• Connections Academy

Connections Academy

Corporate Values

Overview

Connections Academy has a rating of 3.3 stars from 529 reviews, indicating that most customers are generally satisfied with their purchases. Reviewers satisfied with Connections Academy most frequently mention public school, field trips, and live lessons. Connections Academy ranks 223rd among Education sites.

  • Service
    56
  • Value
    49
  • Quality
    52

This company responds to reviews on average within 2 hours

Positive reviews (last 12 months): 92.3%
Positive
84
Neutral
1
Negative
6
11
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How would you rate Connections Academy?
Business's Favorite Review

“Convenient, organized, prompt, reliable & friendly”

Martha F.
3/20/24

Best choice for our daughter, other than a charter school. Questions we had were all answered. Enrollment was easy. Teachers & Counselors are great to work with.The website for parents & guardians is easy to use. Our daughter is very happy choosing this school. Extra curricular activities outside the school have been creative. The variety of clubs vary & lots to choose from. Thank you for providing tjis online school service!

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Top Positive Review

“Happy with Connections Academy Education”

Izadora M.
3/20/24

I am a mother of two Autistic children. Connections Academy has not only been accommodating and patient during this difficult, yet exciting adventure. They've gone above and beyond at every chance possible to help us attain the foundation for a strong and hopeful future for our entire family. Thank you to the teachers and staff as well as the tech department for giving us your best efforts day after day.

Reviews (529)

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Reviews that mention popular keywords

connections academy (191) field trips (32) school work (19) school year (36)
Thumbnail of user deer148
1 review
6 helpful votes
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October 29th, 2020

I have two kid that attend this school my oldest was put on a waiting list and wasn't able to log in until 10/14 but the teachers started his lesson on the 8th so he was marked absent for thoughts two days and then they expect him to just know what all the other kids know even though they started school a whole month and some days before he did and then they so cheap they only supply them with one computer to share even in public school all the kids got there own computer and it takes all day for them to finish but they claim its better because they get to do their work when they want to its a joke

Thumbnail of user kimberlyk495
Alexis C. – Connections Academy Rep

Hi Dee. I’m sorry your family has had a rough experience so far. It can be challenging for students to start after the beginning of the school year, but your teachers can help you work out a plan that won’t feel overwhelming. If you haven’t reached out to them already, I encourage you to do so. I’d be happy to put them in touch with you, as well. If you’d like me to do that, please send me an email at community@connectionsacademy.com with your students’ first and last names and the state you live in, so I can locate your account. I’d be happy to explore computer options with you as well, once I know which school your students attend. ~Kim

Thumbnail of user harlt
8 reviews
5 helpful votes
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October 25th, 2019

I graduated last year. It was quite the ride, and I'm thankful for having the opportunity. I constantly piled overdues, but I was able to pass at the very end because the teachers got out of their way to help me one on one for a week. Big smooch to all of 'em.
Some subjects were bull$#*! and many of the classes were heavily outdated. Some teachers took a lot of time to respond to webmails and phone calls. That's about all for my complaints though.
Thanks to you all. A tip though, teach college enrollment better without the need of a club. You should teach it to everyone anyways.

Thumbnail of user brendag229
1 review
16 helpful votes
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March 17th, 2019

Students need to be motivated and have a good reason to attend. The school is a for profit owned by Pearson and the focus is to only enroll students to grow. The administrators are very low quality and the special education support and teachers are very poor. The schools are starting to close down due to the low performance and image of only wanting profits over quality.

Thumbnail of user jenniferh2356
1 review
0 helpful votes
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May 5th, 2021

We have had such a positive experience. Both my boys have IEPs and they have helped them so much more than I ever had in brick and mortar. They were always communicating to us and the teachers had real connections with my boys. They went out of their way to meet extra with them to make them feel comfortable. Mrs. Ebie is amazing and cares so much for her students! Mrs. Hunter was always so positive and really worked hard on her lessons to engage the students. These are just two of the teachers who were amazing. We loved our SLP therapist Amanda and our OT, Eddie. I am so confident in the staff and really was not stressed regarding the IEPs as I knew the school took my concerns seriously. Highly recommend from a parent point of view, but also as an OT who provides services to students in this setting, I really recommend the school from both experiences.

Products used:
It is an online school, so they provided all books needed (and more than other online schools) as well as return shipping at the end of the year. The online classrooms and experience were easy to use.

