Florida Connections Academy’s Class of 2025 Graduation
Congratulations to the Florida Connections Academy Class of 2025! Our students are graduating prepared to meet any challenge that might come their way, and we look forward to seeing how they help shape the world!
Graduates from Florida Connections Academy, a tuition-free online public school for students in grades K–12, celebrated their achievements in front of family and friends at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, May 30, 2025. The Class of 2025 had 386 graduates from across the state to participate in the commencement ceremony.
Graduation Quotes from Florida Connections Academy
“This is the largest graduating class our school has ever had,” said Florida Connections Academy school leader Marcie Trombino. “I am incredibly proud of the Class of 2025’s determination and can’t wait to see how these students use their enthusiasm for knowledge, both in and outside the classroom, to change the world.”
The graduation ceremony featured remarks from Trombino, Mary O’Malley, valedictorian, Ava Hopper, salutatorian, and Derrick McBride, author and inspirational speaker.
In her speech, Mary encouraged her fellow graduates to live with purpose. “Don’t just chase dreams. Live with purpose. Lead with purpose. And let that be your true compass.”
What’s Next for Florida Connections Academy High School Graduates?
Among the graduates, 48 percent plan to attend two- or four-year colleges or universities, including Florida Atlantic University, Nova Southeastern University, and the University of Florida. Additionally, 19 percent plan to pursue vocational training, 9 percent plan to enter the workforce, and others plan to serve in the military or take a gap year.
About Florida Connections Academy
Florida Connections Academy is a tuition-free, online public school for students in grades K–12 and is authorized by the Hillsborough County Public Schools Office. Florida Connections Academy is state certified and open to students throughout Florida. Since 2018, Florida Connections Academy has been providing a high-quality educational experience that keeps students motivated and engaged in a safe, virtual learning environment. In addition to academics, teachers help to build fundamental life skills, working closely with families to help students determine how they learn best. At Florida Connections Academy, students gain the skills and confidence they need to direct their own educational journey, learning to thrive in the real world by first learning how to be resourceful and resilient.
New for the 2025–2026 academic year, Florida Connections Academy will launch its expanded College and Career Readiness offering for middle and high school students. The school will integrate traditional academic subjects with industry-leading, career-focused options like IT, business, health sciences, and marketing.
Enrollment for Florida Connections Academy’s 2025–2026 school year is currently open for students in grades K–12. Families interested in Florida Connections Academy are encouraged to attend an online information session to learn more, ask questions, and discover if virtual school is the right fit for their student. For more information, call 1-833-591-0251 or visit our site.