benefit as the high school has seen 40 students unenroll since 2019.  He is hoping they can be attracted back by Wildcat Academy.  In total Chisago Lakes has dipped by 220 or so in enrollment since 2020.

FYI

The North Branch Area Public School District has offered distance learning for about 15 years.  NB Distance Learning Academy is at 44 total enrolled in grades K-12.  According to administrative staff there are 32 students in  distance learning in grades 6-12.

---