Are Georgia taxpayers getting their money's worth from online schools? In the 2015 fiscal year, Georgia Cyber Academy — with a statewide enrollment of 13,000 — reported receiving $82 million in state and federal funding.

The more relevant question for parents is: Is virtual learning a good fit for my child?

Online classes in Georgia originally were designed to accommodate ambitious students in rural areas who lacked options for AP or accelerated classes. Now, many struggling students are flocking to virtual schools.

But students in online courses, unless self-directed and independent, will need motivated parents who will ensure they sit down every day at their computers, attend their classes and get their work done. Some parents don’t understand that critical role.

To read more, go to the AJC Get Schooled blog.

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Superintendent Bryan Johnson listens to a speaker during an Atlanta School Board meeting in Atlanta on Wednesday, November 5, 2025. APS held its first vote on school consolidation plans. (Abbey Cutrer / AJC)

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