Issue 45

How can virtual schools move beyond pacing and completions to identify and address learning gaps?

Desire’ Mosser
Pasco eSchool

Virtual learning partnerships often struggle when schools view virtual courses as outsourced instruction rather than an integrated instructional strategy. In these transactional models, responsibilities are unclear, communication is inconsistent, and accountability gapsLike many virtual schools, our initial focus centered on student pacing, course completion, and final grades. These measures provided valuable insight into student success and helped ensure students remained on track toward completing their courses within the recommended time frame. However, they did not always reveal whether students had mastered specific standards or where learning gaps existed. As accountability measures evolved within our district, we recognized the need to look beyond completion data and develop a deeper understanding of student learning.emerge, leaving students without the coordinated support they need. Leadership plays a critical role in disrupting this pattern by reframing virtual learning as a shared endeavor that requires intentional structures, active engagement, and joint ownership.

Spark! Teacher Edition