This award celebrates the achievements of high school students who excel academically. Nationally, only a fraction of students earn this distinction each year, which often leads to additional scholarship opportunities because this award sets them apart in the college admissions process.
To receive this honor, students must demonstrate outstanding performance in standardized testing and advanced coursework, demonstrating their readiness for higher education.
Julia and Dom were recognized for their achievement during an assembly where students and families tuned in virtually to celebrate. Principal Melissa Brandon and PrepNet staff recognized them for their hard work and perseverance. The assembly not only highlighted their accomplishments, but it also inspired classmates to continue striving for excellence in their own academic journeys.
This recognition highlights National Heritage Academies' (NHA®) commitment to preparing students for college and beyond through PrepNet’s rigorous curriculum, dedicated teachers, and the support of Moral Focus™ virtues with the flexibility of online learning.
For senior Julia Acker, PrepNet provided the structure and support she needed to thrive. Julia has been with PrepNet since eighth grade and is graduating with not only her high school diploma, but also her associate degree in computer information systems.
“I can concentrate more at home. I feel safer, and I’ve had the flexibility to take challenging college courses alongside my high school classes,” Julia said.
As a former teacher, Julia’s mom Laura was impressed by the quality of instruction, the level of teacher support, and the fact that PrepNet covers the costs of tuition, books, and college classes. “It’s literally as if they are in a brick-and-mortar school, just at home,” Laura said.
Julia’s PrepNet Experience also included extracurricular activities. She participated in student council, National Honor Society, and Yearbook just to name a few. She credits her teachers and counselors for helping her build confidence and prepare for her next steps. Julia plans to continue her studies at the University of Wisconsin in computer science and hopes to pursue a career in web development.
Senior Dom Post-Petkus also found a home at PrepNet, where they’ve taken challenging classes including AP Biology as a freshman, which prepared them for the rigor of college. Dom is looking toward a future in biology and biomedical studies, with hopes of one day working with Doctors Without Borders.
Dom reflected on the supportive relationships they built with teachers and classmates. “I think that me and my teachers have really close bonds. The coursework taught me how to study properly and prepared me for the rigor of a four-year college.”
Their mom, Cynthia, explained why PrepNet was the right choice. “PrepNet really taught them how to study and how to strive for more. It gave them the foundation they needed to take on challenging coursework and aim high for college.”
For Julia and Dom, the award represents more than test scores it reflects their dedication, the support of their families, and the high-quality learning environment at PrepNet.
Congratulations to Julia and Dom for earning this national award!
Your accomplishments are a testament to your hard work and to the mission of NHA to prepare every child for college, career, and life.
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About PrepNet Virtual Academy
PrepNet Virtual Academy is a tuition-free, online public charter school in Grand Rapids, Michigan, serving students in kindergarten through high school. It is part of the National Heritage Academies (NHA®) network, which includes more than 100 tuition-free, public charter schools serving more than 65,000 students in kindergarten through high school across nine states. For more information, visit nhaschools.com.
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