Frequently Asked Questions
What grades does Ohio Connections Academy serve?
Ohio Connections Academy serves grades K–12.
How is Ohio Connections Academy (OCA) different from other "e-schools" in Ohio?
Ohio Connections Academy is the one school in Ohio to offer the Connections Academy program, which is the only program of its kind to be certified nationally by AdvancED. OCA itself has also been accredited by both AdvancED and the North Central Association. Many parents who have explored the other community (charter) e-schools in Ohio also say OCA provides more intensive teacher support and better technology tools to truly personalize the educational program for your child.
What standardized tests are required for Ohio Connections Academy students?
The Ohio legislature has implemented a requirement beginning with the 2006–07 school year that all students attending an "e-school" Internet or computer-based community (charter) school must participate in any required state standardized testing for public school students (for example, Ohio Achievement Tests in grades 3–8). Students who do not meet this requirement must be immediately withdrawn from the school, among other consequences. As is expected of all Ohio e-schools, OCA will enforce this requirement.
Does Connections Academy provide services and accommodations for students with disabilities?
For students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) Connections Academy provides a continuum of virtual special education services that range from consultation, curriculum accommodation and modification, collaboration with learning coaches and general education teachers, to virtual direct instruction. Connections Academy provides students with IEPs with related services, that may include virtual speech language and virtual occupational therapy, as determined by the IEP team. For eligible students with disabilities who do not require special education, Connections Academy develops (as needed) and implements Section 504 plans that detail appropriate accommodations and modifications.
What technology is provided in Ohio?
By law, all students in Ohio are eligible to receive the loan of a desktop computer. Each family that requests technology also receives a printer and a reimbursement for Internet access. See the Technology section of the web site for details.
Are families able to request laptop computers?
Laptops are only given in extraordinary circumstances, such as disabilities that require frequent doctor visits and/or hospitalizations or military families - but not for families that just travel frequently or who feel that they have no room for a desktop computer. Families meeting these criteria may be required to provide documented support of the circumstance. Qualification for a laptop does not guarantee that one will be provided. Approval of these requests are based on available equipment.
Read additional Connections Academy FAQs.