Virtual learning will help students, Hawk says
Virtual learning will help students, Hawk says

By Lesley Hughes
News Editor
lhughes@erwinrecord.net

State Rep. David Hawk recently passed legislation that will encourage the expansion of technology in state school systems. The Virtual Education Program will give students more opportunities to learn with the assistance of technology.

The program will help open up coursework not currently available to students through a virtual-learning environment.

"The purpose of this legislation is to assure a consistent quality education for Tennessee students," stated Hawk. "It is imperative that as lawmakers we do everything we can to prepare our youngest citizens for a future that is guaranteed to be surrounded by technology."

The Virtual Education Program will encourage local school systems to provide various courses online. Participation in the program is voluntary and local discretion will be used to determine which courses will be offered in the virtual classroom. The legislation is designed to not only offer coursework in a new way but also open up more opportunities for learning with greater variety in coursework.

"I'm honored to be able to assist our local schools by expanding and exploring options for virtual computer learning," Hawk said. "Our students will greatly benefit from this technology, and the information will assist them with skills they can take to the workplace, college, or whatever path they choose."

Hawk is serving his third term in the legislature. He resides in Greeneville, where he represents the citizens of 5th district, which includes Unicoi County.