Pair of Kings County students graduate from statewide online school

Included in the commencement ceremonies were two Kings County students: Natalie Cornelius and Maurice Shontez Whitted. The two – along with their other fellow graduates – collectively received $491,000 in scholarship funds.

The virtual school held a Northern California commencement ceremony at San Joaquin Delta College on June 20 and a Southern California commencement ceremony at the OC Fair & Events Pacific Amphitheater on June 23. School administrators, teachers, and families came together to celebrate the Class of 2022 at the school’s first in-person commencement celebrations since 2019. 

California Connections Academy’s Class of 2022 consists of graduates from all over California, including Bakersfield, Calimesa, Fremont, Los Angeles, and more. Among the graduating class, 66% plan to attend two or four-year colleges or universities, 12% plan to enter the workforce, and 5 percent plan to attend technical or vocational school.

This year the graduating class earned more than $491,000 in scholarship funds and college acceptances to esteemed institutions, including the University of California, Los Angeles, University of California, Berkeley, Columbia University, Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, New York University, Stanford University, and Yale University, among others. 

“We’re beyond proud of our graduating Class of 2022 for their hard work and commitment to their educational journey,” said Dr. Richie Romero, executive director of California Connections Academy. “Our graduating class is full of bright individuals, and I have no doubt that they will make lasting, positive marks on the world using the skills and knowledge they’ve earned while at California Connections Academy.”

Providing first-class online learning expertise since 2004, California Connections Academy is comprised of six schools authorized to operate in different geographic regions across the state and currently serves more than 7,400 students in California. The virtual school has an established history of expertise in the digital learning model and provides high-quality education designed by experts in online learning.

California Connections Academy’s high school curriculum offers advanced courses, including University of California “A-G” courses, NCAA core courses, and career-oriented electives. Students also have access to socialization opportunities to help foster meaningful connections with their peers. The school offers optional student clubs, field trips, festivals, college tours, and more throughout the school year. 

Families interested in learning more about California Connections Academy and the enrollment process are welcome to attend an online information session. For more information about California Connections Academy, call 1(800) 382-6010 or visit the school’s website.