Hello, I am Tommy Bearden, the Distance Learning Consultant at Region 14 Education Service Center. Although I assist districts with any type of distance learning, I work primarily with Interactive Television, (ITV). I first got involved with ITV in the fall of 1997 when I was employed as Principal at Stamford High School. I was literally amazed at the technological capabilities and the unlimited potential for ITV in education.

I tell people that, “Distance Learning is limited only by our imaginations and our willingness to utilize the technology. Don’t let ‘our’ get in your way.” In the ESC 14 Distance Learning Department, “can’t” is not in our vocabulary. We are always looking for ideals and suggestions for utilization of the equipment. Call (325) 675-8668, email bearden@esc14.net, or better yet, contact me over the system if I can help you with your distance learning issues. You can reach me by video conference at 10.1.176.60 within Region 14 or 216.134.24.161 outside of Region 14.

Region 14 is a member of Texas Virtul School. TVS offers High School online courses. Courses, training and approximate cost are as follows:
On Line Web Based Courses
Is Online Learning For Me? An online introductory course for students; $25/student
High School Courses; regular term; $250-$350 per semester/student
High School Courses; summer school; $250-$350 per semester/student
Liaisonics Course (facilitator) $50
SAT Preparation; $37.00 per student
The Right Angle: A Parent Information Course; $25
Teacher Training Part I; $400
Teacher Training Part II; $400

NOTE: Students expressing an interest in taking an online course should be prescreened. The three most important student characteristics of a successful online student as identified by Texas Virtual School are:
1. Reads at or above grade level,
2. Has good time management skills,
3. Is motivated to succeed.

Texas Virtual School does not recommend student enrollment in an online course if they do not possess all of these characteristics.