As technology continues to revolutionize American education, the number of students turning to virtual and blended learning programs continues to grow. In fact, from September 2015 to September 2016, California Connections Academy @ Ripon saw student enrollment increase by 23 percent. The school, serving students in kindergarten through 12th grade who reside in Alameda, Amador, Calaveras, Contra Costa, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Santa Clara, and Stanislaus counties, is now enrolling new students for the 2017-18 school year during the open enrollment period and will be hosting digital and in-person information sessions throughout the counties for interested families to learn more.
California Connections Academy provides students who meet state residency requirements with the flexibility to learn from anywhere with an internet connection with an innovative curriculum that meets rigorous state education standards. The combination of state-credentialed teachers, a proven curriculum, unique electives, technology tools and community experiences creates a supportive and successful online learning opportunity for families and children who want an individualized approach to education. For more information, call 800-382-6010 or visit the school’s website.
California Connections Academy also offers a range of online clubs, from robotics and sports, to environmental, college prep, and more. Many students also enjoy the in-person field trips and special events planned throughout the year – from college visits to school dances – where they can socialize offline with staff and fellow students.
California Connections Academy is fully accredited (grades K-12) by the Schools Commission of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). The school opened in 2012 and is authorized under state law by the Ripon Unified School District.
Through advanced technology tools and a rigorous curriculum, teachers work closely with students to develop an individualized learning plan that nurtures their strengths and provides additional support on more difficult subjects. The diverse student body includes competitive athletes with strict training schedules, previously homeschooled students looking for teacher support, and students seeking expanded course offerings, among others.
“With more students and families continuing to turn to online education as a learning solution, we are dedicated to providing every student with the tools and guidance they need to achieve academic success,” said Amy Hunt, school site administrator at California Connections Academy @ Ripon. “We recommend that any families considering online school attend one of our information sessions to learn more about our approach to individualized education.”
While convenience and flexibility are largely cited as reasons for online education, the educational benefits of online learning can go far beyond that. California Connections Academy provides a high-quality curriculum that meets rigorous state education standards and state-credentialed teachers who teach a variety of courses, including honors and AP classes, extensive electives such as foreign languages, digital technology and career technical courses. In addition, the school offers core classes in math, science, language arts and social studies, and UC “a-g” approved science wet labs.
