Melissa Gregory
School Leader
ME, Educational Leadership, American Public University; BA, History Education, University of Central Oklahoma
Melissa Gregory began teaching in 2009 and has been a part of the Connections Academy family since 2013. She became an educator because she loves working with kids and is energized and inspired when helping students decide on their future career paths. Ms. Gregory is currently the principal, but in previous years she taught history courses, including U.S. History, Economics, Government, and World History.
Why I Became an Educator
In college, I kept taking history courses because I was so interested in them. One of my professors stopped me one day and asked me why I kept taking history courses if I wasn’t a history major. I told him I just loved the content. He told me I should consider becoming a teacher. I started to move in that direction, changed my major, and finished up my degree. My mother is an educator as well and someone I look up to. She has inspired me all along the way! I know I am in the right place because every day I wake up and look forward to doing this job. I enjoy every moment of working with our Oklahoma students!
The Online School Experience at Oklahoma Connections Academy
I believe that our school format is set up a lot like a college or university. Information is not spoon-fed to the students in large groups. They log in and work through and master concepts at their own pace. Students must also learn to advocate for themselves throughout this process and reach out to a teacher if they need additional help. Being responsible and taking ownership of their schoolwork is something that is also expected of students at the college level. Our teachers value the ability to speak one-on-one with students because it creates a strong connection. We also talk frequently with caretakers right along with the students. We host field trips and other events where caretakers and students are present, so we get to connect with the whole family! These events are all over the state throughout the year!
Ask lots of questions and speak with us! We love talking about our school and want to make sure that it is a good choice for your family.
— Ms. Gregory
The Benefits of K-12 Online Learning
I think one huge advantage of online schooling is control. Students at our school are in control of their schedules. Students do not have to sit and wait for bells, other students, or roll call. They can start their lessons in the morning, go to an appointment, come back and have everything they need to complete their work in a timely manner. They also don’t miss crucial notes that are only available when a teacher speaks to them. Our resources are posted and recorded for future and repeated reference. They also can take a little more time on a concept if they are struggling, and move faster through other subjects that come easier to them. Once students figure this out, they love this freedom!
Message for Families Considering Online School
Please do your research about how our school works! Ask lots of questions and speak with us! We love talking about our school and want to make sure that it is a good choice for your family. Asking those questions upfront helps that transition into a whole different kind of school.
My Interests
I enjoy being outside! I work in my yard a lot and spend time at Grand Lake with my family. I am also on a mission to save turtles!