South Carolina Connections Academy Celebrates the Graduating Class of 2026
More than 700 seniors from across the state graduate from leading tuition-free online school, earning more than $4.1 million in scholarships
Columbia, S.C. (May 27, 2026) – South Carolina Connections Academy, a tuition free, online public school serving K-12 students, celebrated the achievements of its Class of 2026, with more than 700 seniors graduating prepared to take the next step in their academic and professional journeys.
To mark this milestone, the school hosted in-person graduation ceremonies on May 27, 2026, with celebrations taking place across three locations: the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, the Charleston Convention Center in North Charleston, and the Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium.
Each ceremony brought together students, families, and staff to celebrate this important achievement. The program featured a recorded message from Greer-based motivational speaker Jeremiah Dew, along with a special compilation video highlighting the Class of 2026’s top ten graduates, who shared words of wisdom.
Graduation Quotes from South Carolina Connections Academy
“Graduation is a celebration of the dedication, resilience, and accomplishments of our Class of 2026,” said Josh Kitchens, executive director of South Carolina Connections Academy. “Each of our graduates has taken a unique path to reach this moment, and we are incredibly proud of how they have grown. We look forward to seeing the impact they will make as they pursue their goals with confidence.”
South Carolina Connections Academy’s Class of 2026 consists of graduates from many cities and towns across the state, including Charleston, Lexington, Myrtle Beach and more. Members of the graduating class are pursuing a variety of paths after graduation, with 65% planning to attend two- or four-year colleges or universities and 19% planning to enter the workforce. The graduates were collectively awarded over $4.1 million in scholarship funds.
Students at South Carolina Connections Academy benefit from a flexible, personalized learning environment that allows them to balance academics with personal passions, career interests, and life commitments. For many graduates, this approach has been key to their success both inside and outside the classroom.
Rylie Carter’s journey with South Carolina Connections Academy began when he enrolled as a kindergartner, and now he proudly celebrates his graduation as a member of the Class of 2026. Reflecting on his experience, Rylie shared, “As a student at the school, I not only received an invaluable education but had the flexibility to expand on subjects that interested me the most. The support and availability of the teachers helped me grow in the areas I was phenomenal at and provided extra help when I needed it. I have made friends throughout the state of South Carolina and developed lasting relationships that I will carry into my college career. South Carolina Connections Academy has made a lasting impact on my life and I’m forever grateful.”
South Carolina Connections Academy offers a comprehensive virtual school experience that keeps students motivated and engaged with a strong circle of support and a deep sense of belonging. The school's team of supportive and experienced educators, specially trained in online instruction, establish meaningful connections with students, helping 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 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 blends core academic coursework with industry aligned, career-focused pathways, including IT, business, health sciences, and marketing. Students also build durable skills such as leadership, critical thinking, and teamwork, while gaining access to career exploration and industry networking opportunities that help them build confidence, make connections, and clarify their future goals.
Enrollment for the 2026-2027 school year is open for students in grades K-12. Families interested in learning more about South Carolina Connections Academy are encouraged to attend an online information session to explore the program, ask questions, and see if a virtual learning environment is the right fit for their student.
About South Carolina Connections Academy
South Carolina Connections Academy is a unique, tuition-free, online public school for K-12 students. 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. Authorized under state law by the Charter Institute at Erskine, 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. South Carolina Connections Academy is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS CASI), an accrediting division of Cognia, formerly AdvancED. For more information, call 1-833-591-0251.