Online Learning 'Clicking' for Thousands of Students This Fall

While most K-12 students across Oregon will hop on busses and return to classrooms at local school buildings, thousands of others will simply turn on their computers, complete assignments, and interact with teachers and classmates—all without ever leaving home. These students are heading back-to-school Tuesday September 3rd at the state’s leading virtual public charter school, Oregon Connections Academy (ORCA), which is celebrating its 15th school year this fall.

Laura Howard, from Eugene, is among a handful of so-called “Legacy” educators; those who started when Oregon Connections Academy opened its online school doors in 2005 and have remained on staff ever since.

“It’s amazing to see how far our school has come over the years,” said Howard, now the Student Engagement Administrator at the school. “We have a strong community here of caring educators and engaged families. There are a lot of great programs for all students whether they need more of a challenge or if they are struggling. We have an excellent department that supports students with special needs, a talented and gifted program, along with dual credits and AP courses for advanced students, and our teachers personalize curriculum for each student who needs it.”

Fifteen years ago, Oregon Connections Academy started out with 650 students. This past school year, the student population had grown to nearly 4,400. In 2005, 10 faculty members founded the online school; today, almost 200 serve students statewide.

The new school year kicks off just as results of the school’s annual Parent Satisfaction Survey reveal high praise for the program, teachers, and curriculum. Ninety six percent of parents agree that not only are their children satisfied with the school, but parents are also pleased with their child’s academic growth. The survey showed 96% of parents praising the helpfulness of teachers, 95% calling the curriculum “high quality”, and 94% agreeing the school’s technology tools improve their child’s learning experience.

Of parents surveyed, 93% say they would recommend Oregon Connections Academy to other families.

“The teachers and staff at ORCA go above and beyond to make sure my child gets the best education he needs,” said Christina Duval from Bandon, mother and Learning Coach to incoming freshman Lucas. “We, as parents are very satisfied with ORCA and the high quality curriculum they offer. I recommend ORCA to everyone I meet!”

The survey also revealed the main reasons why parents enroll their students in Oregon Connections Academy, with “flexible schedule” topping the list for 45% of respondents.

Hailey Eckstein, from Scio, an Oregon Connections Academy sophomore, has been a student at the school since kindergarten. She recently got involved in set design for the Albany Civic Theatre, completing one musical in August and working on another show for the fall. "Over the summer I was able to find something that I love and thanks to the flexibility of Oregon Connections Academy I will be able to continue doing this on other productions during the school year,” explained Hailey.

Other reasons parents cite as to why their families select online schooling include a desire to be more involved in their child’s education (26%), wanting a personalized education (21%), and nearly 40% seeking a safe learning environment for their students.

The Pascu family from Troutdale enrolled their daughter Emily in Oregon Connections Academy six years ago. Emily considered switching back to traditional brick-and-mortar school this fall for the social aspects. However, after spending a week at summer camp with many students from that school setting, she decided to stick with online education. “She decided to continue with ORCA because it will allow her to control her studying environment without distractions,” explained Nafeesa Pascu, Emily’s mom and Learning Coach. “The flexibility of the schedule will allow her to socialize whenever and however she likes.”

Enrollment for the 2019-20 school year is ongoing, and online information sessions are being held for families interested in learning about Oregon Connections Academy and the school’s individualized approach to education. For more information please visit the school’s website at www.OregonConnectionsAcademy.com/Events or call (800) 382–6010.