Another online education program is starting up in Wyoming this fall, giving families even more options for educating their students.

Jackson Hole Connections Academy was recently authorized as a distance education program in Teton County School District 1. Pending final approval from the state, the school will begin enrolling students this fall.

Superintendent Pam Shea said the district has offered online courses for years. The new academy is already drawing the interest of families, she added.

"It's just, I feel, another service we can offer in education to meet the needs of kids," Shea said.

Wyoming students do not pay tuition for taking courses through the academy. The curriculum will be provided through Connections Academy, and Wyoming-based educators will teach a majority of the courses.

Scott Crisp, principal of Jackson Hole High School, said the academy is part of a shift in education focused on using technology. Crisp is also an administrator working with the academy.

"Twenty years from now, none of us can project what schools are going to be like," Crisp said. "I believe we're going to be able to provide an option for any student anywhere in the state for a quality education."

Jackson Hole High School Assistant Principal Jim Rooks is also working on the academy. Rooks said families in Alta, south of Jackson in northern Lincoln County, are among the many people who are interested in joining the academy.

"We're receiving a tremendous interest from lots of different groups," he said. "The angle is that what we're fundamentally trying to do is radically expand education opportunities and choice for all Wyoming students."

To learn more about Jackson Hole Connections Academy, log on to connectionsacademy.com or call 733-2704.

Reach education reporter Jasa Santos at (307) 266-0593 or at jasa.santos@trib.com. Read her education blog at tribtown.trib.com/JasaSantos/blog.