Ohio Connections Academy Recognizes Massillon Student

COLUMBUS, OH (May 2, 2024) – Jaden O’Dell of Massillon was recently named one of Ohio Connections Academy’s (OCA) Star Students of the Month for May in recognition of his hard work and leadership in the online classroom.

Jaden, an eighth grader at the statewide online public charter school, was nominated by his teacher, Ms. Pauken, because of his outstanding attitude towards learning in the virtual classroom.

As a Star Student, Jaden will be presented with a certificate recognizing his achievement and be profiled in Ohio Connections Academy’s student newsletter and on the school’s social media platforms. Each month during the school year OCA will recognize students in grades K through 12 who are excelling in the virtual classroom.

“The faculty, staff and members of the board at Ohio Connections Academy are proud to recognize students like Jaden and the commitment they demonstrate to our school and their community,” said OCA Superintendent Marie Hanna. “Each of our Star Students is a leader in the classroom and demonstrates an extraordinary commitment to learning – they truly deserve this recognition.”

Jaden said when his traditional school was closed in 2020 due to COVID and was forced to teach remotely, he discovered that he preferred learning from home and away from the distractions that occur in a traditional classroom. When the school stopped offering online learning the following year, he enrolled in Ohio Connections Academy.

“What I like most about Connections Academy is the ability to do school whenever and wherever in the world I want, as long as I have an internet connection,” Jaden said. “I like the flexibility and the opportunity to take breaks or contact my teachers anytime I need.”

Virtual school is a great fit for a variety of students and each student is unique. Those who attend Ohio 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 consistent, safe learning environment.

For more information about Ohio Connections Academy or to begin the enrollment process, please visit www.OhioConnectionsAcademy.com or call (800) 382-6010.

About Ohio Connections Academy

Ohio Connections Academy (OCA) is a tuition-free, online public school for K–12 public students across the state. Ohio Connections Academy offers a uniquely engaging, high-quality education experience through a safe, social learning environment that helps students learn how they learn best. The combination of state-certified quality teachers, a proven, student-centric school curriculum, unique electives, technology tools, and community experiences empowers students to gain the skills and confidence they need to thrive in a changing world. For more information, call 800-382-6010 or visit www.OhioConnectionsAcademy.com.