About Connections Academy

Connections Academy is a leading provider of high-quality, highly accountable virtual schooling for students in grades K through 12. Through tuition-free public schools, and full-time and part-time private school programs, Connections Academy delivers superior, personalized education for students, with the freedom and flexibility to experience our online learning community from anywhere. The combination of certified teachers, a proven curriculum, technology tools, and community experiences creates a supportive and successful online learning opportunity for families and children who want an individualized approach to education.  

I have worked closely with Connections Academy for the past eight years as Board Chair of two of their California schools and I firmly believe that they are second to none in providing the highest quality online education to their students.  The Connections Academy schools are student centered and always do what is best for the families they serve.  As Vice President of the western region and a member of the NFFS Board I am very excited about the partnership with Connections Academy.

The Partnership

NFFS is working with 2 California Connections Academy Schools to provide Aviation Academies in Ripon and Visalia.  CALCAR principal Don Ogdon has paved the way for Rocco Ferrario and I to conduct building sessions that teach students how to construct model airplanes and demonstrate the science behind what makes their new creations fly.  The science teachers at the schools have done an excellent job of integrating the” Physics of Flight” into their everyday curriculum and they are excited about the opportunity to provide their students with hands on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) curriculum through the aviation program.  Now that the California schools are up and running we have Connections Academy schools across the country that are interested in starting Aviation Academies in their schools.  Our goal is to target regions where we have a strong NFFS presence and a Connections Academy school close by so that we can duplicate the efforts in California.

Look for articles in the Digest and stay tuned to the NFFS website for updates.  The website will provide information on how to get connected in your region.   We also have a NFFS/Connections Forum for all interested parties to learn and grow in this exciting endeavor.

Please contact me any time with input, concern or questions at tbatiuk@gmail.com or 949-547-4644.

Tim Batiuk
NFFS Connections Academy Coordinator