Joseph Sailors
School Leader
MA, School Leadership, Baker University; BA, Geography and Spanish, Pittsburg State University
Joseph Sailors began his journey with Kansas Connections Academy in 2019 as the assistant principal, and became the school leader in 2020. He enjoys seeing families experience school in a different way, and has found that online learning provides them with the chance to focus on academics and choose how to connect socially in a way that is best for their circumstances. Mr. Sailors shares his story below:
Why I Became an Educator
I had lots of academic interests during school, and deciding what career I wanted to pursue was challenging for me. Growing up, I spent a significant amount of time working helper roles, and came to enjoy helping others learn. As I moved through my college classes, I developed a deep interest in other cultures and languages, so I chose to put these interests together and become a Spanish teacher. Being a teacher and administrator has provided me opportunities to grow professionally and personally, and I can say with confidence that choosing to become a teacher was an excellent decision in my life.
The Online School Experience at Kansas Connections Academy
I love the flexibility and challenging curriculum our school provides students. The students at Kansas Connections Academy are unique and curious. I enjoy learning about their personal interests and academic goals. We have many different types of students attending Kansas Connections Academy. I appreciate the diverse backgrounds tremendously.
The teaching staff at Kansas Connections Academy is excellent. I challenge anyone to find a more dedicated and hardworking group of educators. The teachers and staff do a wonderful job connecting with students and families and providing the support kids need to be successful in our school.
Our students develop organizational and digital literacy skills that will benefit them beyond their school lives. Successful Kansas Connections Academy students know how to adapt to a changing world.
— Mr. Sailors
The Benefits of K-12 Online Learning
Online school allows students to take ownership of their learning. They can adjust schedules to meet their needs, and work in an environment with limited distractions. There’s a significant amount of transitional time in a brick-and-mortar setting that is removed in an online environment. This helps students focus on academics without the disruptions to their day you’ll find in a traditional setting. Additionally, Kansas Connections Academy students have access to an incredible curriculum that’s monitored, reviewed, and updated on a regular and consistent basis.
Our students develop skills online that can’t be taught in a traditional setting. Successful Kansas Connections Academy students are resourceful, independent, curious, resilient, and determined. They learn how to collaborate with peers and staff, and how to complete tasks in a timely manner. Our students develop organizational and digital literacy skills that will benefit them beyond their school lives. Successful Kansas Connections Academy students know how to adapt to a changing world.