Utah Connections Academy’s Class of 2025 Graduation
Congratulations to the Utah Connections Academy Class of 2025! Our students are graduating prepared to meet any challenge that might come their way, and we look forward to seeing how they help shape the world!
Utah Connections Academy, a statewide, tuition-free online public school serving students in grades K–12, celebrated the 122 members of the Class of 2025 during a live-streamed commencement on Thursday, May 22, 2025. Friends and family from every corner of Utah logged in to watch the ceremony, which featured both student and faculty speakers and a special slideshow featuring each graduate.
Graduation Quotes from Utah Connections Academy
“We are deeply committed to fostering the growth and success of our community by shaping future generations,” said Dr. Mollie McBroom, Utah Connections Academy’s School Leader. “Our school is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in the classroom long after graduation. We know our students are ready to set out and truly make a difference in the world.”
Lucy Gibson, Class of 2025 Valedictorian, graduated with 54 college credits thanks to the concurrent enrollment opportunities that Utah Connections Academy offers. When reflecting on her time at Utah Connections Academy, she said, “It’s taught me a lot of self-reliance. In the end, it’s up to me how much I learn. I have the full support of my teachers and my parents. That’s been really good to teach me how to prepare for college and life ahead.”
Lucy started online school with Utah Connections Academy as an eighth grader during the pandemic because her mom was high risk. “It opened up such a world of opportunity, exploration, and all the things she loved,” said Sharla Gibson, Lucy’s mom and Learning Coach. “She had sign language, art, and photography classes. She loved the freedom of online school, and it allowed her to explore all sorts of things and that love of learning was reignited. It gave her the freedom to love learning again.”
What’s Next for Utah Connections Academy High School Graduates?
Among Utah Connections Academy’s graduating class, 24 percent plan to attend two- or four-year colleges or universities, 16 percent plan to enter the workforce, 13 percent plan to pursue vocational training and others plan to serve in the military or take a gap year.
About New Mexico Connections Academy
Utah Connections Academy is a tuition-free, accredited online public school for K–12 students. Authorized under state law by the Utah State Charter School Board, Utah Connections Academy offers a high-quality educational experience that keeps students motivated and engaged in a safe, virtual learning environment. In addition to academics, state-certified teachers focus on building fundamental life skills, working closely with families to help students learn how they learn best.
The 2025–2026 academic year will mark the school’s second year of its successful College and Early Career Readiness offering for middle and high school students. This program integrates traditional academic subjects with industry-leading, career-focused options like IT, business, health sciences, and marketing and equips students with durable skills like leadership, critical thinking, and teamwork.
Enrollment is currently open for the 2025–2026 school year. Families interested in Utah 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. To learn more about the school or to begin the enrollment process, please visit our site or call 1-833-591-0251.