Create a Distance Learning Proxy Class

Updated 11/11/25

Note: This article is *not* for online instruction that happens real-time, while at a distance using technology tools such as Zoom, FaceTime, etc. You'll find that here: Create an Online Learning Class

This article tells how to create a new class to track distance learning (DL) students and their proxy hours. ("Proxy hours" refers to the time students spend working independently to complete DL lessons.)

• Each DL curriculum platform needs its own proxy hours class.
• Do not mix proxy hours and online instruction time in the same class.

The class setup is nearly the same as for an in-person class. To set up a class for DL proxy hours, complete the Add Class form as usual, paying attention to these areas:

1. Class Name - best practice is to include the name of the DL curriculum and the word "proxy." 
2. Attendance Format - to enter up to 30 proxy hours in chunks/blocks of time*, select "lab"
3. Student Hour Type must say Distance Learning. Only student proxy hours should be marked with an Hour Type of distance learning. 
4. Distance Learning Program - select the name of the DL curriculum from the menu.
   Note 1: When a Student Hour Type of "Distance Learning" is selected, you must choose an option from the Distance Learning Program menu. 
   Note 2: Expired DL platforms may be selected up to 2 months after the platform expires.
5. Class Interaction - choose Asynchronous Distance from the menu options

*The state allows DL hours ONLY to be recorded on a single calendar day even when hours were earned over the course of several days.

Special instructions for a statewide online class
On the Classes > Summary setup screen, Additional State Content section, only check Career-Focused Open Statewide if your program is actually hosting the statewide class.

ABE Hotline

Classes with a Student Hour Type of Distance Learning will not appear on the ABE Hotline.

Other resources

• For definitions of terms on this screen, see: Class Setup Field Definitions
• To learn how to enter DL attendance hours, see this article: Add Distance Learning Hours