Image of Niki Ehrke

Niki Ehrke

High School Teacher

Niki Ehrke is a high school teacher at California Connections Academy. She joined Connections Academy in 2013 with more than a decade of educational experience. Mrs. Ehrke received her bachelor of arts degree in liberal studies at Fresno State, and her master’s degree in cross-cultural education from National University. She shares more about her teaching journey below:

"I had always kind of wished that I had earned a counseling credential, so when this position as a high school teacher came about at Connections Academy, I felt like it was where I was meant to be! I was so excited about the opportunity and I could not be more thrilled to be here. Now I get to talk to my students every day about their classes, future goals, and help guide them. There is nothing better than seeing my students succeed and realize that they can accomplish so much more than they ever thought possible!

I love everything about Connections Academy! I have never worked with a more supportive staff. Everyone truly cares about our students and we all work together to do everything we can to help them succeed. The curriculum is also amazing- it's no wonder that it is award-winning. Students are definitely getting a top notch education here that is preparing them for college and beyond. I also love speaking with so many students who are involved in outside activities such as gymnastics, ice skating, hockey, soccer, acting, and singing. We have some very talented and special kids at our school! I have to say, working in my pajamas isn't so bad either!

California Connections Academy prepares students for a successful future in so many ways. We offer some amazing courses such as Honor and AP courses, and Career Technology courses among others. Some of our Career Technology courses include Engineering Design, Psychology, Medical Assisting, Intro to Business, Intro to Sociology, Intro to Law, etc.—and they truly allow students to prepare for their future careers. We also have some amazing clubs that students can join, as well as the National Honor Society and AVID. Students have many opportunities throughout the school year to attend educational field trips and college tours, too.

"California Connections Academy prepares students for a successful future in so many ways. Students are definitely getting a top notch education here that is preparing them for college and beyond."

— Ms. Ehrke

With online school, students have more one-on-one time with teachers. Help is only a phone call or real-time online session away. Even though we don't get to see our kids every day, I feel like we get to know them better than we would at a bricks-and-mortar school." .

When she’s not teaching, Mrs. Ehrke enjoys doing outdoor activities such as hiking, water skiing, swimming, boating, and camping.