A Look Inside Illinois Virtual Schools and Academy - IPA Talk

September 2, 2026  22 min

The Illinois Virtual Schools and Academy gives districts across the state a public online course option for students in kindergarten through grade 12. Jason Leahy talks with Dr. Michael Karner, Regional Superintendent of Schools in Lake County, about how the program was rebuilt in 2022 and what it offers school districts now.

Links
Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@IllinoisPrincipalsAssociation?sub_confirmation=1
Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLCjd05N0Zv_LkA_TaQS5w0ekHV_fHq9vN

CHAPTERS

0:00 Meet Dr. Michael Karner
2:35 Rebuilding Illinois Virtual School
6:19 Dual Credit and Hybrid Options
11:36 Teachers, Cost, and Support
17:07 Career Pathways Ahead