MTS Minnesota Connections Academy, a tuition-free K-12 online public school program, will host a free information session for prospective parents and students 6:30-8 p.m. Tuesday at the Holiday Inn Austin Conference Center, 1701 Fourth St. NW in Austin.

Families will have an opportunity to speak one-on-one with academy faculty, explore the school’s individualized learning approach and see its curriculum. Families can also get to know its technology-enhanced learning environment and learn about the enrollment process. For more information, visit www.connectionsacademy.com or call 800-382-6010. Real time online sessions hosted by a staff member are also available.

Connections Academy staff encourage families considering an online public school experience to attend an information session in-person or online because virtual education may not be a good fit for some.

“Attending a virtual school requires a strong commitment of parental involvement in a child’s education,” said Melissa Gould, principal at MTS Minnesota Connections Academy. “During our information sessions, we let families know exactly what they can expect in a virtual school setting, as well as what it takes to succeed. Having a clear understanding of how it all works is essential for students to thrive.”

The program meets the needs of students and their families looking for a non-traditional public school option. For example, they may learn at a different pace from their peers, need more individualized instruction or live in an isolated rural setting.

MTS Minnesota Connections Academy operates out of St. Paul. Students work with state-certified teachers via email, live online lessons, text-based curriculum, webcasts, telephone conversations and more, while an adult “learning coach” monitors progress. Connections Academy provides personalized education that combines a proven curriculum, unique technology tools, and an extensive collection of electives, clubs and community experiences to create academic and emotional success for students.