Oregon Connections Academy Celebrates the Graduating Class of 2026
Tuition-free online public school honors graduates shaped by personalized, high-quality curriculum
PRAIRIE CITY, Ore. (July 2026) – Oregon Connections Academy, a tuition-free online public school, serving students in grades K-12, recently celebrated its Class of 2026 at an in-person commencement celebration held at the Salem Convention Center in Salem, Oregon. Students, families, and teachers gathered to honor the graduates’ academic achievements and recognize their readiness to pursue their goals beyond the virtual classroom. Oregon Connections Academy’s flexible, high-quality online education program serves more than 1,600 students across the state, empowering students through personalized learning pathways designed for success.
Oregon Connections Academy’s Class of 2026 represents a diverse group of graduates from across Oregon who have flourished through flexible, personalized online learning. Whether pursuing four-year degrees, vocational training, military service, or other opportunities, each graduate is well-equipped to pursue their chosen paths and achieve their goals.
Graduation Quotes from Oregon Connections Academy
“Our Class of 2026 has shown us the impact and power of personalized education,” said Janel Scurlock, principal of Oregon Connections Academy. “These graduates have navigated their education with dedication and resilience, building the skills and confidence they’ll need to thrive in the world. We celebrate their accomplishments and wish them success as they move forward.”
Oregon Connections Academy offers 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 mentors and guides throughout the school day.
For middle and high school students, Oregon Connections Academy’s College and Career Readiness 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.
Enrollment for the 2026-27 school year is open for grades K-12. Families interested in Oregon Connections Academy are encouraged to attend an online information session to learn more, ask questions and discover if a virtual school is the right fit for their students.
About Oregon Connections Academy
Oregon Connections Academy is a tuition-free, online public school for K-12 students. 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. Authorized by the Prairie City School District but overseen by its own governing board and school leadership, Oregon Connections Academy creates 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.