(1) "Educational service provider" means a third-party entity contracted by an LEA to provide:
(a) courses or instructional services that:
(i) generate average daily membership for the LEA; or
(ii) count toward graduation requirements; or
(b) curriculum, grading services, or educator services for courses described in Subsection (1)(a).
(2) "Learner validated program" means an educational program specifically designed for competency-based or self-paced learning where:
(a) student participation is measured by demonstrated academic progress and completion of learning objectives, rather than by attendance at scheduled instructional periods; and
(b) the LEA has established a written policy that:
(i) defines:
(A) continuing enrollment measurement requirements;
(B) standards for demonstrating academic progress;
(C) methods for calculating equivalent instructional hours; and
(D) procedures for ensuring equivalent educational rigor and support as provided in attendance validated programs; and
(ii) meets any additional criteria the state board requires.
(3) "Online course" means a course delivered primarily through digital or internet-based platforms where instruction occurs outside a traditional classroom setting.
(4) "Teacher of record" means a licensed educator employed by the LEA who:
(a) has direct responsibility for a student's educational progress;
(b) maintains oversight of curriculum quality and alignment with state standards; and
(c) documents the student's academic participation and progress.