Screenshot/Texas Senate
Expanded protections and support for virtual education programs across Texas has been greenlighted by Gov. Greg Abbott.
A bill strengthening the state’s framework of K-12 virtual learning — authored by State Sen. Paul Bettencourt, a Republican representing parts of Houston — was part of this legislative session’s first wave of bills recently signed into law by Abbott.
The new law, introduced as Senate Bill 569, carves out a section in Texas’ Education Code for online and hybrid instruction, “replacing a patchwork of outdated virtual learning laws with a clear structure,” according to a news release from Bettencourt.
The law adds several protections for families opting for online education, requiring parents and students to be informed about their school district’s virtual and hybrid courses. Additionally, full-time students’ requests to learn virtually either full-time or part-time can’t be denied unless costs are considered “too high” for schools, or the course isn’t aligned with a student’s graduation plan.
While crafting the bill, Bettencourt said recommendations from the Texas Commission on Virtual Education were considered. This bill was introduced last legislative session, and although it passed through the Senate, it died on the House floor.
“This legislation will successfully prevent Texas virtual schools from closing, ensuring tens of thousands of students can continue learning in an environment that works best for them and their families,” Bettencourt said. “By supporting virtual and hybrid learning models with strong accountability and transparency, this legislation empowers parents, supports teachers, and helps districts meet students where they are.”
More than 3,500 students were enrolled in the state’s Texas Virtual School Network this spring, according to the Texas Education Agency. That’s down a few hundred from the 2024 spring semester, when more than 4,200 students were enrolled.
Kyla Pickrell, the executive director of Texas Virtual Academy at Hallsville, said she is “incredibly grateful” for the legislation and what it means for students, especially for those who “face unique challenges that make traditional schooling difficult.”
“For them, virtual school isn’t just about academics, but also safety, stability, and the chance to succeed,” she added.
Under the new law, teachers and school staff are not allowed to “actively discourage a student” by “threat or intimidation” for enrolling in virtual or hybrid learning. Teachers also won’t be mandated to teach online courses without training or their consent.
The law also addresses attendance records. Districts and schools will receive the same amount of funding for every student whether they are physically in classrooms or taking online courses.
“This legislation offers a modern structure that empowers school districts to meet the needs of students, whether through access to virtual calculus, French language, hybrid CTE programs, dual credit offerings or flexible instruction for children in foster care,” state Rep. Keith Bell (R-Forney) said. “For many students and families, this is not only an essential choice—it’s an essential lifeline.
The state also has laid out its framework to review virtual campuses. The performances of students at online schools will be annually evaluated by the state.
Bettencourt said the bill will help expand education access for Texas students. He said he hopes the number of students learning online doubles by the 2028-29 school year.
“Whether it’s helping foster youth find success at Trinity Charter Schools, or giving students the flexibility to earn college credit while pursuing career training, SB 569 is proof that virtual learning regardless if it’s in a traditional classroom, online, or both — when done right — it changes kids’ lives!” Bettencourt said.