The end of August marked the start of the inaugural school year for students and staff at Connections Academy at Springs, a new tuition-free online public charter school program.
Across the California counties of San Diego, Imperial, Inyo, Kern, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino, enrolled students in grades kindergarten though 10 logged on for their first week at the new virtual school. The school operates in partnership with Springs Charter Schools, a network of public charter schools in Southern California, and offers families the nationally recognized Connections Academy program and award-winning curriculum.
Connections Academy at Springs combines California-certified teachers, a rigorous, standards-aligned curriculum, technology tools and social engagement to create a student-focused online learning experience. The online public charter school program provides students access to core classes and engaging electives, as well as virtual clubs, field trips, events and activities throughout the year. The flexible schedule also allows students time to play sports, explore art, volunteer or pursue their passions outside of the virtual classroom.
Connections Academy at Springs also celebrated its newly appointed school leader, Laurie Campbell, who officially assumed the role on June 4.
With more than 20 years of experience in school administration, Campbell brings a track record of enhancing educational experiences and outcomes for students. Prior to joining Connections Academy at Springs, Campbell served as principal of a charter school program in California for independent study and virtual school students.
“We are thrilled to kick off Connections Academy at Springs’ first academic year and extend a warm welcome to all our students embarking on this innovative educational journey,” Campbell said. “Our commitment is to provide a flexible, engaging, and high-quality learning environment that prepares our students to thrive both academically and in the modern world.
“Our program, designed by online education experts, offers a level of personalization in the curriculum not found in traditional brick-and-mortar schools,” she said. “It is truly a unique option that will benefit families across California, and we look forward to our first year serving them.”
Connections Academy at Springs will serve a maximum of 500 students in grades K-10 during its first year and expand each year to serve additional grades and students. As a public school program, there are no fees or tuition to attend Connections Academy at Springs, and all students will be required to meet the same academic standards and take the same assessments as traditional public school students.
Families interested in learning more about the Connections Academy at Springs’ flexible virtual learning approach are encouraged to attend an online information session to learn more, ask questions and discover if virtual school is the right fit for their student. For more information about Connections Academy at Springs, visit connectionsacademy.com/california-springs-online-school or call 951-252-8800.
Nonprofit groups, public agencies, local businesses and organizations of varying interests are welcome to share their news by submitting press releases for publication. Send yours to news[at]northcoastcurrent.com. Submissions are edited for news style and brevity.
