Minnesota Connections Academy Recognizes Class of 2021

More than 440 graduating seniors from all over Minnesota recently received their high school diplomas as members of Minnesota Connections Academy’s Class of 2021. The tuition-free, public online school recently celebrated the students and this academic milestone during a virtual commencement ceremony.

“The faculty and staff at Minnesota Connections Academy are so proud of this year’s graduates for their hard work and we admire their determination and perseverance during a very challenging time,” said Minnesota Connections Academy principal Melissa Gould. “These students came to our school in search of a learning environment that met their individual needs, and we know that when given the opportunity to learn in a way that works best for them, they thrive. Our Class of 2021 is ready to move on with the skills they learned to take on whatever challenges lie ahead.”

The Class of 2021 is the 13th graduating class for the experienced virtual school that serves students in grades K–12. Many of Minnesota Connections Academy’s Class of 2021 plan to attend a two or four-year college or university including the University of Minnesota, Minnesota State University, Anoka-Ramsey Community College, Butler University, Missouri State University, New York University and Saint Cloud Technical and Community College. Others in this year’s graduating class are entering the workforce, joining the military, taking a gap year, or pursuing other exciting opportunities.

Fourteen of the graduates are members of the National Honor Society while more than 94 graduated with honors (3.6 GPA or better). Overall, the Class of 2021 has received more than $650,000 in college scholarships and awards.

The following students from Dakota County are among Minnesota Connections Academy’s Class of 2021*:

· Henry Fafinski, Lakeville

· Lucas Kohler, Lakeville

Minnesota Connections Academy is an established online school that provides students with the continuous support of highly-skilled teachers and curriculum that focuses on both academics and social-emotional learning, while helping them gain the skills and confidence they need to thrive in a changing world. The school’s teachers are specially trained to bring their skills and personality to the virtual classroom and emphasize the importance of fostering meaningful connections with students and their families. Learning plans are flexible and can be uniquely tailored based on a student’s specific needs.

Enrollment for the 2021-2022 academic year is currently open. Minnesota Connections Academy is hosting online information sessions for families interested in learning more about virtual education. For more information about Minnesota Connections Academy or to begin the enrollment process, please visit www.MinnesotaConnectionsAcademy.com or call (800) 382-6010.

*NOTE: Not all students from the area may be included for privacy reasons.