Missouri Connections Academy Recognizes Saint Louis County Students

Sofia Tucker of Ballwin along with Amir Kimble and Amiriah Greer of Saint Louis, were recently selected to be among Missouri Connections Academy’s (MOCA) Students of the Month for February in recognition of their outstanding achievements in the virtual classroom.

“Our students of the month demonstrate leadership and an extraordinary commitment to learning while serving as strong role models for their peers,” said Lynsie Hunt, School Leader at Missouri Connections Academy. “The members of our faculty and staff are proud to give these virtual classroom leaders the recognition they deserve.”

Sofia, a kindergartener, Amir a first grader, and Amiriah a third grader, were each nominated by their teachers at the statewide, tuition-free, online public school. As a Student of the Month, each will receive a certificate of achievement and be profiled in the Missouri Connections Academy student newsletter and the school’s social media platforms. Each month during the school year, MOCA will recognize students in grades K through 12 who are excelling in the virtual classroom.

According to Sophia’s mother, Heather, she did a pre-kindergarten program in a virtual classroom, and they enjoyed it so much they decided to continue learning online at MOCA.

“We love the teachers,” Heather said. “They have been so sweet and kind. We may never be in the same room but the communication and attention to students has been great.”

Amir came to Missouri Connections Academy last year to be in a familiar, safe, and comfortable learning environment. His mother, Crystal, said transitioning to an online classroom was simple since they were used to working virtually during the pandemic. The only real adjustment was staying focused.

“Missouri Connections Academy is a wonderful alternative to in-person school,” Crystal said. “The kids like not having to wake up super early in the morning and they get to learn in a space where they are comfortable.”

Amiriah was enrolled in MOCA to be in a safe, continuous learning environment during the pandemic. According to her mother Charmica, the transition to the virtual classroom went well because the staff at Missouri Connections Academy was very helpful.

“They are learning more quickly than they did at their previous school,” Charmica said. “This is benefitting me as well because I'm learning alongside my children because the school involves the parents in the process.”

Virtual school is a great fit for a variety of students and each student is unique. Those who attend Missouri Connections Academy come from different backgrounds and choose full-time online school for various reasons. Some students prefer to take ownership of their education and benefit from the flexibility that virtual school offers, while others are looking for a safe learning environment.

Enrollment for Missouri Connections Academy for the 2023-24 academic year is open and the school will be hosting online information sessions for families interested in learning more about virtual education. A complete schedule of events as well as more information about Missouri Connections Academy is available at www.MissouriConnectionsAcademy.com or by calling 1-(800) 382-6010.