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.
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:
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 can appeal the decision through the state, and many are successful.
We also know each district handles this differently. Some have never come close to the 3% mark. 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.
What Parents Should Know
If you’re considering Stellar Pines for your child’s education, there are a few reassuring points to keep in mind.
You’re not alone. We work with families across Oregon who had questions about the cap. We’ll help guide you through each step.
Options exist. Even if your district has reached the 3% cap, there are processes in place to help families pursue enrollment. Appeals are possible, and we can support you through them.
Transparency matters. We believe parents should know up front if the 3% cap might affect them. That’s why we’re open about what the rule means and how to work through it.
Your child’s education comes first. Policies like the 3% cap can seem complicated, but at the end of the day, our priority is making sure students learn in the environment where they can thrive.
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.
Help with paperwork. Applications and appeals can feel overwhelming, but our team is here to make sure you have what you need.
Ongoing communication. If questions come up, you’ll always know who to reach out to. You won’t be left waiting or guessing.
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.
