Designing Excellence in K-12 Online Learning: A Practical Guide for School Leaders

Transform your K-12 online learning program into a model of innovation and excellence with Designing Excellence in K-12 Online Learning. Authored by Dr. Christopher Harrington–one of the nation’s foremost experts on virtual education–this book distills over 30 years of experience and leadership into a clear, actionable roadmap for school leaders. Inside, Dr. Harrington reveals the essential strategies behind building and sustaining a high-quality virtual program. From aligning your mission and governance structures to delivering inclusive instruction and equitable access, each chapter offers concrete examples and proven practices grounded in the newly revised National Standards for Quality Online Programs. Whether you’re just beginning to explore online education or seeking to refine an established program, you’ll find the insights you need to move confidently from planning to execution. Key Features: Mission and Governance – Discover how a well-defined mission and transparent oversight can transform your online program’s culture and outcomes. Strategic Planning and Evaluation – Learn to create flexible plans that adapt to student needs, support innovative resource allocation, and drive continuous improvement. Curriculum and Instruction – Design engaging courses that align with academic standards and cater to diverse learning styles, ensuring every student thrives. Equity and Access – Explore practical solutions for bridging technology gaps, providing multilingual support, and fostering an inclusive learning environment. Stakeholder Engagement – Gain proven methods for supporting instructional staff, connecting with families, and strengthening the bonds of a community that supports student success. Drawing on his extensive background as a school leader, professor, consultant, and co-chair for revising the National Standards for Quality Online Programs, Dr. Harrington combines authoritative research with hands-on experience to guide readers through the complexities of virtual education. Designing Excellence in K-12 Online Learning is an indispensable resource for superintendents, principals, online learning directors, and any educator committed to raising the bar for online instruction. Take the next step in creating an online learning program that empowers every student, supports every educator, and makes a lasting impact on your school community.