Cypress Connections Academy Celebrates the Graduating Class of 2026
Lafayette, La. (May 26, 2026) – Cypress Connections Academy, a full-time, tuition-free virtual learning pod program serving students in grades 4–12 across southern Louisiana, proudly celebrated its inaugural graduating Class of 2026 on May 11. Seniors, family and school staff gathered at the Cajundome in Lafayette for a historic commencement ceremony marking the school’s first graduation milestone.
Cypress Connections Academy’s graduating seniors hail from across the Acadiana region and surrounding parishes, each having completed their high school journey through a supportive online learning environment. The Class of 2026 demonstrates diverse post-graduate aspirations with 69 percent plan to attend two- or four-year colleges or universities, 22 percent plan to enter the workforce, and 9 percent plan to receive vocational training.
As a public virtual learning pod program part of Lafayette Renaissance Charter Academy (LRCA), Cypress Connections Academy provides students with a comprehensive virtual school experience that keeps them motivated and engaged with a strong circle of support and a deep sense of belonging. The program is designed to meet students where they are academically while preparing them for success beyond graduation.
“We are incredibly proud of our graduating seniors and all they have accomplished during their time at Cypress Connections Academy,” said Tara Carr, school leader at Cypress Connections Academy. “Our flexible, supportive learning environment allows students to grow academically while building the confidence and skills they need for life after high school. We’re excited to see this class take the next step toward college, careers, and other opportunities, and we look forward to celebrating their continued success.”
Throughout their time at Cypress Connections Academy, 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. This learning model allows students to learn in a structured yet flexible environment while still meeting all Louisiana graduation requirements and participating in state testing.
Students in the program also have access to College and Career Readiness opportunities that help prepare them for life after high school. 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.
The positive impact of these opportunities and the overall Cypress Connections Academy experience resonated strongly with graduating seniors. Many students valued LiveLesson sessions, especially when teachers brought humor to the virtual classroom. One graduate shared that a favorite memory was how simple the school made learning, along with the ability to stay home and complete schoolwork. Another graduate said the teachers were helpful and patient throughout the year, adding, “They deserve a round of applause!”
Cypress Connections Academy is available to students in the parishes of Acadia, Ascension, Assumption, Calcasieu, Cameron, East Baton Rouge, Iberia, Iberville, Jefferson, Jefferson Davis, Lafayette, Lafourche, Livingston, Orleans*, Pointe Coupee, St. Charles, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Landry, St. Martin, St. Mary, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, Terrebonne, Vermilion, Washington, West Baton Rouge and West Feliciana.
Enrollment for the 2026-2027 school year is open for students in grades 4-12. Families interested in Cypress Connections Academy are encouraged to attend an online information session to learn more, ask questions, and discover if the virtual school program is the right fit for their student. For more information on Cypress Connections Academy, please visit https://www.connectionsacademy.com/louisiana-online-school/ or call 1-833-591-0251
About Cypress Connections Academy
Cypress Connections Academy is a tuition-free virtual learning pod for students in grades 4-12 residing across the southern Louisiana parishes of Acadia, Ascension, Assumption, Calcasieu, Cameron, East Baton Rouge, Iberia, Iberville, Jefferson, Jefferson Davis, Lafayette, Lafourche, Livingston, Orleans*, Pointe Coupee, St. Charles, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Landry, St. Martin, St. Mary, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, Terrebonne, Vermilion, Washington, West Baton Rouge, and West Feliciana. Part of Lafayette Renaissance Charter Academy, the school program uses a proven core model of virtual learning, the nationally recognized Connections Academy program. Launched in 2024, Lafayette Connections Academy creates 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.