Compass Academy Network (CAN) hosted its public graduation ceremony on Friday at the Cassville Performing Arts Center, celebrating the students’ achievements with families, educators and mentors.  

Compass delivers high-impact, hands-on learning experiences designed to help rural middle school students build the skills and confidence to succeed in school, work and life. The free four-week, full-day summer program offers courses in leadership, creative expression, civic engagement, and personal development, all at no cost to families. Students also receive meals, transportation, materials, and a Walmart gift card upon successful completion of the program.  

Compass also invests in the next generation of rural educators through its Peer Mentor program with paid, hands-on teaching experience for local college students preparing for careers in education and community service.

“Our mission at Compass Academy goes far beyond traditional learning — we focus on empowering young people to recognize their own worth and capabilities,” said Debra Humphreys, founder and CEO of Compass Academy Network. “Compass offers the opportunity for students to develop intellectually, personally, and as active leaders in their community, while enjoying a memorable summer and building lasting friendships.”

Compass Academy Network is a nonprofit founded in 2019, that supports rural education by providing free summer enrichment programs for middle school students (grades 6-9) and by developing a pipeline of committed and qualified educators in rural communities.    

CAN’s 2026 summer program marks significant growth, now with nine locations across Missouri, Kansas and Oklahoma and including nearly 420 students from nearly 65 schools. In addition, nearly 30 college students will receive paid internships gaining valuable teaching experience, alongside over 40 experienced local educators.    

Applications are still open  for the July 2026 Compass summer session in Joplin, MO.

For more information, people may contact [email protected] or learn more about Compass  at www.compassacademynetwork.org.