The Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) is engaged in a Proof of Concept for a Virtual Learning Magnet (VLM) for Space Science and Mathematics with support from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). CCSSO’s strategic plan calls for setting the education context for a new century, and the Proof of Concept for the VLM supports this by exploring how states can bring together teachers and subject matter experts to support learners with targeted interests in areas of global importance. The VLM is designed to supplement, and not duplicate, the offerings of state-led virtual schools.

The Proof of Concept will engage a small number of students from 8 - 10 states and is focused on the study of introductory physics through the lens of space science and aeronautics research. Students will also have the opportunity to participate in an interdisciplinary independent study in cooperation with actual NASA missions. Based on what is learned during the Proof of Concept and the response of the states, CCSSO plans to expand the VLM for Space Science and Mathematics to offer learners from all states the opportunity to earn several credits toward a high school diploma. CCSSO envisions a network of VLMs as the concept expands to other areas of career and academic specialization.

The Virtual Learning Magnet design is largely student-directed. It includes strong elements of student choice as well as numerous options for how learning is demonstrated. All credits earned through the VLM will be performance-based.

Staff: Tom Welch (tomw@consultant.ccsso.org) and Linda Pittenger (lindap@ccsso.org)
For more information, email VLM@ccsso.org.