Connections Academy is a tuition-free, accredited K-12 online public school available in 31 states where certified teachers deliver state-aligned curriculum to students learning from home.
What is Connections Academy?
Connections Academy is not homeschooling—it's a fully accredited online public school owned by Pearson Education. Students learn from home but follow a structured school year with state-certified teachers, required assessments, and standardized testing. Parents serve as "Learning Coaches" who facilitate daily learning, especially for younger students. The program issues official transcripts and diplomas, and because it's publicly funded, families pay nothing for tuition. Available in 31 states, each state's program operates under different charter or district contracts.
Key Takeaways
- Tuition-free public school, not homeschooling—funded by state tax dollars
- State-certified teachers provide instruction through virtual classrooms
- Parents serve as Learning Coaches with significant daily involvement required
- Students must complete state-mandated assessments and follow a structured calendar
- Available in 31 states with varying policies by location
How It Works
Students log into a proprietary Education Management System for live virtual classroom sessions, independent coursework, and communication with teachers. The school provides most materials including textbooks and supplies. Unlike flexible homeschool schedules, Connections Academy follows a traditional school year calendar with specific deadlines and pacing requirements. Teachers conduct periodic real-time sessions and remain available for one-on-one support, but parents handle day-to-day facilitation. Elementary students often need 4-6 hours of parent involvement daily, while high schoolers typically require 1-2 hours.
Online Public School vs. Homeschool
What Parents Should Know
The Learning Coach role requires more involvement than many families expect. Reviews consistently mention this as both a strength and challenge—you get personalized attention but must commit significant time. Some parents praise the program for helping struggling students thrive, while others find the workload overwhelming. The program works best for families who want public school structure without the physical building, not those seeking the flexibility of independent homeschooling. Since withdrawal is a formal process (not like canceling a subscription), families should research thoroughly before enrolling.
The Bottom Line
Connections Academy bridges the gap between traditional schooling and home-based learning, but it's important to understand what you're signing up for. This is public school at home—complete with certified teachers, required testing, and structured schedules. Families gain tuition-free education with professional instruction while keeping kids home, but sacrifice the curriculum freedom and scheduling flexibility that draws many to independent homeschooling. If you want school structure without the building, it's worth exploring. If you want complete educational autonomy, traditional homeschooling remains your better path.
