Socialization
Our school offers online clubs, in-person activities, and local Iowa field trips to help students connect.
"The flexible schedule works well along with other sport and social activities that my son is involved with."
-Kasey R.
Overview
How do Online Students Socialize?
Socialization is an essential part of any education experience, helping students gain confidence, foster empathy, and develop social skills that they will need long into adulthood. Connecting with other students at school and in the local community is a big part of what makes Iowa Connections Academy so enriching. Children from all over the state, including from West Des Moines, Iowa City, North Liberty, and Council Bluffs, love all the opportunities they have to make new friends and explore their passions.
In addition to meeting with their fellow students in LiveLesson® sessions and collaborating with them on school projects, your child can join many other extracurricular activities, including virtual clubs and activities designed to connect with their peers while pursuing their interests, as well as optional, in-person field trips.
Many students also find that our flexible schedule gives them the opportunity to play sports, pursue art, volunteer or do anything else they enjoy in their community.
Field Trips
Exploring the World Together
There is so much to see and do all over Iowa. Our voluntary field trips give your child a chance to experience these amazing places firsthand. From historical sites to zoos, museums, the great outdoors and so much more, your child can go on adventures alongside their fellow students, exploring, learning and having fun together on school trips in Iowa.
Clubs & Activities
Online Extracurriculars for K-12 Students
There is so much to see and do all over Iowa. Our voluntary field trips give your child a chance to experience these amazing places firsthand. From historical sites to zoos, museums, the great outdoors and so much more, your child can go on adventures alongside their fellow students, exploring, learning and having fun together on school trips in Mount Vernon, Cedar Rapids, Davenport, and throughout Iowa.
Gross Science
Storytelling, Virtual Art Museum Field Trips
NASA News Flash
Financial Literacy/Money Smarts
Bring Your Pet to School
Snack & Chats
STEAM
Celebrating Diversity
Earth Day
Makers’ Lab
Mysteries of Math
Photography Showcase
Talent Shows
During the school year, the Connections Academy Clubs & Activities team offers a variety of events to provide opportunities for students to interact with other students, explore topics, and showcase talents. These special events occur during specified time periods and do not require club enrollment.
Some examples of special events include the Photography and Music Showcases, and Hour of Code (to celebrate Computer Science Week). There’s something for everyone in the online National Clubs & Activities program!
20
Clubs & Activities offered to students in grades K-12
10+
Interactive pop-up events each month
92%
Of students would recommend their club to a friend*
*Students responding to the 2024 Spring Club Surveys
Athletics
Can Online Students Play Sports?
Because learning at Connections Academy takes place virtually, our flexible schedule gives students the opportunity to play recreational or club sports in their local communities.
In addition, our schools participate in Connections Esports, which brings together several Connections Academy Esports Clubs. Depending on grade level, your middle or high school student can participate in competitions by playing Rocket League or Valorant. In 2022, we were ranked #1 nationally in Rocket League!
Community
Connecting on the Local Level
Want to stay connected to Connections Academy and learn more about our local families? Join us on Facebook. Whether you live in one of the small towns or big cities of Iowa, your local community is a part of who you are. And that makes it a part of who we are, too. Across the state, our community coordinators, Learning Coaches and students volunteer and participate in community events.
Joining us on Facebook is also a wonderful way to learn more about the role of Learning Coaches, including how families just like yours make Online School work for them.
Community
Follow us on Facebook to stay connected with the local Connections Academy community and learn more.
Get an inside look at Iowa Connections Academy
Sample Schedules
Sample Lessons
Student Stories
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