Student Spotlight: Charles M.
Charles McFarland is the valedictorian for the Great River Connections Academy class of 2023. We congratulate him and all our other graduates for their accomplishments.
Student Spotlight
Student Spotlight: Charles McFarland
Charles McFarland enrolled in Great River Connections Academy entering his junior year. Although he enjoyed attending his brick-and-mortar school, he says the COVID-19 pandemic created a lot of uncertainty since schools were forced to operate remotely. Charles also wanted to take more-challenging Advanced Placement®* courses and found that this school offered the curriculum he was looking for.
Reports Charles, “Attending Great River Connections Academy enabled me to have control of my own academic experience, through the courses that were offered and by allowing me to work at my [own] individual pace.” Charles plans to attend Lakeland Community College in the fall.
According to our 2023 graduates, more than one-third say they plan to continue their education and attend a two- or four-year college or university; others plan to join the military, pursue vocational training, or enter the workforce.
“I believe students should have the opportunity to go as far as their hard work will take them, and this school offered me that chance.”
Charles
*AP® and Advanced Placement® are registered trademarks of the College Board. Used with permission.
LEARNING WITHOUT LIMITS
Ignite Your Child’s Passions
Change is everywhere. At Ohio's Great River 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 standardized testing, 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
Tuition-free and high-quality
Designed by online learning experts
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 Great River 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.
93%
Of parents agree the Connections Academy curriculum is high-quality.
98%
Of parents are satisfied with the helpfulness of their child's Great River Connections Academy teacher.
96%
Of parents agree the technology used is improving their student's learning experience.
FOR ALL STUDENTS
Finding the Right Path for Each Student
Learning is a personal journey. However your child learns best, our teachers and curriculum will lead them forward.
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