The 3% Cap: What It is and How Stellar Pines Supports You
For many Oregon families, the idea of choosing a virtual school feels both exciting and overwhelming. At Stellar Pines, we know parents want the best educational environment for their children — one that provides flexibility, safety, and quality learning. But when families start researching options in Oregon, one rule often causes concern: the 3% cap.
On the surface, this rule sounds like a big barrier. But in reality, it doesn’t have to be. We’re here to walk with you through the process, explain what the 3% cap really means, and help you feel confident about your child’s enrollment options.
What Is the 3% Cap?
In Oregon, state law includes something called the 3% cap. Here’s what it means in simple terms:
Each school district has a certain number of students.
Once 3% of that district’s student population has enrolled in out-of-district virtual public charter schools, the district may limit additional transfers.
Parents must send their school district a letter of intent before they enroll, so the school district can approve or deny the change of enrollment based on the 3% cap.
This rule is meant to protect district funding, since state education dollars follow the student. However, it can cause confusion for parents who are looking at statewide online schools like Stellar Pines.
How the 3% Cap Works in Practice
To make it less abstract, here’s what typically happens:
Families send a letter of intent to their school district.
If fewer than 3% of students in your district are already enrolled in out-of-district virtual charter schools, your application to Stellar Pines can move forward without issue.
If your district is at or above the 3% threshold, they may deny the transfer. But that doesn’t end the process. Families have 10 days to appeal the decision through the state, and many are successful.
Directions to appeal the decision are included in the denial email.
We know each district handles this differently. Some have never come close to the 3% mark, while others monitor it closely and may communicate limits early. That’s why having a school like Stellar Pines in your corner matters, to make sure you understand your options.
It Sounds More Intimidating Than It Really Is
When families first hear about the 3% cap, it’s natural to think: What if my child isn’t allowed to enroll? What if we miss our chance?
Here’s the good news:
The cap applies per district. That means only families in certain districts are affected — many districts never hit the 3% threshold.
It’s not an automatic “no.” Even if your district is over the cap, there are ways to appeal, and families are often still able to enroll in the virtual school that’s right for them.
We guide you through it. At Stellar Pines, we don’t leave families to figure it out alone. Our enrollment team is ready to answer questions every step of the way.
We have open enrollment throughout the school year. Even if it takes a moment to navigate this hurdle, it won’t be at the cost of your child’s education.
So while the 3% cap may sound like a brick wall, in practice it’s often just a small speed bump, and one you don’t have to navigate by yourself.
FAQ: Letter of Intent
Q: What does a Letter of Intent look like? What does it need to include?
A: Here is a sample Letter of Intent. Feel free to copy and paste as a template for your use!
Subject: Intent to Enroll in Virtual Public Charter School – [Student Name]
Dear [Superintendent/Enrollment Office],
I am submitting this email as my written notice of intent to enroll my child in a virtual public charter school that is not sponsored by our resident district, in accordance with ORS 338.125.
Student Information:
Student Name: [Full Name]
Date of Birth: [MM/DD/YYYY]
Current Grade Level: [Grade]
Resident School District: [District Name]
Intended Virtual Public Charter School: [Preferably Stellar Pines Virtual School]
[Here, specify why you would like to enroll at a different school]
Please confirm receipt of this notice and provide the district’s response regarding approval or denial within the required timeline.
If you need any additional information, I am happy to provide it.
Thank you.
Best regards,
[Parent/Guardian Name]
[Phone Number]
Q: Who do I send it to?
A: Your school district! There should be a contact email on your school district’s website. Having trouble finding it? No worries! Check out the Oregon School Directory, which contains the contact information for school districts statewide. Locate your county, then school district, and you’ll find the correct email address there.
Q: Can I enroll at Stellar Pines while we’re waiting for approval?
A: You can start the enrollment process. However, your child won’t be an official student until we receive the approval, so submit your letter of intent as soon as possible!
How Stellar Pines Supports Families
Our mission goes beyond high-quality online education; we see ourselves as partners with our families, and offer support accordingly. We’ll provide:
Clear guidance from the start. When you contact us, we’ll explain how the cap works in your district and what steps to take next.
Ongoing communication. If questions come up, you’ll always know who to reach out to. You won’t be left waiting or guessing.
Help with paperwork. Emails and applications, letters and appeals can all feel overwhelming. But our team is here to make sure you have what you need.
A supportive community. Even in a virtual setting, you’ll find connection — not just for students, but for parents too.
By choosing Stellar Pines, you’re choosing a school that understands Oregon’s system and knows how to help families navigate it with confidence.
Looking Beyond the Cap
The conversation about the 3% rule in Oregon is ongoing. Many families and educators believe it’s time to re-examine the policy to reflect today’s reality that online school is no longer an unusual choice, but a mainstream one.
While policymakers debate, our focus at Stellar Pines is simple: supporting the families in front of us right now. That means making sure the cap doesn’t stop you from accessing the quality virtual education your child deserves.
If you’ve been researching online school options in Oregon and came across the 3% cap, don’t let it discourage you. Yes, it exists. Yes, it can create an extra step in the process. But with the right guidance, it doesn’t have to stand in your way.
At Stellar Pines Virtual School, we’re here to walk with you through the details, simplify the steps, and make sure your child has access to the flexible, personalized education they need.
Ready to learn more? Reach out today, and let’s take the first step together.
