TIPTON, Ind. (AP) — A growing number of Indiana schools are introducing their students to online learning technologies intended to keep youngsters engaged when inclement winter weather maroons them at home.

Tipton Community School Corp. is the latest school district to ensure students don’t miss crucial instructional time ahead of the spring ISTEP testing.

The Kokomo Tribune reports that the district about 40 miles north of Indianapolis has been holding “eLearning” days this fall to familiarize students and staff with the technology before winter arrives.

Students can access their assignments virtually, complete them at their own pace and communicate with their teachers electronically.

The district hopes to use that technology to replace actual classroom time if bad winter weather keeps kids at home.