How Remi Gardner Supports Students at Heron Virtual

When Remi Gardner first learned about Heron Virtual Academy of South Carolina (HVASC), she knew she had found the place she was meant to be. 

“I love the idea of helping the students who fell through the cracks and being able to support the families who need it most,” she said. “That’s why I went into the counseling field in the first place.” 

Armed with a master’s degree in school counseling, Ms. Gardner joined HVASC in January 2025 as a registrar, willing to take any position just to get her foot in the door. “I only took the registrar role because I wanted to work for Heron so badly,” she laughed. “My plan was just to make myself known, build relationships, and eventually move into the role I was actually qualified for.” 

That plan worked. By May, she transitioned into her current role as Student Resource Coordinator (SRC), a position that perfectly combined her counseling background with her heart for service. 

Wearing Many Hats 

Ms. Gardner describes her position as one that “wears a lot of hats.” On any given day, she might be conducting a safety conference for a student, helping a family secure internet access, or connecting a parent to housing or mental health resources. 

“I tell our families, ‘You might meet me today because I’m holding a safety conference, but next week you might hear from me about internet services or a counseling referral,’” she said. “I want them to know I’m not just one role. I’m someone they can reach out to for help in many ways.” 

That personal, compassionate approach has made Ms. Gardner a trusted support for students and families alike. “I can only help those who want to be helped,” she explained, “but I always make sure they know I’m here and what I can do for them.” 

Creating Safe Spaces for Students 

One of the ways Ms. Gardner connects with students is through small group programs she co-leads with another Student Resource Coordinator at HVASC. 

The three groups include: 

• Mental Health and Wellness – open to all high school students 

• Pregnant and Parenting – a supportive space for students balancing school and family life 

• Grief and Loss – for students coping with the death of a loved one 

The Mental Health and Wellness group has become especially popular, with as many as 50 students dropping in. “Some come to learn coping skills, others just want to socialize – and that’s okay,” Ms. Gardner said. “We meet them where they are.” 

The Pregnant and Parenting group is smaller and more intimate. “We have a student who kind of leads the conversation,” she said. “She shares her story to make others feel comfortable sharing theirs. It’s beautiful to see that peer connection.” 

The Grief and Loss group is still in development as they work through logistics and parent permissions, but Ms. Gardner and her team remain committed to making it a resource for families in need. 

Why Virtual Learning Works for Our Families 

For Ms. Gardner, the heart of HVASC’s mission is flexibility and individualized support. 

“We meet students and families exactly where they’re at,” she explained. “If a student comes to us in ninth grade but should be in eleventh, we say, ‘Okay, let’s get you to tenth by December.’ It’s really what you put in – you get out.” 

Heron’s virtual model allows students to progress at their own pace, whether they need to catch up or move ahead. Teachers offer live sessions and one-on-one office hours so students can get extra help when needed. 

“In a traditional school, you might have one 42-minute math class that flies by and leaves you more confused,” Ms. Gardner said. “Here, you can meet with your teacher one-on-one, during the school day, and really understand the material. You don’t need outside tutoring – you just need to ask.” 

A Supportive Environment for Everyone 

Ms. Gardner also appreciates how Heron supports not just students, but staff. 

“I’ve never been treated so well in a workplace,” she said. “I feel respected, appreciated, and seen every single day.” 

That sense of belonging and mutual respect creates a ripple effect. “Our staff are comfortable and cared for, so we’re better able to care for our students. It’s a really great environment – for students, for families, and for us.” 

A Counselor Who Truly Cares 

For Ms. Gardner, helping students isn’t just her job – it’s her purpose. 

“At Heron, I get to do what I love every day – helping students who need someone in their corner,” she said. “That’s what this work is all about.” 

Is Online Learning Right for You? 

If you’re interested in learning more about Heron Virtual Academy of South Carolina, please visit hvasc.k12.com. 

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