Thumbnail of user kimberlyk495
Alexis C. – Connections Academy Rep

We are grateful for your recommendation, Jennifer, and we’re delighted to hear that you and your boys have felt welcome, comfortable, and supported here. Providing that kind of environment is our top priority for us because we know students who feel safe and have the resources they need are set up to succeed as learners. ~Kim

Thumbnail of user lw640
1 review
0 helpful votes
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October 7th, 2023

My daughter attended FCA for one year as an interim as she auditioned into an art school because our local public schools aren't the best. My daughter loved her time at FCA, and she improved her GPA and state testing scores on Math and English. I wanted to keep her in FCA, but she wanted the art school! I was most impressed with the teachers and their helpfulness/responsiveness when she was confused with assignments. I would wholeheartedly recommend Florida Connections Academy, we will return if the art school doesn't work out. Education is changing shape and doesn't fit the brick and mortar mold anymore.

Location: Florida Connections Academy

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Quality
Thumbnail of user alexisc292
Alexis C. – Connections Academy Rep

Hi L W, We are thrilled to hear that you and your daughter had such a positive experience with Florida Connections Academy! We hope that she's doing well at art school! ~Alexis

Thumbnail of user omayraj1
1 review
0 helpful votes
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March 14th, 2023
Verified purchase

We are going on the 3rd year of school with Connections and we are very satisfied with the quality of academics offered. My child is happy while also learning and applying these lessons in her everyday life.

Thumbnail of user alexisc292
Alexis C. – Connections Academy Rep

Hi Omayra, Thank you for allowing us to educate your student for the past three years! We're grateful to hear that she's using what she's learning in her daily life! ~Alexis

Thumbnail of user kimberlys2497
1 review
0 helpful votes
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March 14th, 2023
Verified purchase

I pulled my granddaughter from brick and mortar education this semester and we came to Missouri Connections Academy. This was the best decision I could have ever made for her. Her teachers are wonderful. Her IEP is followed, it wasn't in seated school. She's not bullied, she was in seated school. I only wish I had done this earlier.

Service
Value
Quality
Thumbnail of user alexisc292
Alexis C. – Connections Academy Rep

Hi Kimberly, Thank you for sharing! We're so happy to hear that we have been a good fit for your granddaughter! ~Alexis

Thumbnail of user kayb45
1 review
6 helpful votes
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October 12th, 2016

My kids never enrolled in connections. I was looking into charter/online schools for my boy. I watched the informational video to find out about the school. Within 2 hours I got a call from them, I explained that I was just checking out options and wasn't ready to enroll. He was cordial and said I could call them when I was ready. The very next day I get another call from someone else. Why are you hounding me? I look at the frequently asked questions on website: Is connections a non-profit? Well only part of it... what I gathered is the schools themselves are non-profit. Since other charters in my state only get 80% of the state money for enrollment I am guessing that maybe this works the same? And the "company" gets the other 20%... and they probably aren't non-profit. Now I am just guessing here. I just really had a bad feeling about getting calls from across the county from a call center to enroll in a school in a different state. Seems fishy. But who knows.

Thumbnail of user junmerg
1 review
0 helpful votes
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April 2nd, 2024
Verified purchase

So far so great. Great experience so far from bottom to top.

Thumbnail of user alexisc292
Alexis C. – Connections Academy Rep

We're so happy to hear that you've had such a positive experience, Junmer! Thank you! ~Alexis

Thumbnail of user gerrid33
1 review
1 helpful vote
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May 23rd, 2023
Verified purchase

I have been disappointed in the Learning Coach "classes" as they are not geared toward Connected Learning kids. The Connections News also is not inclusive of special needs students or their teachers.
Teachers are great though. Carol Burhans has been super! IEP process has been very good too. I wish I could have gotten some in person support as we discussed.

Thumbnail of user kimberlyk495
Alexis C. – Connections Academy Rep

Hi Gerri, Thank you for your feedback. We're happy to hear that our teachers have had a positive impact on your student. We encourage you to continue working with the Special Education team at your school to ensure the needs of your student are being met. If you would like for us to have a staff member reach out to you, please email us at community@connectionsacademy.com. ~Alexis

Thumbnail of user williaml457
1 review
3 helpful votes
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January 12th, 2019

The worst a-g courses in the world you go from leaning at a brick&moater school to forgetting all that you've learned what a waste of life and your time I rather do time4learing.com very cheap and affordable homeschooling alternative to online schooling (Never Come Here Ever)

Thumbnail of user faitha31
1 review
3 helpful votes
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September 17th, 2018

On September 17 I made a review about how the admittance is terrible and how they wouldn't let me in because there's two which people in the school. Well they officially let me in the school and I love it so much. The teachers respond to me quickly they let me know what to do if I go on vacation or if I get sick till always answer me almost immediately if I need any help and I think it's just overall a great school. They even sent over a couple textbooks and a computer just in case you didn't have what you needed. The only thing that is bad is when you're rolling because it just takes a very long time but other than that it's a great school

Thumbnail of user tonyab461
1 review
0 helpful votes
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March 15th, 2023
Verified purchase

We have a lot of dr appointments and GACA is so flexible it makes things so much easier. Plus a bonus is GACA has amazing teachers and staff that is always there not only for my son but for the parents/learning coaches as well. Love the school all the way around.

