Electronic Classroom of Tomorrow

The Electronic Classroom of Tomorrow (ECOT) was a nonprofit educational institution designated as a 501(c)(3) organization. It operated as a community/charter school, offering an online learning environment for students across Ohio.

Background

ECOT was founded in 2000 by William "Bill" Lager, with its operations initially based on a charter granted by the Lucas County Educational Service Center in Toledo, Ohio. The school was managed by Lager's company, Altair Learning Management. ECOT aimed to provide a flexible online educational platform, allowing students to learn from home and participate in live sessions or independent activities.

Structure and Operations

ECOT was structured into four distinct schools: Elementary School for grades K-3, Junior High for grades 4-6, Middle School for grades 7-8, and High School for grades 9-12. Unlike traditional brick-and-mortar schools, students at ECOT were not required to adhere to a fixed schedule but were expected to complete at least 25 hours of educational activities per week. The school used state-provided or student-owned computers for coursework.

Controversies and Closure

ECOT faced significant controversy due to allegations of misreporting student attendance figures. In 2015, the Ohio Department of Education found discrepancies in the school's enrollment claims, leading to a dispute over state funding. In 2016, the state demanded repayment of approximately $80 million, asserting that ECOT had overstated its enrollment numbers. Despite the school's protests, it was eventually forced to close on January 18, 2018, by its sponsor, the Educational Service Center of Lake Erie West. Following its closure, the Auditor of State ordered ECOT to repay over $117 million in disputed funds in June 2022.

Financial Overview

ECOT received substantial contributions, primarily from government funds, with minimal income from other sources. Its financial reports often highlighted high liabilities and significant operational losses. The financial challenges and disputes with state authorities significantly impacted the school's viability and led to its eventual closure.

Impact and Legacy

ECOT's collapse had considerable repercussions across Ohio's educational landscape. Thousands of students were left without an educational institution, and the abrupt closure caused widespread disruption. The incident also highlighted challenges in regulating online education and issues of accountability within the e-school sector.

Graduates and Recognition

Prior to its closure, ECOT was notable for having large graduating classes, often with more than 2,500 graduates annually. The school's graduation ceremonies were held at prominent venues like the Jerome Schottenstein Center due to the high numbers of graduating students. Despite its achievements in size and growth, ECOT struggled with thematic issues such as low on-time graduation rates and allegations of financial mismanagement.

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electronic_Classroom_of_Tomorrow [2] https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/341922362 [3] https://www.edweek.org/policy-politics/ecot-fallout-missing-students-returned-donations-criminal-accusations/2018/07 [4] https://ohioauditor.gov/auditsearch/Reports/2018/Electronic_Classroom_of_Tomorrow_17-Franklin_Disclaimer.pdf [5] https://www.schoolceo.com/a/ecot-how-americas-largest-cyber-school-collapsed-overnight/