Spotlight: Brian Isles, Teacher
“People view authors like superheroes,” says Minnesota Connections Academy teacher Brian Isles, “but they were just like you when they were in school.” Mr. Isles should know — not only is he an experienced English teacher, he’s a published author himself.
Student Spotlight
Student Spotlight: Brian Isles, Teacher
Mr. Isles joined the faculty at Minnesota Connections Academy in 2020, after teaching for more than 12 years in brick-and-mortar schools. He feels that online education offers a safer, better organized learning environment for students.
Like many people within the Connections Academy community, Mr. Isles points to the school’s flexibility as one of the key benefits for students. However, he notes, flexibility also has benefits for teachers. For Mr. Isles, it meant being able to dedicate more time to his other passion: writing.
In fact, before discovering his love for teaching, Mr. Isles wanted to be a screenwriter and has written several plays. But his ultimate goal was to write and publish a book. And he did.
“To Be With You Again” by Brian Isles is now available in paperback or to download for Kindle on Amazon. According to the description on the back of the book, “This metaphysical novella asks the reader questions about love, living a full life, and why we fear what’s inevitable.” Mr. Isles is currently working on his next book, which is a horror novel for young adults.
“Never talk yourself out of trying something new … acknowledge that you don’t know everything, and embrace the unknown.”
— Mr. Isles
LEARNING WITHOUT LIMITS
Ignite Your Child’s Passions
Change is everywhere. At Minnesota Connections Academy, we’re helping students see change as an opportunity—so they can thrive in the world that lies ahead.
Our tuition-free online public school offers students in grades K–12 a safe, engaging environment where they can learn in the way that works best for them. Not only will your child gain the knowledge and confidence they need for assessments like the MCA test, they’ll build fundamental life skills they need to meet tomorrow’s challenges. As their learning coach, you’ll be by their side, supporting them along the way.
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Teaching students in grades K–12
Serving students statewide for over 15 years
Authorized by Minnesota Transitions Charter School
YOUR CHILD'S DAY
SEE HOW A TYPICAL LESSON WORKS FOR STUDENTS:
Science 4th grade, Plant Structures
Social Studies 3rd grade, The Environment
4th Grade Plant Structures - Sample Lessons
4th Grade Science
Plant Structures
Connections Academy 4th Grade Online Learning Unit | Plant Structures
2 min video
In this unit, Connections Academy online students explore how plants have adapted to their environments, diversifying and changing to thrive in all kinds of locations. Guided through a series of individual lessons that use dynamic text, video and audio, students enhance their critical thinking skills and their ability to make connections in the world.
3rd Grade Social Studies - Sample Lessons
3rd Grade Social Studies
The Environment
Connections Academy 3rd Grade Online Learning Unit | The Environment
2 min video
In this unit, Connections Academy online students take a virtual journey around the world, learning how geography and climate come together to create our environment. Guided through a series of individual lessons that use dynamic text, video and audio, students increase their understanding of science and why it matters to their life today and the world of tomorrow.
Teachers Who Know How to Reach Students
Our elementary teachers love helping young students learn and grow. They'll also be the partners you need to fully support your child as their Learning Coach. State certified and specially trained in online learning, our teachers embrace the uniqueness of every student and guide them along the learning path that’s right for them, leading them to a future full of opportunity.
PARTNERS IN LEARNING
Connections Academy Reviews
There’s no better feeling than watching your child thrive. At Minnesota Connections Academy, we give you the opportunity to be your child’s learning coach so you can be a part of their successes. Here’s what other parents are saying about the experience.
96%
Of parents agree the curriculum is high-quality.
95%
Of parents agree their student is satisfied with the Minnesota Connections Academy program.
97%
Of parents are satisfied with the helpfulness of teachers at Minnesota Connections Academy.
OUR REMARKABLE STUDENTS
Families Who’ve Found Their Path Forward
Each of our students has a story about their challenges and dreams and why Minnesota Connections Academy has been the right choice for their learning journey.
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