Thumbnail of user alexisc292
Alexis C. – Connections Academy Rep

Hi Tonya, Thank you for sharing! We're happy that GACA is flexible enough to allow your family to take the time to go to your appointments. ~Alexis

Thumbnail of user marinam258
1 review
1 helpful vote
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July 7th, 2022
Verified purchase

My son has been with CCA since kindergarten. This year he'll be going into 2nd grade. I love that I can spend more time with him and be more involved in his curriculum. Since the pandemic happened I'm glad this program is available. Downside has been the in-person interaction with other kids. I feel he's a bit sheltered sometimes but he doesn't have a problem interacting with other kids when he's at the park or visits his dad over the summer. They do offer field trips to meet up with classmates most had been canceled the due to Covid. Hopefully, this year will be different.

Thumbnail of user alexisc292
Alexis C. – Connections Academy Rep

Hi Marina, Thank you for taking the time to leave your feedback! We love that we've enabled you to be more involved with your students learning. We also hope that we will have more in-person socialization opportunities in the future! If you would like other ideas on how to promote socialization outside of the virtual classroom, check out this Resource Hub article: https://www.connectionsacademy.com/support/resources/article/7-ways-online-students-can-socialize-outside-of-the-classroom/. We hope that your student continues to thrive with us! ~Alexis

Thumbnail of user kt174
2 reviews
35 helpful votes
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July 5th, 2019

I am reading a ton of bad reviews and can't even imagine what is being said. My child started this school in 8th grade and is now entering 10th. He has finished both years with A's and B's. The workload, in my opinion, is not heavy enough. Some days he is done with all his work in 2 hours. Teachers (with the exception of 1) are wonderful. If he reaches out to them with a question or an assignment he doesn't understand, they are either on the phone, in a live lesson room or through email within the same day helping him understand the issue. I am thouroughly content with his education and this school.

Thumbnail of user lisar1111
1 review
13 helpful votes
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August 27th, 2020

I registered my son during the pandemic. The teachers don't want to offer any help or answer any questions you may have. You are told you are a coach and, not the teacher, that is not true. You teach the kids, not the teacher. If you do have any questions the teachers will send you a link and that is it. They have live lessons. I have attended more than one live lesson. The live lessons are required, but taech nothing. Save yourself the time and effort and go elsewhere. I gave 1 star, but trust me the school does not even deserve the 1 star.

Thumbnail of user brittanyh694
1 review
0 helpful votes
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March 14th, 2023
Verified purchase

South Carolina Connections Academy is hands down the absolute best decision we made for our son Bentley and soon to join him his older sister Aubrey! We love everything about SCCA! Bentley has several medical issues, and due to weekly treatments, being homeschooled was his only option in order to properly care for all his medical needs. South Carolina Connections Academy has done a phenomenal job of helping to make Bentley's first year of Kindergarten amazing! We have seen a tremendous amount of growth in such a short amount of time. He loves school, his teachers, and so do we! Bentley can't wait for his sister Aubrey to join him next year and live their best life as proud students of SCCA!

Thumbnail of user alexisc292
Alexis C. – Connections Academy Rep

Hi Brittany, We're thrilled to hear that Bentley is doing so well at SCCA! We hope Aubrey excels, as well! ~Alexis

Thumbnail of user susanm5106
1 review
0 helpful votes
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March 14th, 2023
Verified purchase

Our experience with VACA has been a positive change for our son. He now enjoys learning. We have no regrets with our decision to go virtual. The staff is friendly and we have been blessed with caring teachers.

Thumbnail of user alexisc292
Alexis C. – Connections Academy Rep

Hi Susan, We understand that choosing to enroll your student in a virtual school is a huge decision, but we're happy to hear that your student has done so well with that decision! Thank you for sharing! ~Alexis

Thumbnail of user anonymousf19
1 review
21 helpful votes
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June 18th, 2018

I enrolled my my son, because of his anxiety problems. The teachers, are no help. Some of the courses are useless. The portfolio projects, are difficult for kids. I had the principle assign my son to detention on a Saturday, she stated his homeroom teacher was not able to get in contact with him. Meanwhile, he had already spoken to her. I had to email the principle, because she was trying to take his detention a step further and have him come in to the school. These people are horrible. If they think you are not doing the work, they will go in a change the attendance that you the parent put in to 0. Avoid if possible.

