New Mexico Connections Academy Celebrates the Graduating Class of 2026
New Mexico Connections Academy, a tuition-free, online public school serving students in grades 4-12, celebrated its graduating class on Thursday, May 21. Graduates joined their friends and families for an in-person commencement ceremony at the Rio Rancho Events Center, marking the completion of their high school journey.
What’s Next for New Mexico Connections Academy High School Graduates?
The New Mexico Connections Academy Class of 2026 consists of graduates from cities and towns across the state who have benefited from a flexible, high-quality online education. Among the graduating class, 44 percent plan to attend two-or four-year colleges or universities, 20 percent plan to enter the workforce or pursue vocational training, and others plan to take a gap year or join the military.
“Graduation is a meaningful milestone that reflects years of hard work, perseverance and personal growth,” said Dr. Sandy Beery, Executive Director of New Mexico Connections Academy. “We are proud of each graduate for the path they have created for themselves and are excited to see what they accomplish next.”
New Mexico Connections Academy serves nearly 1,500 students statewide, 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.
“I could not be more proud of this year's National Honor Society Members,” said Kathryn Tidman, New Mexico Connections Academy teacher and National Honors Society advisor. “They each have shown their dedication to their personal academic goals, our chapter's Chapter Service Project, their own personal service projects in their communities, as well as expanding their leadership skills and improving their personal character.”
The school continues to prepare students for their futures with its recently expanded 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.
About New Mexico Connections Academy
New Mexico Connections Academy is a tuition-free, online public school for students in grades 4-12 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. For more information, call 1-833-591-0251.
Enrollment for the 2026-2027 school year is open for students in grades 4-12. Families interested in New Mexico 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.