Dear Editor:

On behalf of Pennsylvania Virtual Charter School, which serves students from Lehighton Area School District, I must correct Superintendent Jonathan Cleaver's misleading statement that cyber charter schools are not tuition-free schools ("Cyber tuition law taxes area budgets," Oct. 10).Cyber charter schools such as PA Virtual receive a per-pupil allocation of public funds, often 30 percent less than a traditional public school after deductions are made by sending districts. Money paid toward cyber charter schools is money applied toward the education of children.PA Virtual is a public school. We do not charge our families any form of tuition. In fact we provide them with all of the necessary technology and equipment to receive a high-quality public school education. Our new model of public education allows students from their homes to attend a comprehensive public virtual school via a computer and the Internet.As a comprehensive public school, our students participate in a rigorous education implemented by state-certified and highly qualified administrators, teachers and student support staff.In addition to their academics, our students engage in a wealth of social and community activities across the state.The purpose of the Charter School Law and subsequent authorization of cyber charter schools was to make choices in public education available to Pennsylvania families and to encourage innovation in the design and delivery of educational services. Superintendent Cleaver proves just how well that model is working by highlighting that his district has seen a return of students now that it offers its own cyber option.Cyber charter schools have the flexibility to accommodate students with diverse needs or outside obligations, as well as develop individualized instructional practices. PA Virtual is proud to be at the forefront in the advancement of teaching and learning in this new paradigm of K-12 public education.As long as cyber charter schools present positive alternatives to traditional K-12 public educational environments, PA Virtual will continue to support and offer tuition-free public schooling focused on academic achievement and personal success for K-12 students who desire and or need a different type of public school option.Sincerely,Dr. Joanne Barnett, CEOPennsylvania Virtual Charter School