Students seeking courses not offered in their home school districts could sit in with another district that has them through a consortium of six suburban school districts being considered by their school boards.
Starting in the 2012-13 school year, the Regional Opportunity Initiative will allow the Quaker Valley, Moon Area, West Allegheny, Chartiers Valley, Mt. Lebanon, Upper St. Clair and South Fayette districts to share specialized or advanced courses online and cross-enroll students from other participating districts.
Several of the consortium's boards are awaiting a vote on whether to formally join the initiative, which is being touted as a means of expanding course offerings at a minimal cost.
"The goal is to provide students with opportunities beyond the walls of their home district and allow them to personalize their education to meet their individual needs," said Kara Droney, director of communications and strategic partnerships at Chartiers Valley.
"At a time when budgets are tight, the Regional Opportunity Initiative offers a cost-effective way to expand choice for students across Allegheny County."
Districts would pay tuition of about $300 per course per semester for each student enrolled in another district's school, and students would be responsible for their own transportation if it's necessary. It would be up to each district to decide whether to pass the tuition cost on to parents.
"These courses may be taught synchronously using technology, or, in some cases, students may actually travel to the site of the district offering the course," Quaker Valley spokeswoman Martha Smith said.
As school districts cut costs while still figuring out ways to increase educational offerings, Quaker Valley Superintendent Joseph Clapper said he is "excited" for what this partnership could do for students.
When Chartiers Valley introduces its Engineering Academy next year, students in the other participating districts might be interested in enrolling in some of the engineering classes if there are open seats, Droney said. Moon Area School District, which is scheduled to vote on joining the initiative Monday, could offer courses like TV production and digital animation, said spokeswoman Megan Edwards.
"Students benefit because of the expanded options available, and districts benefit because great programs and courses remain viable. It is the optimal way to personalize each student's education," Clapper said.
Clapper said the program is a way to "maintain great programs in terrific schools."
Upper St. Clair Superintendent Patrick O'Toole said he would present the initiative to his board May 14 for a potential vote May 21. The setup costs for sharing courses online and cross-enrolling students would be minimal, and he hoped the tuition costs would break even.
