Finding His Voice: How One Student Balances School, Music and Creativity

For Oliver, a junior at Cyber Academy of South Carolina (CASC), virtual learning has created the space he needs to pursue both his academic interests and his artistic passions. 

His journey to virtual school began several years ago when his family started considering educational options that would be the best fit long term. Oliver attended a traditional school through elementary school, but when it came time for middle school, his mom and learning coach, Kelly, began exploring alternatives. 

“We knew we were going to have to pursue something different,” Kelly said. “When we looked at virtual options, CASC’s enrollment process really stood out to us. It just felt like the right fit.” 

Six years later, Oliver says the model works well for him academically and personally. 

“I still feel challenged in my classes every day,” Oliver said. “But the partially asynchronous schedule really allows me to pursue my interests outside of school while staying connected with my teachers and classmates.” 

A Passion for Music Takes Center Stage 

When he’s not studying, Oliver spends much of his time immersed in music. He is very involved in his church choir, where he performs with both the boys and young men choir and the adult choir. 

His musical journey was inspired in part by his mother, who has served as a staff singer at the cathedral for many years. 

“Music has always been a big part of our lives,” Kelly said. “Watching Oliver grow as a musician has been incredibly rewarding.” 

The Anglican choral tradition requires significant musicianship, including reading music, sight-reading and learning new pieces each week. Despite joining the choir at age 15 – later than many singers in the program – Oliver quickly rose to the challenge. 

“Within the last year and a half, he’s learned music theory and sight reading at a level that took me until college to achieve,” Kelly said. 

Oliver credits both dedication and his schedule for helping him grow. 

“I sing at rehearsals multiple times a week,” he said. “Then I also spend a lot of time at home studying the music, so I’m prepared.” 

Opening Doors for the Future 

While music has become a major passion, Oliver is also exploring a variety of academic interests as he prepares for life after high school. 

“I’m trying to open as many doors as I possibly can,” he said. “That way, when I decide exactly what I want to do, I’ll be ready for it.” 

At CASC, he’s working to complete a computer programming pathway and is exploring digital design courses. He also enjoys math-based subjects and recently completed Honors Pre-Calculus before moving on to Honors Physics. 

“I really like problem solving,” Oliver said. “There’s something satisfying about working through an equation and knowing you’ve found the correct answer.” 

Beyond academics, Oliver stays involved in the CASC community as secretary of the Cyber Sound Waves music club, a member of the National Honor Society, and a participant in the school’s art club. 

For Kelly, seeing her son balance school, music and extracurriculars has reinforced their decision to choose virtual learning. 

“Where there is Wi-Fi, there can be school,” she said with a laugh. “That has allowed Oliver to pursue opportunities like choir camp and rehearsals while still staying on top of his education.” 

For Oliver, that balance has helped him discover new passions and continue finding – and using – his voice along the way. 

Is Online Learning Right for You? 

Take control of your education with school choice! Explore Cyber Academy of South Carolina and discover how our flexible online programs can empower your child to thrive, graduate early, and achieve their goals sooner. Click here to get started today! 

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