"I first learned about South Carolina Connections Academy through a friend who was teaching there and recommended the program. We had been looking for other options because Nathan has learning disabilities. Nathan was attending a private school that focused on college prep at the high school level. Traditional public school was not going to be a great option because Nathan did not know anyone. Connections Academy was a happy medium because Nathan could build self-esteem in a comfortable learning environment. He has matured a lot throughout the school year and has taken ownership of his responsibilities—his grades reflect that. As a Learning Coach, I have not had to micromanage Nathan. He has his own learning space where he can doodle or step away to refocus and regroup when needed, and then he can come back to schoolwork when he is refreshed. The flexibility has been great for Nathan, and we have built a great comradery.