Full-time online school students from across Oregon recognized for reaching an important academic milestone
SCIO, Ore., June 16, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Nearly 100 graduating seniors across the state recently received their high school diplomas as members of Willamette Connections Academy's Class of 2023. The graduates were honored during the tuition-free online public school's annual commencement ceremony on June 10 in Scio. These graduates experienced all the time-honored pomp and circumstance including walking across the stage at Scio High School's stadium, turning their tassels and throwing their caps in the air in front of family and friends.
"Even though we are a non-traditional public school, Willamette Connections Academy feels it's very important to celebrate this important milestone with a traditional commencement ceremony," said Heather Engelhardt, Willamette Connections Academy principal. "It's fulfilling to know we are a part of their journey and can't wait to see what these graduates do next."
The school currently supports over 1,000 students throughout Oregon in grades K-12 with a high-quality curriculum taught by state-certified teachers specially trained to bring their skills and personality to the virtual classroom.
"The seniors in the Class of 2023 have met many challenges over the last few years with incredible resilience and grace," said Willamette Connections Academy School Leader Chris Long. "I'm proud that these students chose the best path for their learning needs and it's rewarding to see all their hard work pay off enabling them to celebrate this academic milestone."
Willamette Connections Academy provides students with a high-quality rewarding education experience, offering the support they need for today while helping them develop the skills necessary to be successful in the future.
Class of 2023 Valedictorian Arowyn Crossley says Willamette Connections allowed them to work, pursue a variety of hobbies, and still get a great education. Arowyn recommends the school to other families. "I found the ability to work at my own pace made me so much happier and helped me do so much better academically, it's something that really saved my high school experience."
Willamette Connections Academy's graduates have a variety of post-graduation plans. Half plan to enroll in a two or four-year college, 6 percent are entering the workforce while others plan to join the military, attend vocational training, or pursue additional opportunities.
Enrollment is currently underway for Willamette Connections Academy's 2023-2024 school year. Families are encouraged to attend a free online information session to learn more, ask questions and discover if virtual education is the right fit for their student. For more information about Willamette Connections Academy or to begin the enrollment process, please visit http://www.WillametteConnectionsAcademy.com or call 1-800-382-6010.
About Willamette Connections Academy
Willamette Connections Academy (WillCA) is a unique, tuition-free, online public school for K-12 students across Oregon. Authorized by the Scio School District but overseen by its own governing board and school leadership, Willamette Connections Academy offers a high-quality educational experience that keeps students motivated and engaged in a safe, virtual learning environment. In addition to academics, teachers focus on emotional well-being and social development, working closely with families to help students learn how they learn best. Here, students gain the skills and confidence they need to direct their own educational journey, learning to thrive in the real world by first learning how to be resourceful and resilient. For more information, call 800-382-6010 or visit http://www.WillametteConnectionsAcademy.com.
Media Contact
Dawn Phillips, Connections Academy, 503-750-1764, [email protected]
SOURCE Connections Academy
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