The organization, whose proprietary online learning platform, curriculum and instructional services are used by schools and districts in more than 30 states, now occupies four floors of the Bunte Candy Factory Building, 1 E Sheridan Ave., after adding 9,000 square feet to its lease.

“Parents and students in Oklahoma and across the country are increasingly turning to online education for quality instruction customized to each student's individual learning style, whether they are looking for a comprehensive virtual school or online classes to supplement their local offerings and school districts,” said Jeffrey A. Elliott, president of Advanced Academics. “Our expanded home office will help us to better serve the thousands of middle and high school students who depend upon us for their education.”

Advanced Academics started in Bricktown's Kingman Building five years ago — a history noted by Gov. Mary Fallin.

“Many of the largest job-creating companies in Oklahoma were actually started in Oklahoma by aspiring entrepreneurs with an idea to make something better,” Fallin said. “That is the case with Advanced Academics. In a few short years, this company has become a national leader in the field of online education. Today, they continue to excel and grow from their home in Oklahoma City's Bricktown District, where they are adding dozens of great jobs every year and contributing to the vibrancy of this unique area.”

Advanced Academics moved its instructional staff, principals and assistant principals to the seventh floor — the last vacant space left in the century-old building that was remodeled into offices in 2009. Chuck Ainsworth, the building developer, noted the expansion leaves the seven-story building fully leased.

The company's previous space is being redesigned to co-locate related departments, add an IT build room and create a video production facility equipped with a green screen, video camera and lighting equipment for the creation of instructional videos. Lobbies on each floor are being updated with artwork and video monitors.

“Oklahoma boasts a vibrant and diverse business community, where homegrown technology firms like Advanced Academics are taking root, thriving and creating jobs despite today's challenging economic climate,” said Dave Lopez, Oklahoma secretary of commerce. “At the Department of Commerce, our job is to ensure that Advanced Academics and organizations like it have the support they need to flourish here in Oklahoma.”