Minnesota Connections Academy Opens 2021-21 Enrollment

Minnesota Connections Academy (MNCA), a tuition-free, full-time public virtual school serving K-12 students throughout the state, officially opened enrollment for the 2021-22 academic year on February 3rd.

As school districts across the state have worked to provide distance learning opportunities for students through the pandemic, many parents turned to Minnesota Connections Academy for its leadership and expertise in providing a high-quality online program built specifically for the virtual environment. Through Minnesota Connections Academy, students receive an online education that is tailored to their individual needs. The combination of state-certified teachers, a proven curriculum focused on both academics and social-emotional learning, and a nurturing, safe academic environment prepares students to thrive in a changing world.

“The pandemic challenged many school districts and teachers to change everything they ever knew about education and caused a great deal of uncertainty and instability for parents and students,” said Minnesota Connections Academy Principal Melissa Gould. “Parents find stability in our virtual school and appreciate how our highly individualized approach empowers their children to learn and ultimately take ownership of their academic experiences.”

For more than a decade, Minnesota Connections Academy has served thousands of students with a variety of needs. Students with health issues or who are highly involved in activities outside of school succeed in the online environment because it offers a more flexible schedule. Other students benefit from the ability to work at their own individual pace with learning plans tailored to match their interests, needs and abilities or from the personal attention they receive from teachers to stay motivated and engaged.

According to the results of the 2020 Parent Satisfaction survey, 97 percent of parents agree their children are satisfied with Minnesota Connections Academy’s program and 95 percent would recommend the school to other parents.

As families searched for an established online learning environment last year during the pandemic, many transitioned to Minnesota Connections Academy. Jennifer Potocnik, of Mankato, chose the online school so her son, Elliot, would experience continuity of learning with a program designed to be delivered online. According to Jennifer, switching to the online classroom was a little scary; however, Elliot was able to adapt with the help of his supportive teachers.

“This year has been a challenge like none other. I was able to witness firsthand the chaos that the kids were thrown into last spring,” Jennifer said. “We decided that Minnesota Connections Academy would be the best option for Elliot, and it was the best decision we could have made. He has absolutely thrived at the online school. It is comforting to have some stability in a time of such uncertainty.”

Minnesota Connections Academy is hosting online information sessions for families interested in learning more about virtual education. For more information about Minnesota Connections Academy or to begin the enrollment process, please visit www.MinnesotaConnectionsAcademy.com or call (800) 382-6010.

About Minnesota Connections Academy

Minnesota Connections Academy (MNCA) is a tuition-free, online public school for K–12 public students across the state. Minnesota Connections Academy offers a uniquely engaging, high-quality education experience through a safe, social learning environment that helps students learn how they learn best. The combination of state-certified quality teachers, a proven, student-centric school curriculum, unique electives, technology tools, and community experiences empowers students to gain the skills and confidence they need to thrive in a changing world. For more information, call 800-382-6010 or visit www.MinnesotaConnectionsAcademy.com.