Abstract: This paper is an examination of the current state of blended and online learning throughout the K-12 world in the United States. The analysis is predicated upon the potential of electronically-mediated learning (e-learning) to effectively prepare students for the demands of 21st century citizenship through the affordances of such learning environments, which in theory, support the growth of critical thinking and a personalized educational experience. Findings include three themes: a call for clarity of what is encompassed within each modality, a lack of large-scale data for informing decision making and practice, and a glaring need for professional development beyond training on any isolated skill or understanding.