Students at Gilbert-headquartered Arizona Connections Academy, a tuition-free online public school serving students statewide in grades K-12, have headed back to class.

Students from all corners of Arizona kicked off the school year on July 31.
 
“We pride ourselves on offering a high-quality education and giving all of our students the ability to make meaningful choices around curriculum," Heather Noto, Arizona Connections Academy’s school leader, said in a release. "We empower students to take courses that work for them within our supportive community, Our online school experience truly helps our students find their own path forward, and we have solutions for all types of learners.”
 
Students are returning to school shortly after the release of the 2024 parent satisfaction survey, an annual third-party survey that provides families with the opportunity to review their experience with Arizona Connections Academy.

According to the 2024 Parent Satisfaction Survey results:

• 96 percent of parents agree the Arizona Connections Academy program gives them greater opportunity to be more involved with their child’s education;
• 94 percent of parents agree their child is making good progress at the school;
• 96 percent of parents agree their child's teachers at Arizona Connections Academy are supportive;
• 93 percent would recommend Arizona Connections Academy.

Arizona Connections Academy serves more than 2,000 students throughout the state and first opened its virtual doors in 2003.

The school’s state-certified teachers receive specialized training in online teaching techniques and virtual classroom learning, which allows them to provide the one-on-one attention needed to help students succeed academically and be prepared throughout their educational journey.

Arizona Connections Academy’s curriculum and personalized approach to learning allows students to remain engaged and unlock their learning potential.
 
Amariah Phillips, a senior for the 2024-25 school year, has found success at Arizona Connections Academy and has made significant gains, according to her mother, Javare’ Phillips.

“I can’t express how grateful I am for the teachers at Arizona Connections Academy," she said. "They’ve really helped Amariah, and we have had some great people that really poured into what she needs."
 

There are in-person and virtual field trips, clubs and activities, and an in-person prom and graduation ceremony.

Students are already looking forward to the first in-person event for the 2024-25 school year—the school’s annual Back to School Picnic.
 
Amariah Phillips said she is looking forward to her senior year with Arizona Connections Academy and wants to encourage students new to online school to embrace the new learning environment and take their time.

“I would start from the heart first and work your way up,” she said. “Don’t be nervous, you will be just fine.”
 
Virtual school is a fit for a variety of students, including those who are academically advanced or struggle in a traditional school setting, as well as those who may be experiencing health challenges, bullying, or living in rural areas.

Others are athletes or performers who require a flexible learning schedule.
 
Arizona Connections Academy continues to enroll for the 2024-25 school year.

Families interested in learning if virtual school is the right fit for their child can attend upcoming information sessions. Those interested can learn more or begin the enrollment process by visiting www.ArizonaConnectionsAcademy.com or calling 1-833-591-025