By Jane Kummer
My child attends Wisconsin Connections Academy, a public, free online school. I was interested in this school because after home schooling my children for many years, I wanted to find a program that offered me the assurance that they were getting the type of high quality, rigorous education they needed in order to succeed beyond high school. Wisconsin Connections Academy was a perfect fit because it's a program that offers a perfect balance of flexibility and accountability for my son.
My child is a ninth grader and his lessons are tailored to his style of learning. The flexibility of the program allows him to start his day when he is the most focused and he is able to take breaks as needed. This has allowed him to participate in other activities during the day such as music lessons, medical appointments, and volunteer work. During his school day, he connects with his teachers and fellow students online, where he is “virtually” in the classroom. If he needs additional help with a lesson, his teacher is able to work one-on-one with him. My son is able to reach his teacher throughout the day via webmail, phone, or in the virtual classroom. We’re all thriving under this arrangement. The classroom is anywhere there is the internet, which has allowed us to take family vacations during the school week. Textbooks, science equipment, a computer and internet subsidy are provided as part of the school; field trips are scheduled. We have participated in some great field trips to museums, plays, amusement parks, and much more
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So, I’m writing to say “Thank you.” Thank you to the Governor, the Board of Education, and Legislature for providing funding for virtual education. Thank you to all the parents, educators, students and community leaders who make this program work for students across the state who are academically gifted, need extra assistance, want or need a flexible schedule, or seek an alternative to the traditional classroom. This school works. Visit us at www.connectionsacademy.com/wisconsin-virtual-school.