Some 'disenfranchised by their location'
Electronic delivery seeks to correct an imbalance in opportunity, she said.
"There are students all across the state who are disenfranchised by their location. That's a travesty," Cundy said. "Location of the desk should have nothing to do with opportunities available to students."
Many small to midsized districts are attempting to offer their own AP classes as student interest dictates and resources allow. The new program becomes another factor to consider. In Arlington, 12 students signed up for AP English next fall, so the school will offer it in its own classroom. Five students wanted AP physics, so they'll take it through the online incentive program, Principal Rhonda Gross said.
West Central offers its own AP calculus, chemistry and English literature - all among the seven target courses - along with AP economics. The online option will expand the choices.
"I can see it helping 10 students a year at West Central that need that extra flexibility or opportunity," said counselor Kieron Murphy.
The National Math and Science Initiative will send the money from Dallas to the West River Foundation in Rapid City. The foundation subcontracts with Technology and Innovation in Education. Parry is director of TIE but will retire July 1 to become director of Learning Power. Several agencies will advise Learning Power.
The intent is for the Texas group to provide seed money the first four years.
"They're building the on-ramp so we can sustain the program long term," Parry said.
