Our teachers have biweekly calls to talk with students and parents about student success. During that time, we learn about the family environment and all the things that make our students and their families unique. Our field trips allow us the chance to meet families in person and to continue building the relationships we develop in the virtual setting. It is always amazing to see families in person and to have them get so excited to see you in person. Our students make me smile the most when they look at me in person, outside of the computer square, and they say, “I thought you would be taller.”
An education at Michigan Connections Academy is exactly like an education anywhere else, in the respect that the students will get out of it precisely what they put into it. Now, if they can work our program as it is designed, and if they have sufficient support at home from their Learning Coach, then our program helps to set them up for success in the respect that they are building a foundation of time-management skills, discipline, numerous computer skills, and independence.
My favorite part of the job is when we solve a puzzle. When we identify the issue and put the right supports into place, the student feels successful...that’s the magic of our process. The joy the parents experience from seeing their children succeed is the cherry –on top of a perfect moment.
Michigan Connections Academy teaches students to grow into independent learners, which is needed for any post-secondary path our students take. It teaches students to advocate for themselves by seeking out support when they don’t understand or when they want to know more. It helps students learn to manage their time and to self-monitor their learning. They troubleshoot by navigating a system, classes, different teaching personalities and environments, all to work toward overall success and graduation.