Indiana Connections Academy Celebrates the Graduating Class of 2026
Online school celebrates more than 1,000 graduates during in-person commencement ceremony at the Indiana State Fairgrounds
INDIANAPOLIS – More than 1,000 students recently graduated from Indiana Connections Academy, a tuition-free full-time online public virtual school serving students statewide in grades K-12. As part of the Class of 2026, the diverse and accomplished group of graduates collectively earned nearly $1 million in scholarships and awards. On June 1, students attending the full-time online public virtual school gathered from across the state for an in-person ceremony at Corteva Coliseum with family, friends and teachers to celebrate the graduates’ achievements.
“We are incredibly proud to recognize the 2026 graduating class,” said Kelly Simone, executive director of Indiana Connections Academy. “Their journey has been defined by hard work and growth, and this moment marks the beginning of the amazing impact they are destined to make. We are honored to celebrate their achievements and excited to see what they accomplish next.”
What’s Next for our High School Graduates?
The Indiana Connections Academy Class of 2026 consists of graduates from many cities and towns across the state including Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Greenwood, South Bend, Terre Haute and more. Of the Class of 2026 graduates, 40% plan to attend two-or four-year colleges or universities, including Notre Dame, Indiana University and Bowling Green State University. Additionally, 29% of graduates plan to enter the workforce directly upon graduation, 16% plan to attend vocational training programs, while others plan to join the military, pursue performing arts pathways or take a gap year.
Standout seniors who walked across the stage include:
- Maverick McCoy of Carmel, Ind. was the Class of 2026’s valedictorian.
- Laynee Budreau of Middlebury, Ind. was a recipient of the Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship.
For more than 15 years, Indiana Connections Academy has served thousands of students in grades K-12 across the state, offering 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 their mentor and guide throughout the school day.
The virtual school offers a variety of activities throughout the year to help build community and foster relationships, including numerous in-person and virtual field trips, National Honor Society, National Technical Honor Society, student government and in-person prom. In addition to core classes in math, science, language arts and social studies, students can choose from various electives, honors courses and dual credit opportunities. The school also offers a broad assortment of online clubs, ranging from robotics and gaming to poetry and art.
Indiana Connections Academy continues to prepare students for their futures with its successful College and Career Readiness program. Available to middle and high school students, the program blends core academic coursework with industry aligned, career-focused pathways, including IT, business, health sciences, and marketing. Students also build durable skills such as leadership, critical thinking, and teamwork, while gaining access to career exploration and industry networking opportunities that help them build confidence, make connections, and clarify their future goals.
Enrollment for the 2026-2027 school year is underway for students in grades K-12 at Indiana Connections Academy. Families interested in enrollment are encouraged to attend an online information session to learn more about the school. For more information or to begin the enrollment process, visit www.IndianaConnectionsAcademy.com or call 1-833-591-0251.
About Indiana Connections Academy
Indiana Connections Academy is a tuition-free, online public school for K-12 students across the state. True to our name, we believe meaningful connections drive better academic outcomes, so we build a strong circle of support that unites students, families, and educators. 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. For more information, call 1-833-591-0251.