#United States #Career Readiness #Oregon Connections Academy #K-12 online education #Prairie City

A New Chapter for Oregon Connections Academy

Oregon Connections Academy, a free online public school serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade, proudly welcomed back both new and returning students for the 2025-2026 academic year. Located in Prairie City, Oregon, this institution enters its fifth year with a commitment to providing an engaging learning environment that emphasizes not just academic achievement, but also essential life skills necessary for future success.

The school is making headlines this year by expanding its College and Career Readiness program for students in grades 6-12. This initiative year blends traditional core subjects with cutting-edge, career-focused offerings in fields like Information Technology, Business, Health Sciences, and Marketing. This dual approach encourages students to develop critical competencies such as problem-solving, collaboration, and leadership. Students will also participate in career exploration activities that promote confidence-building and networking, essential for navigating their future educational and career landscapes.

Janel Scurlock, the school leader at Oregon Connections Academy, emphasized the importance of community in their approach, stating, "We are proud to begin another school year with such a dedicated community of students, families, and teachers. This year's expanded College and Career Readiness offering will help students explore their interests, challenge themselves, and prepare for success beyond the classroom."

The school has witnessed significant growth, currently serving over 1,000 students across Oregon. Offering a full-fledged virtual school experience, Oregon Connections Academy is dedicated to ensuring students remain motivated and engaged. A robust support network involving experienced educators trained in online instruction helps students form valuable connections that facilitate their academic journey. Moreover, parents are actively included in the learning process as they take on the role of Learning Coach, guiding and mentoring their children throughout the school year.

A recent survey released in conjunction with the new school year unveiled impressive satisfaction ratings among parents regarding their children's experiences. Findings from the 2025 Parent Satisfaction Survey revealed that:

• - 95% of parents reported that their child enjoys learning at Oregon Connections Academy.
• - 95% agree that the school allows them to be more involved in their child’s education.
• - 95% believe their child’s teachers at the school are supportive.
• - 94% think their child is receiving a quality education.

Enrollment for the 2025-2026 school year is still open. Families interested in the flexible virtual learning options that Oregon Connections Academy offers are encouraged to participate in online information sessions. These sessions provide opportunities to learn more about the offerings, ask questions, and determine whether virtual schooling suits their child's needs. For more information about Oregon Connections Academy, visit www.OregonConnectionsAcademy.com or call 1-833-591-0251.

About Oregon Connections Academy

Oregon Connections Academy operates as a unique, tuition-free online public school for K-12 students throughout Oregon. While authorized by the Prairie City School District, it is governed independently, allowing for a tailored educational experience. Its focus extends beyond academics to encompass emotional well-being, social development, and close collaboration with families to ensure students learn in ways that suit them best. By helping students become resourceful and resilient, Oregon Connections Academy prepares them not just for academic success, but for thriving in real-world environments.

Survey Methodology

The Parent Satisfaction Survey, conducted annually by Connections Academy, assesses how parents and Learning Coaches view various aspects of the program. For the 2024-2025 school year, the survey was undertaken by the independent market research firm Shapiro + Raj, which developed the questionnaire and analyzed the responses. Parents and caretakers of all students enrolled during the survey period were invited to participate online.