Kansas Connections Academy Celebrates the Graduating Class of 2026
Kansas Connections Academy, a tuition-free, online public school serving students in grades K-12, celebrated the school’s 219 graduating high school seniors through both an in-person ceremony at the Midwest Trust Center on the Johnson County Community College campus and a virtual ceremony on May 15, 2026. The hybrid events honored the accomplishments of the Class of 2026 and gave students from across the state the opportunity to celebrate their graduation alongside family and friends.
The Kansas Connections Academy Class of 2026 includes graduates from communities across the state who have benefited from a flexible, high-quality online education. Among the graduating class, 45 percent plan to attend two- or four-year colleges or universities, including Drake University, Marquette University, Rutgers University, the University of Akron, and the University of New Mexico. Additionally, 27 percent plan to enter the workforce, 16 percent plan to receive vocational training, and 11 percent plan to serve in the military or take a gap year. The graduates were collectively awarded more than $1.5 million in scholarships and awards.
Graduation Quotes from Kansas Connections Academy
Dodge City resident Felicity Pittman, one of four valedictorians of the Class of 2026, will attend Kansas State University this fall, where she plans to major in Political Science and International Studies, with minors in French and Music Performance, on a pre-law track. However, before starting university classes, Pittman will spend two months in Benin, West Africa this summer, participating in mission work with local churches.
Reflecting on her time at Kansas Connections Academy, Pittman shared, “Kansas Connections Academy has been instrumental in preparing me for life after graduation. I have been impacted by relationships with teachers and students alike – being part of this online community has been a highlight of my high school career.”
Kansas Connections Academy valedictorian, Felicity Pittman
“It’s been a privilege to watch our seniors as they transition into capable, young adults ready to make their mark on the world,” said Laura Hochman, school leader at Kansas Connections Academy. “The class of 2026 joins a strong community of Kansas Connections Academy alumni, and we encourage them to continue to make meaningful connections wherever they go.”
About Kansas Connections Academy
With more than 15 years of experience, Kansas Connections Academy serves more than 1,200 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.
Kansas Connections Academy continues to prepare students for life after graduation through its established 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.
Kansas 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.
Enrollment for the 2026-2027 school year is open for students in grades K-12. Families interested in Kansas 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.