Online charter schools looking to open in Georgia

By DORIE TURNER

Associated Press Writer

Online schools are gaining popularity in Georgia. Five organizations have filed petitions with the state's Charter School Commission to open virtual charter schools in the state.

Georgia already has one, the Georgia Virtual Academy, but it only serves kindergarten through 8th grade. In just two years, the school has nearly 4,500 students enrolled and a waiting list.

Andrew Broy, head of the charter school division for the state Department of Education, says companies are trying to fill the void in virtual education for grades 9-12.

The commission will meet Monday to consider the applications. The panel received 34 applications for charter schools overall this year.

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On the Net:

Georgia Charter School Commission: www.doe.k12.ga.us/pea_charter.aspx?PageReq=PEACSCo mmission

Georgia Charter Schools Association: www.gacharters.org