INDIANAPOLIS – Indiana Connections Career Academy, a tuition-free full-time public virtual school, recently celebrated more than 185 graduates as part of the Class of 2024. The diverse and accomplished group of students gathered from across the state for an in-person ceremony with family, friends and teachers to celebrate their achievements.
“At Indiana Connections Career Academy, we are immensely proud to recognize our high school graduates,” said Kelly Simone, executive director of Indiana Connections Career Academy. “Seeing our students walk across the stage represents not only their academic successes but also their personal development and readiness for their future careers. We are privileged to have been a part of their educational journey, providing them with the skills and knowledge needed for career success, and eagerly anticipate their future accomplishments.”
Among the graduating class, 52 percent plan to attend two- or four-year colleges or universities, including Ball State University, Ivy Tech Community College, Purdue University, the University of Saint Francis and the Universal Technical Institute. Additionally, 25 percent plan to enter the workforce, 13 percent plan to pursue vocational training and others plan to serve in the military.
Indiana Connections Career Academy’s standout seniors who walked across the stage include:
- Neo Klein-Shafer of Peru, Ind. was president of both the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) and the National Honor Society (NHS) and recipient of the Career and Technical Education (CTE)’s Award for Excellence.
- Bailea Abbott of Frankfort, Ind. was a member of the National Honor Society and a competitive equestrian rider for 13 years, competing across the country; she plans to attend Ball State University and major in nursing.
In its seventh year of operation, Indiana Connections Career Academy students utilize the nationally recognized Connections Academy online curriculum and technology. Indiana Connections Career Academy students pursue graduation requirements to earn a high school diploma while also completing a career-focused program that prepares them for joining the workforce in one of Indiana’s high-growth fields. By engaging in career education Live Lessons, completing career-facing activities and demonstrating employability skills, students earn badges, gain elective credit and are better prepared for life after high school.
Indiana Connections Career Academy provides students with a safe, engaging environment that offers STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) and career-focused courses for specific skill development and career exposure. The school combines traditional courses with industry-leading, career-focused options through its expanded college and career course offering designed to help students develop the right skills, gain real-world experiences, and make industry connections.
Enrollment for Indiana Connections Career Academy’s 2024-2025 school year is open for students in grades 6-12. Interested families are encouraged to attend one of the upcoming online information sessions to find out if virtual school is the right fit for their students. For more information about Indiana Connections Career Academy or to begin the enrollment process, visit Indiana Connections Career Academy or call 833-591-0251.