More Than 6,250 Students Return to South Carolina Connections Academy for the New School Year
Annual Parent Satisfaction Survey highlights strong family engagement, supportive teachers, and student progress at the statewide tuition-free online public school
Columbia, S.C. (Aug. 6, 2026) – South Carolina Connections Academy, a tuition-free online public school serving more than 6,250 students in grades K-12 across the state, has welcomed students back for the 2026-27 school year. Now celebrating its 19th school year, the school continues to provide a personalized virtual learning experience that combines rigorous academics, dedicated teacher support, and strong family engagement to help students reach their full potential.
“The start of a new school year brings a lot of excitement and possibility,” said Josh Kitchens, Executive Director of South Carolina Connections Academy. “Every student comes to school with their own strengths, interests, and goals, and it’s a privilege to be part of their journey. We’re excited to welcome both new and returning families and look forward to partnering with them throughout the year as we support students in thriving both in and beyond the classroom.”
Parents Report Positive School Experiences
As students begin the new school year, South Carolina Connections Academy is also celebrating strong results from its annual Parent Satisfaction Survey, an independent survey that allows families to share feedback about their school experience.
According to the 2026 Parent Satisfaction Survey results:
98% of parents agree the South Carolina Connections Academy program gives them greater opportunity to be more involved with their child's education
98% of parents agree their child’s teachers at South Carolina Connections Academy are supportive
98% of parents feel their children will be successful in their plans after high school
97% of parents feel their child is making good progress at South Carolina Connections Academy
96% of parents would recommend South Carolina Connections Academy
Supporting Students Through Personalized Learning
South Carolina Connections Academy provides a comprehensive virtual school experience that combines state-certified teachers, a rigorous curriculum, and a supportive learning environment to help students learn in ways that work best for them. The school's team of experienced educators, specially trained in online instruction, establish meaningful connections with students keeping them motivated and engaged to help them achieve their full potential and reach their goals. Parents and caregivers are involved in the learning journey as their child's Learning Coach, serving as their mentor and guide throughout the school day.
South Carolina Connections Academy students learn in a virtual environment that allows them to pursue their unique goals while balancing academics with extracurricular activities, personal interests, and family responsibilities. Along with core classes and a wide variety of electives, South Carolina Connections Academy offers gifted and talented, honors, special education, and Advanced Placement® courses, as well as the opportunity for dual enrollment. Through virtual clubs, in-person events and field trips, and regular interaction with teachers and classmates, students also have opportunities to build friendships and feel connected to their school community.
Preparing Students for College, Career, and Life
South Carolina Connections Academy continues to prepare students for life after graduation through its established College and Career Readiness offering. Available to middle and high school students, the program combines core academic coursework with career-focused learning opportunities that help students explore their interests and connect learning to future goals.
Students can explore pathways in high-demand fields such as information technology, business, health sciences, and marketing while developing durable skills including leadership, critical thinking, communication, and teamwork. The program also provides career exploration experiences and industry exposure that help students find direction, confidence, and connections to succeed in life after high school.
Enrolling for the 2026-27 School Year
Enrollment for the 2026-27 school year is still open. Families interested in learning more about the South Carolina Connections Academy’s supportive virtual learning approach are encouraged to attend an online information session to learn more, ask questions and discover if virtual school is the right fit for their student. For more information about South Carolina Connections Academy, please visit www.SouthCarolinaConnectionsAcademy.com or call 1-833-591-0251.
About South Carolina Connections Academy
South Carolina Connections Academy is a unique, tuition-free, online public school for K-12 students across the state. True to our name, we believe meaningful connections drive better academic outcomes, so we build a strong circle of support that unites students, families, and educators. We create a high-quality educational experience that helps keep students engaged in a safe learning environment. Beyond academics, our teachers focus on building fundamental life skills, partnering with families to help students learn how they learn best. Here, students gain the skills needed to thrive in the real world by becoming resourceful and resilient. For more information, call 1-833-591-0251 or visit www.SouthCarolinaConnectionsAcademy.com.