South Carolina Connections Academy Student Thankful For Virtual School

From beige walls to the hardwood floors, I thought that this is what made a home. I now comprehend that the people inside, my family, is what really makes my home come alive. A drastic decision made by my family had an everlasting effect. What I did not realize was that this would bring my family closer together. The decision of virtual schooling would unite my family, provide a safe learning environment at home, and help me understand what home really is.

After I finished my fifth grade year, my parents discussed the option of virtual schooling. Mom, the critical thinker of the group, came up with the idea while my dad, the optimist, agreed and anticipated great results. On the other hand, my sister and I had some reservations. Our family toiled and toiled over the decision that would forever change our lives. As I sat down for that dreaded talk with my mom, dad, and sister, I could not believe what I was hearing. The word “virtual school” rang in my head during the conversation. My sister and I were weary of the changes that were about to happen. We didn’t want to leave behind our friends and the familiar atmosphere of public school. It felt like I was playing tug-of-war with my emotions. I contemplated the options in my mind. The thought of less stress during the day made this possibility seem like a dream. Although the nightmares began when I started to think about how I would do in the new learning environment.

The verdict was in, and virtual schooling was the ruling. Three years ago, my family decided to go on this journey that we had never been on before. Early one morning in August 2011, my mom and dad boldly jumped right in and helped my sister and I with our lessons. They provided the necessary support we needed to be successful in our new school adventure. How many parents do you know that would put safety goggles on and dive into help with a science experiment? My parents fit this description perfectly! The close interactions between each member of the family made our bond stronger than ever before. As we encountered problems, we worked through them together. During the first few days of school, I felt like I was sinking in quicksand! I remember struggling, but with my parent’s support I made it through triumphantly. We’ve laughed and cried together through South Carolina Connections Academy. 

After two months of rigorous learning, my family had adjusted to the new school experience. I soon realized that I could keep my same friends and have the benefit of completing my lessons in the safe environment of my home. As I continued to see my friends on a regular basis, we had chances to meet and play competitive games of soccer. The reality hit, and showed me that I could complete my work without the disrupting actions of other students. Now my surroundings were more relaxed. Some days, I even had time to enjoy the great outdoors. There were no more bullies, the popularity games had ended, and the everyday drama subsided. I was no longer in the den with hungry lions trying to devour me, but instead I finally found my safe haven. My parents no longer had to worry about my learning environment, and I finally realized that this was the perfect learning scenario.

The decision to enroll in virtual schooling helped me appreciate this place I call home. Over the course of my three years with South Carolina Connections Academy, I no longer see my home as a place to eat or sleep, but instead a place to learn, explore and, most importantly, have fun with my family. Mom helps keep me on track while Dad is there for support with the occasional joke or two. Virtual schooling has provided many stimulating and innovative opportunities, like interactive lessons and the well-thought-out field trips.

Connections Academy has helped my family value the new learning experiences even more. My sister and I both agree that this was definitely the right decision for our family. We have witnessed many benefits. Our PASS scores have soared upward, we have a better understanding of the material being presented, and there is more time for extracurricular activities! I wake up each morning and face the day with the knowledge that my family is beside me each step of the way.

How would you describe home? Would you say that it is a rectangular box with beige walls, hard wood floors, and pictures hanging on every wall? My definition of home changed when my family decided to try virtual schooling.  Virtual schooling brought my family together in ways that we never thought was possible. The new appreciation of my home has gone beyond the decorations and other material objects. This place I call home is a comfortable and safe place for my family to learn and explore. Some people may not understand, but I consider my family the only part that makes my house truly my home!