Great Lakes Learning Academy Celebrates Class of 2026
Online tuition-free public charter school honors more than 240 student graduates across Michigan
Lansing, Mich. – June, 2026– Great Lakes Learning Academy, a tuition-free online public charter school serving students in grades 6-12 statewide, recently celebrated the Class of 2026 at Okemos High School. The commencement ceremony honored more than 240 graduates from across the state, while family, friends and teachers celebrated each student’s unique journey and completion of this exciting milestone.
Graduation Quotes from Great Lakes Learning Academy
"I am incredibly proud to celebrate the Class of 2026. These graduates have shown outstanding dedication and adaptability in taking ownership of their academic journeys,” said Dan McMinn, Executive Director of Great Lakes Learning Academy. “We are thrilled to honor their achievements thus far, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact all of our graduates will make across the state of Michigan.”
Great Lakes Learning Academy's Class of 2026 represents a diverse group of students from across the state who have benefitted from a personalized, high-quality online education. Among the graduating class, 51% plan to attend a 2- or 4- year college or university, 30% plan to enter the workforce and 8% plan to pursue vocational training. Other graduates have plans to join the military, take a gap year or pursue other opportunities.
Great Lakes Learning Academy offers a comprehensive virtual school experience that keeps students motivated and engaged with a strong circle of support and a deep sense of belonging. The school's team of supportive and experienced educators, specially trained in online instruction, establish meaningful connections with students, helping them achieve their full potential and reach their goals. Parents and caregivers are involved in the learning journey as their child's Learning Coach, serving as mentors and guides throughout the school day.
In addition to the standard curriculum, Great Lakes Learning Academy is redefining high school success by integrating flexible online learning with robust Career and Technical Education (CTE). For years, CTE has served as a foundational pillar in Michigan, equipping students with the hands-on skills required for today’s workforce. Great Lakes Learning Academy elevates this model through a flexible, dual-track framework. Students have the unique opportunity to attend traditional, in-person programs through their local Intermediate School District (ISD) or opt for specialized, online CTE pathways. These digital programs span high-demand sectors such as healthcare, finance, hospitality and marketing—incorporating immersive virtual labs and directly preparing students to earn industry-recognized certifications.
Enrollment for the 2026-27 school year is open for students in grades 6-12 across Michigan. Families interested in Great Lakes Learning 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.
About Great Lakes Learning Academy
Great Lakes Learning Academy is a full-time online public school for students in grades 6-12. We create a high-quality educational experience that helps keep students engaged in a safe learning environment. Beyond academics, our teachers focus on building fundamental life skills, partnering with families to help students learn how they learn best. Here, students gain the skills needed to thrive in the real world by becoming resourceful and resilient. In addition to a traditional middle and high school option, Great Lakes Learning Academy offers an alternative high school option for students to take courses during two summer terms. This unique virtual program also offers block scheduling to allow students to take a reduced number of courses over nine-week periods to give students the quality learning time they need to master the skills and standards of their grade level.