The perfect teacher-student ratio in virtual schools

Is it 1:50?

Or, 1:25?

Or, 1:30?

My belief is the perfect teacher-student ratio is not a number but rather a person.

For one teacher, 30 students may be enough. For another, it may be 50 or 60.

Perhaps if we looked at it differently we could determine the best number of students for each teacher instead of trying to arbitrarily assign some average number across the board. Assign the number of students based on the ability of the teacher to build relationships with them instead of defining a number based on the industry.

Less students does not mean less of a teacher. More students does not mean a better teacher. If we are going to work to find the right-fit students, we need also to work to find the right-fit number for each teacher to shine, to excel, to prosper. and to impact the students under his/her care.

Sure, it would require additional thought related to compensation. But, it would be worth the investment.

houston@figment-consulting.com

Virtual schools: Do you know why your parents are leaving?

Do you know what question is most asked of Cast Members at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom?

Where is the nearest restroom? -- Nope.

Where is Mickey Mouse? -- Nope.

What time does the park close? -- Nope.

The question most asked of Magic Kingdom Cast Members is "What time does the 3 o'clock parade start?"

However, the response that Cast Members are trained to give is directed toward the real question being asked. Because, in reality, parents are not asking what time the 3 o'clock parade starts. So, the response is centered on the real question which is -- What time will the parade be where I am now?

Cast Members are trained to answer that question, and they go even further by recommending a great place to be nearby in order to see the parade.

Attrition rates are high and retention rates are low at virtual schools and many of them conduct exit interviews to try and obtain the reasons behind the departure. However, what they fail to comprehend is that there are answers behind the answers given by the families.

If you believe families are leaving your school due to "lack of socialization" then you are focused on the start time of the 3 o'clock parade. If you believe they are leaving because your school is "too rigorous" then you are focused on the start time of the 3 o'clock parade.

Instead there are reasons that go deeper as to why parents are leaving your school. Once you recognize that, then you can begin to comprehend them. Once you comprehend them, then you can understand them. Once you understand them, then and only then will you be able to craft solutions -- solutions that focus on the real issues.

houston@figment-consulting.com