Heron Virtual Academy of South Carolina (HVASC) is a tuition-free online public school serving students in grades 9-12. We are pleased to announce that, beginning in the 2024-25 school year, HVASC will be expanding its enrollment to include 8th grade students. Authorized by The Charter Institute at Erskine, and staffed by a dedicated team of state-certified teachers and counselors, HVASC offers a personalized approach to learning, delivering a rich, engaging curriculum designed to assist students who seek alternative pathways to graduation.
Our program focuses on students who have experienced challenges reaching academic success. HVASC is ideal for students who could benefit from a supportive, team-oriented approach to stay on track for a high school diploma. We encourage students to grow and learn by exploring their personal interests and participating in alternative pathways to graduation. We offer options to adjust school schedules to the lifestyle needs of our students, accelerated pathways to support credit recovery, and postsecondary preparation. Our virtual academy has designed educational supports that both enhance the learning experience and provide each student with strategies and techniques to help meet their unique needs.
HVASC prioritizes student well-being and success by offering robust support services. Our team of dedicated educators, counselors, and support staff work collaboratively to provide academic guidance, career counseling, and mental health resources. This holistic approach ensures that students are supported in all aspects of their education journey and have the tools and skills they need to succeed in both their personal and professional lives.
We are dedicated to preparing students for the workforce through a comprehensive career readiness program. Students have access to career and technical education (CTE) courses, internships, and industry certifications that will help them discover and explore potential careers in Business and Marketing. Students can also earn college credits while still in high school, giving them a head start in their state and potentially saving them thousands of dollars in college tuition costs. This hands-on approach ensures that students graduate with the practical skills and real-world experience necessary to excel in their chosen fields.
Recognizing the importance of emotional intelligence and well-being, our program integrates social-emotional learning (SEL) and important life skills into the daily curriculum. Students develop essential life skills such as self-management, social awareness, critical thinking, relationship skills, communication skills, and responsible decision-making. These competencies help students navigate the challenges of both school and life, fostering resilience and a growth mindset.
As a virtual school, we leverage cutting-edge technology to create an engaging and flexible learning environment. Our platform allows for personalized learning experiences, where students can progress at their own pace and receive support tailored to their individual needs. This flexibility is especially beneficial for students who require an alternative to traditional brick-and-mortar schools. Our school fosters a strong sense of community through interactive online classes, group projects, and extracurricular activities. Students have opportunities to collaborate with their peers, participate in virtual clubs, and engage in community service projects. These experiences help build a sense of belonging and connectedness, even in a virtual setting.
We are proud of our students' accomplishments and the positive impact of our program. Our graduates are well-equipped for success in college, careers, and life; advancing to pursue higher education, secure employment in their chosen fields, and contribute positively to their communities.
About Heron Academy of South Carolina
Heron Academy of South Carolina (HVA) is an online alternative education campus of The Charter Institute at Erskine, serving students across the state of South Carolina. HVA is tuition-free, giving parents and families the choice to access the engaging curriculum and tools provided by Stride, Inc., the nation’s leading provider of proprietary K-12 curriculum and online education programs. For more information about HVA, visit hvasc.k12.com.
