BEFORE THE BOARD OF PUBLIC EDUCATION

                                                OF THE STATE OF MONTANA

 

In the matter of the amendment of ARM 10.55.907 relating to distance learning

) )

NOTICE OF AMENDMENT

TO: All Concerned Persons

 

1. On July 31, 2008 the Board of Public Education published MAR Notice No. 10-57-247 pertaining to the public hearing on the proposed amendment of the above-stated rule at page 1525 of the 2008 Montana Administrative Register, Issue Number 14.

 

2. The board has amended the above-stated rule as proposed.

 

3. The board has thoroughly considered the comments and testimony received. A summary of the comments received and the department's responses are as follows:

 

COMMENT #1: Mr. Darrell Rud, SAM, thanked the board and the Distance Learning Task Force for their willingness to listen to constructive criticism and make amendments to provide more flexibility in the rule.

 

RESPONSE #1: The Board of Public Education appreciates the support from Mr. Rud.

 

COMMENT #2: Mr. Bob Vogel, MTSBA, commented that the rule is more flexible as amended and appreciates the direction of the board to support the academic enhancement of Montana students.

 

RESPONSE #2: The Board of Public Education appreciates the support from Mr. Vogel.

 

COMMENT #3: Dr. Bruce Messinger, Superintendent of Helena Public Schools and Chair of the E-Learning Consortium, appreciates the flexibility of the rule as amended. He stated it is important for Montana students to have the opportunity to work with highly qualified educators well versed in their area of expertise. Distance learning is rapidly changing and he is pleased that the board is willing to review this rule as needed.

 

RESPONSE #3: The Board of Public Education appreciates the comments from Dr. Messinger.

 

COMMENT #4: Dr. Thomas Gibson, OCHE, stated that the delivery methods are changing and evolving and appreciates the Board of Public Education's review of the distance learning rules to meet the needs of the students.

 

RESPONSE #4: The Board of Public Education appreciates the comments from Dr. Gibson.

 

COMMENT #5: Mr. Bruce Wallace of Vision Net, came to the hearing to observe the direction of the Board of Public Education in connection with distance learning and to maintain an involvement and awareness of the board's position on this issue.

 

RESPONSE #5: The Board of Public Education appreciates the comments from Mr. Wallace.

 

/s/ Steve Meloy                                              /s/ Patty Myers

Steve Meloy                                                   Patty Myers, Chairperson

Rule Reviewer                                               Board of Public Education

 

Certified to the Secretary of State September 15, 2008.