Online learning's a force, by George!

The force is with Idaho Digital Learning Academy.

That's George Lucas's force, the one with light sabers and Jedi Mind Tricks.

IDLA is being featured by Edutopia, a multi-media program presented

through the George Lucas Educational Foundation, a nonprofit created

in 1991 by the filmmaker behind "Star Wars" and Indiana Jones.

The national organization highlights innovative education through

online videos and television segments which are syndicated nationwide,

including in Idaho.

In its most recent series, Edutopia shines the spotlight on IDLA

classes being used by rural students at Notus High School and

Centerpoint Alternative School, in Caldwell.  It profiles two IDLA

principals, and an IDLA teacher.

“Our foundation documents and disseminates the most exciting

classrooms where these innovations are taking place,” Lucas said, in a

press release. “By shining the spotlight on these inspiring teachers

and students, we hope others will consider how their work can promote

change in their own schools.”

Edutopia producers made two trips to the Treasure Valley and spent

three days shooting video for its stories on online learning.

IDLA was formed by lawmakers in 2002.  The state-sponsored online

school serves students in 100 percent of Idaho school districts.

The videos can currently be seen on www.edutopia.org. - Maureen Dolan