Virtual School Legislation

House Bill 583

HB583, sponsored by Delegates Joe Vogel and April Miller, will ensure that students in Maryland have access to a public virtual school no matter what jurisdiction they live in. We are actively working with legislators and other groups to move it through the legislative process. Follow progress here: https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/hb0583?ys=2025RS
HB583 builds a framework that empowers local school systems to choose how to implement a virtual school for students in their districts while guaranteeing that those students are provided access to a virtual school. This approach negates need for extra funding from the state, maintains autonomy for local school boards, and most importantly ensures that every child has access to an education.

First Reading in House Ways and Means Committee

"We support House Bill 583, which would require each county board of education to establish a virtual school or collaborate with neighboring counties to offer one. This bill aligns with Free State PTA’s core principles of promoting safe, supportive learning environments and ensuring equitable access to educational opportunities for all students"



Favorable Testimonials

"On behalf of the pediatric nurse practitioners (PNPs) and fellow pediatric-focused advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) of the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (NAPNAP) Chesapeake Chapter, we are writing to express our support of HB583 Primary and Secondary Education - Virtual Schools – Alterations. By requiring each county board to establish a virtual school, the bill ensures that no child is left behind due to geographic, health, or socio-economic barriers."
"Without virtual schooling, it feels like I’m being punished for something I can’t control. I want to learn, I want to be part of a school, but my medical conditions make that impossible. Virtual schooling was a way for me to get a good education without worrying about my health." 
"I have watched all three of my neurodivergent children fall through the cracks of the traditional classroom. Instead of gaining an education, they have been traumatized and scarred. But then came virtual school and everything changed. "
"The virtual school option has allowed our daughter to thrive, learn and flourish academically while staying healthy. It is imperative that you provide ALL children the opportunity to attend virtual school. "
"I am writing to express my strong support for legislative bill HB583, which proposes requiring every county to provide a virtual education option for elementary, middle, and high school students. As a parent who has three children flourishing in this setting, I believe this bill addresses several pressing issues in our education system and provides invaluable opportunities for students facing unique challenges."
"Thank you for the opportunity to testify in support of HB 583, a bill that would ensure Maryland families have access to high-quality virtual schooling options, no matter where they live. I submit this testimony today as a parent, an educator, and friend of hundreds of parents who live in Maryland, to share the reality faced by thousands of Maryland students who are being left behind because they do not have access to an education that meets their needs."
"Virtual synchronous education provides the same high-quality educational experiences as traditional schools. Just like in physical classrooms, teachers are certified, the curriculum meets state and national standards, promotes academic growth, critical thinking, and social-emotional development. Please support HB 583."
"I urge decision-makers to recognize the critical role virtual synchronous learning plays in educational equity and to ensure that it remains an accessible option for all K-12 students in Maryland. Our children deserve a future where education meets them where they are, providing the flexibility, engagement, and support necessary for their success."
"Online school was an absolute game changer for me"
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