Finding Flexibility, Independence and a Future Passion at Cyber Academy of South Carolina

As part of a military family that has moved across six states, Rylee has learned how to adapt to change. Now a sophomore at Cyber Academy of South Carolina (CASC), she’s found something that supports both her education and her future goals: flexibility, independence and opportunities to explore her passions. 

Rylee and her family moved to the Midlands when her father – who served in the military for 18 years – was stationed there. Before enrolling at CASC in 2024, Rylee attended traditional schools and briefly tried a hybrid learning model. 

“The system just didn’t work for us,” her mom shared. “Moving to online public school was a better of an option for us.” 

Building Confidence Through Independence 

For Rylee, virtual learning quickly became a better fit. 

The flexibility has also helped her balance school with other priorities, including violin lessons – an activity she’s enjoyed for the past couple of years. 

More importantly, learning online has helped Rylee thrive academically. 

“I think I’ve improved, because I’m able to work at my own pace now,” she said. 

Her mom noticed the difference, too. 

“She struggled a little bit in the traditional classroom because they were pushing everything so fast,” she said. “She had some testing anxiety in school, so this has really been a huge positive for her.” 

Having support from teachers has also made an impact. Rylee highlighted strong communication with instructors, while her mom specifically praised specific teachers who have consistently supported her. 

“Everybody has been great to get back to you,” her mom said. “We’ve appreciated everybody that we’ve worked with. We haven’t had a bad experience yet.” 

Growing Independence and Preparing for the Future 

Beyond academics, CASC has helped Rylee build important life skills. 

“I think it’s helping me with independence,” she said. “I’m doing a lot of things on my own.” 

That independence is already helping her pursue an exciting career goal. 

Rylee has long been interested in forensic science and hopes to eventually work as a CSI investigator or coroner. This summer, she’ll take an exciting step toward that dream after being accepted into the Richland County Coroner’s Cadet Program – a two-week experience where students explore forensic technologies, simulations, fingerprint analysis, and more. 

Her interest grew after hearing a guest speaker during school. 

“The interest has been there for a while,” Rylee said. “But after hearing about the program, I told my mom, ‘This is something I really want to do.’” 

For a family constantly on the move, CASC has provided stability while allowing Rylee to discover who she is and where she wants to go. 

“Flexibility is the best part about it,” her mom said. 

And for Rylee, that flexibility is helping turn future dreams into real opportunities. 

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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