Thumbnail of user tammym1634
1 review
0 helpful votes
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March 14th, 2023
Verified purchase

The teachers are very helpful when there's a problem with the child the do call or email to help them my. My child is doing very well better than puplic school. The school provides everything love it would recommend to anyone with children

Thumbnail of user alexisc292
Alexis C. – Connections Academy Rep

Thank you for the kind words, Tammy! We're glad to hear your student is doing well at our school! ~Alexis

Thumbnail of user catel15
1 review
7 helpful votes
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May 24th, 2023
Verified purchase

I have two kids (7th grade and 12th grade), both have only done Minnesota Connections Academy for their education. I highly recommend this school! My son is graduating this year, and he will start college as a junior this fall because he did PSEO the last two years. He was more than prepared for college because of his educations with Connections. My daughter loves the flexibility and being able to learn at hew own pace.

Thumbnail of user kimberlyk495
Alexis C. – Connections Academy Rep

Hi Cate, This is great! We're thrilled to hear that your son has been able to set himself up for success with Minnesota Connections Academy and that your daughter can learn at her own pace! Thank you for sharing! ~Alexis

Thumbnail of user tanyap321
1 review
1 helpful vote
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April 26th, 2023
Verified purchase

My daughter was having a really hard time returning to school after Covid. The anxiety was too much for her. Enrolling her in to this school was the best decision we made. The teachers are amazing and work with her.

Thumbnail of user alexisc292
Alexis C. – Connections Academy Rep

We're sorry to hear that your daughter was having a hard time with her local school after Covid, but we're glad that we've been able to provide an education option that allows her to learn safely from home! Thank you for sharing, Tanya. ~Alexis

Thumbnail of user vanessac581
1 review
2 helpful votes
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March 24th, 2022
Verified purchase

This was our first year with Texas Connections Academy and I am so glad we made the decision to transfer my son to this program. My son should be a Junior but he failed the 9th grade but when COVID came during his repeat year we realized online school was his thing. So when it came time to send him back in person, it was not a good option for him. We also discovered he was being bullied because he is a Male All-star Cheerleader. He is thriving in the homeschool environment. The teachers stay in constant contact with both my son and myself. Communication is amazing! My son finds the courses are appropriate and able to be understood. If he has questions or needs assistance with an assignment he can always get ahold of a teacher. My Daughter is in Middle school now but in another year she will start HS. Already considering transferring her to this program as I am not impressed with the high schools in our area. Highly recommend TX Connections Academy!

Thumbnail of user kimberlyk495
Alexis C. – Connections Academy Rep

We're glad you discovered that your son works well in an online environment and we're delighted that he's getting the support and encouragement he needs. Wishing him continued success in school and with cheerleading! ~Kim

Thumbnail of user malissas12
1 review
0 helpful votes
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May 5th, 2021

Both of my children started OCA Fall 2020 due to the pandemic. I was concerned they would fall behind in their academics due to the pandemic and switched to OCA due to this and safety. I have been pleasantly surprised at just how much we like OCA! The teachers have been so supportive, lots of additional learning opportunities, clubs kids can be a part of, the classes challenge my children and they have grown so much with their learning this year! We love OCA and how much it is preparing our children for their futures.

Thumbnail of user kimberlyk495
Alexis C. – Connections Academy Rep

We’re glad you found us this year, and it’s great to hear that your children are thriving here. ~Kim

Thumbnail of user morgang46
1 review
6 helpful votes
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June 26th, 2019

It was overall amazing. I went here for 6th grade and now for 7th. I love how the teachers are very helpful, and want to help. I also liked that you could do the work at your own pace. I am very very happy with this school. Before I went here, I was very stressed with public school. Now I'm so happy!

Tip for consumers:
If you are actually doing the work, this will work out great. If you are being lazy and slacking off, be prepared to fail.

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From the business

Our tuition-free online public schools empower students to learn in a way that works best for them. From young dreamers to budding scientists, Connections Academy offers an online K-12 solution for all kinds of students. Our schools are inclusive, safe, and committed to giving each student the support they need to do their best and be prepared to succeed, no matter what the future holds.

Connections Academy offers online public school programs in 31 states. Although offerings vary by state, most schools serve grades K-12 and are open to students state-wide.

Business History

Twenty years ago, the first Connections Academy fully online public schools opened in Wisconsin and Colorado with a total of 200 students. Since that time, over one million students have experienced all or part of their K-12 education at a Connections Academy school. The launch of Connections Academy ushered in a new era in American K-12 public education, redefining our notion of education fundamentals like ‘school’ and ‘classroom.’ Equally groundbreaking: strengthening school choice options for families with access to a quality public education not bound by zip code and without walls or limits.

Company Representative

Thumbnail of user kimberlyk495
Alexis C.
Typically responds within 2 hours

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