At Grand Canyon Private Academy (GCPA), a premier virtual private school, students like Reese are redefining what high school success looks like. As Reese prepares to attend her high school graduation, she does so already holding something few high school students can claim: an associate’s degree in general education.
Originally from Jamaica and now living in Arizona, Reese joined GCPA three years ago in search of a more flexible and empowering learning experience. “I wanted to stay in a homeschool-style environment but still access everything I needed academically,” she said. “GCPA gave me the structure, flexibility, and support to chase my goals.”
A Flexible Virtual Education Built Around Student Goals
GCPA’s online private school model enabled Reese to shape her schedule around athletics, leadership opportunities, and ultimately, her pursuit of dual enrollment. In her early high school years, she juggled swimming, gymnastics, and volleyball while completing coursework online. As her academic ambitions intensified, she shifted focus, enrolling in college-level courses through GCPA’s dual enrollment partnerships.
“I started with just a few classes, but I realized I loved the challenge and the structure of college coursework,” said Reese. “I eventually decided to commit fully and earn my associate’s degree before graduating high school.”
That’s exactly what she did.
Through a combination of partnerships—including programs at Baker College, Saint Leo University, and ultimately Southeastern University (SEU)—Reese completed a rigorous college curriculum while managing her high school requirements. She officially graduated with her associate’s degree in general education from SEU before finishing her senior year at GCPA.
“I still don’t think it’s fully sunk in,” she said. “Being surrounded by college graduates—bachelor’s, master’s, even doctorates—at my college ceremony was surreal. I walked away knowing that the hard work was worth it.”
Support That Makes a Difference
Reese credits GCPA’s dual enrollment program, powered in part by Acadeum, for helping her explore real-world pathways and develop college-level skills. From personalized academic planning sessions to ongoing course selection support, GCPA’s team was with her every step of the way.
“I had full control over the classes I took and how I structured my semesters, but I never felt alone,” said Reese. “The staff really guided me, reviewed course options with me, and helped me stay on track. It was a truly collaborative experience.”
Even during busy semesters, GCPA offered accommodations like adjusting class attendance requirements so she could stay focused on her college work. Teachers remained accessible and encouraging, providing academic support as needed. “I didn’t always take the help, because I wanted to grow my independence,” Reese admitted. “But it meant a lot knowing they were there.”
Leadership and Community in a Virtual Environment
In addition to academic achievements, Reese also served as Student Government President, playing a key role in planning GCPA’s in-person graduation at the Grand Canyon scheduled for Friday, May 30. “It’s been so rewarding to see everything come together,” she said. “We wanted to make this celebration meaningful for every senior—and doing it at the Grand Canyon is something we’ll never forget.”
Despite being an online student, Reese stayed actively engaged in school life, organizing events, running spirit weeks, and launching student-led initiatives to keep her peers connected. “GCPA’s virtual school community is real. If you put in the effort, you can build strong connections,” she said.
Looking Ahead
Reese will begin her next academic chapter at the University of Arizona this fall, where she’ll study architecture through the W.A. Franke Honors College and the CAPLA (College of Architecture, Planning and Landscape Architecture). With an associate’s degree already completed, she enters college with a head start—and a deep sense of confidence.
“My experience at GCPA taught me that if you stay focused and use the resources around you, you can accomplish more than you think,” she said. “This virtual private school gave me every tool I needed to succeed.”
Why Families Choose Grand Canyon Private Academy
Reese’s success story showcases the value of a private online school experience that combines flexibility, academic rigor, and real-world preparation. From dual enrollment opportunities to a personalized learning environment, GCPA equips students with the skills and support they need to thrive in college and beyond.
Reese also received Arizona’s Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA), which gave her family the freedom to choose an education that aligned with her goals and learning style. With the ESA, she accessed a high-quality virtual private school experience at GCPA and participated in academic programs that helped her graduate high school with a college degree already in hand.
Want to learn how the ESA program can help your student thrive? Explore your options with ESA funding here.
Whether you’re a student aiming to get ahead, explore your passions, or find your ideal learning environment, Grand Canyon Private Academy could be the path that launches your future—just like it did for Reese. To learn more about GCPA click here.
