Utah Connections Academy Kicks Off the 2021-2022 School Year

Salt Lake City, Utah – Children across the state logged on to their first day of school at Utah Connections Academy. Excited teachers and staff welcomed new and returning students to the virtual classroom at the tuition-free, online public school. For the past ten years, Utah Connections Academy has offered students in grades K-12 a safe, engaging and supportive learning environment.

“As a collective society, the pandemic has taught us that we cannot completely predict the future and that we are not able to control all events and circumstances. What we can focus on is our continued commitment to providing our students with a safe learning environment and teachers who are committed to helping our students thrive,” said Utah Connections Academy school leader, Erin Taylor. “We help our students find their way forward with our amazing teachers, staff and counselors.”

Utah Connections Academy’s state-certified teachers receive specialized training in online teaching techniques and virtual classroom learning, which allows them to provide the attention needed to help students succeed academically and beyond. The school also offers a customized curriculum so students can remain engaged and unlock their full learning potential. Students have regular opportunities to share ideas, compare experiences and have fun learning with their peers through online classroom sessions, clubs and field trips.

“My favorite part of working at Utah Connections Academy is that I get to form strong bonds with my students and their families. Because we meet regularly, I am able to form relationships with both the students and their parents. I am also able to meet siblings, grandparents, neighbors and a whole lot of pets,” said seventh grade advisor and teacher, Nathan Gealta. “The biggest piece of advice for new families is to realize you are not in this alone. Our teachers and staff are more than happy to help with anything our students need. Our staff truly cares about each individual student and will do whatever we can to help them succeed.”

Virtual school is a great fit for a variety of students and each student is unique. Utah Connections Academy students are diverse and come from all different backgrounds and educational histories. Some students are academically advanced and struggle in a brick-and-mortar setting, while some prefer to learn at their own pace. Other students may be experiencing health challenges or bullying, while others are athletes or performers who require a flexible learning schedule.

Families interested in Utah Connections Academy are encouraged to attend an online information session to learn more, ask questions and discover if Utah Connections Academy is the right fit for their student. To learn more about the enrollment process and view a complete list of events visit www.UtahConnectionsAcademy.com/events or call 800-382-6010.

About Utah Connections Academy

Utah Connections Academy is a unique, tuition-free, accredited online public school for K-12 students. Authorized under state law by the Utah State Charter School Board, Utah Connections Academy offers a high-quality educational experience that keeps students motivated and engaged in a safe, virtual learning environment. In addition to academics, teachers focus on emotional well-being and social development, working closely with families to help students learn how they learn best. Here, students gain the skills and confidence they need to direct their own educational journey, learning to thrive in the real world by first learning how to be resourceful and resilient. For more information, call 800–382–6010 or visit www.UtahConnectionsAcademy.com.