South Carolina Online School FAQs
What grades are offered by Heron Virtual Academy of South Carolina (HVASC)?
HVASC offers full-time enrollment for grades 8–12.
HVASC is ideal for students who have had challenges reaching academic success and could benefit from a supportive team-oriented approach to earning a high school diploma. We offer options to adjust school schedules to the lifestyle needs of our students, accelerated pathways to support credit recovery, and postsecondary preparation.
What subjects will my student study?
English/language arts, math, science, and history are the core courses. There are also other options including career prep and credit recovery. Visit our high school curriculum page for more details.
Does HVASC provide textbooks and other instructional materials?
Yes. We provide textbooks and instructional materials needed to complete the program. These books and materials depend on the student’s grade level and the courses they’re enrolled in. High school students receive fewer books and materials than elementary and middle school students.
Can my student work at their own pace?
While all grades have minimum progress and pacing requirements, some advancement and flexible pacing options exist.
My student has life circumstances that require an additional level of flexibility. Can HVASC accommodate their needs?
HVASC staff can work with individual students to tailor coursework, live class requirements, and other assignments as reasonable to fit into a schedule that sets up the student for success.
Will my student have the same graduation opportunities as students in traditional public schools?
Yes. HVASC students are public school students, and they earn a high school diploma identical to any other diploma awarded by public schools in the state of South Carolina. Because HVASC is a recognized public school, our graduates have the same rights and privileges extended to them as any other South Carolina graduates when applying for opportunities at our state and nation’s colleges and universities.
My student is significantly behind academically. How will HVASC help them graduate?
HVASC has a robust, accelerated credit recovery program designed to help students catch up academically, even those significantly behind on high school credits. Our wrap-around support services can also help students develop alternative pathways to graduation based on their individual needs.
How much time do students spend on the computer?
In junior high and high school, much of the school day is online. Students also do hands-on science experiments, read novels, and complete math problems that are done without the computer.
HVASC staff works with students individually to create a schedule, including live class session requirements, tailored to their needs to help set them up for success.
We believe in a balanced approach toward education. Computers help us provide you with effective assessment, planning, and time-management tools. Computers also act as powerful teaching tools that can motivate, stimulate, and inform children about the world around them. They do not, however, replace a solid education. Rather, they help facilitate one. That’s why we use a unique multimedia approach that also includes traditional books, workbooks, and instructional materials.
Do you provide curriculum for students with special needs?
Depending on a student’s IEP, we can tailor the learning experience to meet their needs. To discuss your student’s needs with us, please contact our office, and we will put you in touch with our special education team.
Can you accommodate the accelerated learning needs of my advanced learner?
The beauty of our program is that it is flexible enough to meet children where they are in any given subject and take them where they want to go. Grade placement assessments, completed as part of the enrollment process, allow us to place your student in the appropriate level of curriculum level.
How do students interact socially?
Students spend time with classmates online and through school outings, field trips, and other activities. In addition to school-based clubs, K12 online national clubs help connect students with peers who share similar interests and passions.
Will this program intrude into my home?
There are no home visits as part of the program and no other intrusions into your home. This school was created to help your child obtain a first-class education and serve your family’s needs. If you ever feel that it is not right for your family or your student, you can withdraw at any time.
Can students do extracurricular activities in their resident district?
A state law in South Carolina allows charter school students to participate in district extracurricular activities. Districts may charge charter school students a participation fee. Part-time high school students may participate in the full scope of their resident district or charter school’s offering.
How do I enroll my student?
Visit our How to Enroll section for information on enrolling your student in HVASC.