Office of Online and Blended Learning

About Us

The Office of Online & Blended Learning (OBL) serves and supports online schools, programs, students, parents/guardians, authorizers, other related entities, and individuals related to K-12 Online & Blended Learning in Colorado. We are committed to providing information to all interested parties and stakeholders, as well as supporting the responsible growth of blended and online learning. The Office of Online & Blended Learning began duties October 1, 2007 under Senate Bill 215 legislation (§ 22-30.7-101-113, C.R.S.). Our purposes are:

• To support Online Schools, Programs, Students, Parents, Authorizers, and other entities related to Online Learning;
• To facilitate the certification of Multi-District Online Schools; 
• To support with quality implementation of online programs and online schools. 

News & Updates 

2023-24 Formal Variance Waiver

For the third year in a row, CDE will be providing districts and schools the opportunity to request a Variance Waiver to the posted guidance regarding blended learning and supplemental online courses for the 2023-24 school year. Information about the waiver is located on the Blended Learning Initiative (BLI) page: https://www.cde.state.co.us/onlinelearning/blendedlearninginitiative. Please contact BLI@cde.state.co.us with any questions about the waiver process.

Online Schools and Programs in Colorado

Colorado families seeking information about existing online schools and programs across the state or in their school district should refer to the Lists of Online Schools and Programs page: https://www.cde.state.co.us/onlinelearning/schools. In addition to each online school and online program listed, there is a frequently asked questions (FAQ) resource about the process. Families are encouraged to contact the schools and programs directly for further information.

2022 District and School Performance Frameworks

CDE's Office for Accountability and Continuous Improvement released the annual frameworks outlining performance ratings used for the State Board of Education and Colorado Department of Education to help struggling Colorado schools. Information about state accountability and the frameworks, including for online schools, are on the District and School Performance Frameworks page: https://www.cde.state.co.us/accountability/performanceframeworks.