Despite not reopening public schools, most states restrict students' virtual schooling options

With many states continuing to struggle with COVID-19 cases, governments and school districts are increasingly leaning into full-time online and hybrid models to start the school year. While states and traditional public school districts scramble to prepare staff and students for online learning, many families are searching for alternatives.

Some parents need their kids in brick-and-mortar schools and are looking at charter and private schools. Others, after having bad experiences with their public schools struggling to transition to online learning last spring, are seeking better online options.