![Image of Laura S.](/content/dam/pvs/ca/portals/75/images/student-spotlights/23-24/march/profile-SCCA-Laura.jpg)
Student Spotlight: Laura S.
Laura, a recent graduate of South Carolina Connections Academy, wrote a comprehensive curriculum for educators about the new “988” system — a nationwide three-digit dialing code for Mental Health Crisis and Suicide Prevention. For this remarkable accomplishment, she received the Girl Scout Gold Award, the most prestigious honor in Girl Scouting.
Student Spotlight
Student Spotlight: Laura S.
There is a nationwide crisis support system to anyone who dials “988”. Anyone in the U.S. who is having suicidal thoughts or feeling distressed can speak with a trained counselor anytime — by phone, text, or chat. Since its 2022 launch, “988” has provided help to millions of Americans, right when they needed it.
![Image of Laura S.](/content/dam/pvs/ca/portals/75/images/student-spotlights/23-24/march/modal-SCCA-Laura.jpg)
Educators are critically important in crisis prevention, because of their daily contact with children, tweens, and teens, in particular.
However, educators required guidance and materials to introduce “988” to middle school and older students. That’s when Laura, recognizing an unmet need, developed a comprehensive curriculum for educators of all types to explain the system, including when to use it, how to use it, and how it is different from older hotlines and crisis management programs.
Laura has been widely recognized for her effort and achievement. The Girl Scouts honored her with the Girl Scout Gold Award, the organization’s highest accolade, and South Carolina Connections Academy received acknowledgement from Laura. The school’s flexibility “gave [her] time to attend and speak at events for the mental health causes [she] supports.”
Laura currently attends the University of South Carolina – Aiken, where she is majoring in marketing and graphic design.
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Change is everywhere. At South Carolina Connections Academy, we’re helping students see change as an opportunity—so they can thrive in the world that lies ahead.
Our tuition-free online public school offers students in grades K–12 a safe, engaging environment where they can learn in the way that works best for them. Not only will your child gain the knowledge and confidence they need for assessments like the SC READY, they’ll build fundamental life skills they need to meet tomorrow’s challenges. As their learning coach, you’ll be by their side, supporting them along the way.
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4th Grade Plant Structures - Sample Lessons
4th Grade Science
Plant Structures
Connections Academy 4th Grade Online Learning Unit | Plant Structures
2 min video
In this unit, Connections Academy online students explore how plants have adapted to their environments, diversifying and changing to thrive in all kinds of locations. Guided through a series of individual lessons that use dynamic text, video and audio, students enhance their critical thinking skills and their ability to make connections in the world.
3rd Grade Social Studies - Sample Lessons
3rd Grade Social Studies
The Environment
Connections Academy 3rd Grade Online Learning Unit | The Environment
2 min video
In this unit, Connections Academy online students take a virtual journey around the world, learning how geography and climate come together to create our environment. Guided through a series of individual lessons that use dynamic text, video and audio, students increase their understanding of science and why it matters to their life today and the world of tomorrow.
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