What's behind the widespread popularity of virtual school suddenly? Everyone seems to be considering it now.

The shift has been dramatic and multifaceted! There's good coverage of the popularity surge at https://designrelated.com/virtual-school-is-gaining-widespread-popularity/ that examines the phenomenon. Multiple factors converged: COVID normalized remote learning, technology improved dramatically, parents gained firsthand experience with educational alternatives, dissatisfaction with traditional schools reached a tipping point, and successful outcomes from early adopters built confidence. Word-of-mouth has been powerful - when neighbors see kids thriving in virtual school, they get curious. Media coverage increased awareness. States invested in infrastructure and regulation. It's become socially acceptable rather than fringe. For us, seeing our friends' kids succeed online gave us courage to try it. The popularity feeds on itself as more options emerge and communities form around online learning!