Could online programming transform students' snow days? One state is going to put it to the test. 

This winter, districts in Pennsylvania will take advantage of an online program that will offer schools the ability to remain in session, even during snow days, according to an article in the Pittsburgh Business Times.

The program, Flexible Instructional Days, offers a "non-traditional educational method on regularly scheduled school days in which circumstances, such as inclement weather, prevent school from being held."

"As we continue to advance through the 21st century, our education system is adapting to and actively using technology for the delivery of instruction and educational materials,” said Pennsylvania Acting Secretary of Education Carolyn Dumaresq. “The Flexible Instructional Days program offers schools the option to deliver instruction through the use of digital technology when students are prevented from physically being in the classroom.”

The state's Public School Code requires schools to offer "at least 180 days or 900 hours of instruction to students in first grade through sixth grade and at least 990 hours of instruction for grades seven through twelve." 

"In order for the Flexible Instructional Days to be considered a school day, schools must submit documentation to the Department of Education which includes a summary of their program that demonstrates the school has addressed the overall management of the program, curriculum and instruction, and student and teacher access to technology and support," said the article. 

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Article by Kassondra Granata, EducationWorld Contributor