Texas Connections Academy Celebrates Rockwall County Graduates, Class Secures More Than $11 Million in Scholarships

ROCKWALL, TX (June 30, 2026) — Several Rockwall County students were among the 1,250 graduates honored during Texas Connections Academy’s commencement ceremony at the University of Houston Fertitta Center on June 5.

The Class of 2026 collectively secured more than $11 million in scholarships and awards while celebrating the completion of their high school education through the tuition-free online public school.

Rockwall County graduates recognized include:

• Logan Campbell
• Kalei Jones
• Hannah Murphy
• Aubriana Van Parys
• Christian Wilbanks

*Not all local graduates may be listed due to privacy preferences.

Texas Connections Academy’s Class of 2026 consists of graduates from cities and towns across the state, such as Corpus Christi, Dallas, The Woodlands, Waco and Rockwall County, who have benefited from a high-quality online education. Among this year’s graduates, 51 percent plan to attend two- or four-year colleges or universities, such as Boston College, Cornell University, Hawaii Pacific University, Texas A&M University, the University of Notre Dame and the University of Texas. Additionally, 17 percent plan to enter the workforce after graduation, while others plan to pursue vocational training, performing arts pathways, serve in the military or take a gap year.

“This graduating class is truly something special. The Class of 2026 has demonstrated strong academic achievement and perseverance, and the more than $11 million in scholarship offers only scratches the surface of what this group is capable of,” said Darla Gardner, executive director of Texas Connections Academy. “I have no doubt they are going to do extraordinary things, and I couldn’t be more excited to see what comes next for each and every one of them.”

The commencement ceremony featured remarks from Gardner and valedictorian Pinar Yilmaz of Houston, who encouraged her fellow students that when things might not go as expected to remember, “To trust the process, even when it’s uncertain. To stay present, even when we’re focused on the future. And to have confidence in ourselves even when things don’t go as planned.”

Also recognized for outstanding academic achievement was salutatorian Sarah Odibat of Cedar Park.

Texas Connections Academy offers a comprehensive virtual school experience that keeps students motivated and engaged with a strong circle of support and a deep sense of belonging. The school’s team of supportive and experienced educators, specially trained in online instruction, establish meaningful connections with students, helping them achieve their full potential and reach their goals. Parents and caregivers are involved in the learning journey as their child’s Learning Coach, serving as mentors and guides throughout the school day.

Texas Connections Academy continues to prepare students for life after graduation through its established College and Career Readiness program. Available to middle and high school students, the program blends core academic coursework with industry-aligned, career-focused pathways, including information technology, business, health sciences and marketing. Students also build durable skills such as leadership, critical thinking and teamwork while gaining access to career exploration and industry networking opportunities that help them build confidence, make connections and clarify their future goals.

Enrollment for the 2026-2027 school year is open for students in grades 3-12. Families interested in Texas Connections Academy are encouraged to attend an online information session to learn more, ask questions and discover if virtual school is the right fit for their student. For more information, call 1-833-591-0251 or visit TexasConnectionsAcademy.com.

Press release and photo submitted by Michele Voelkening, The PMA Agency. Edited for publication by Blue Ribbon News.

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