Cyber Academy of South Carolina Junior Excels Thanks to Virtual Learning

For Konner, a high school junior at Cyber Academy of South Carolina (CASC), education isn’t just about completing assignments or following the usual path. Thanks to the supportive environment at CASC, he’s been able to explore his interests, pursue dual enrollment, travel for competitive archery, and even begin building a career in welding – all before graduating high school. 

Finding Confidence Through Creativity 

Konner first discovered creative arts through Beta Club competitions, where he found a love for photography. 

“I used to take photos a lot,” he shared.  

His early photography entries were a launchpad. By fourth grade, he had won first place at the state level and second at the national level for his photography work. In the following years, he began competing in woodworking – again, placing at both the state and national levels. 

His mother, Lisa, still beams when she talks about it. 

“When he started fourth grade, he was inducted into the elementary Beta Club. He’s been in Beta ever since. And now he’s in both Beta and the National Honor Society,” she said. 

Virtual Education – the Decision That Changed Everything 

The family enrolled Konner and his sister in CASC back in 2017, long before many families made the shift due to COVID-19. At the time, Konner was in third grade. 

“For me, it’s just easier,” Konner explained. “I can still do jobs and other stuff and still be able to do school.” 

Lisa says the switch was driven by a need for flexibility, safety, and stronger academic support. 

“In public school, they were left behind,” she said. “As soon as we enrolled at Cyber Academy, a teacher sat down with Konner one-on-one. She realized he needed to be evaluated, and they got everything accommodated for his learning style.” 

According to Lisa, the impact was immediate. 

“In public school, his grades weren’t the best. But in Cyber Academy, he’s an A/B honor roll student.” 

Getting Ahead … Way Ahead 

As a junior, Konner splits his days between classes at CASC and dual enrollment at Greenville Technical College. His schedule is structured but flexible, which is perfect for a student juggling many responsibilities. 

“Right now, I’m taking two high school classes and four college classes,” he said. “Three of the college classes are online, and the welding class I take in person.” 

Even more impressive? He’s part of Greenville Tech’s elite STEMS Bridging Program, which only accepted 10 welding students statewide. Through the program, corporations sponsor the students’ education – covering tuition and even providing equipment. 

“He got all his welding supplies for free this semester,” Lisa shared. “As long as he graduates in 2027, he’ll have two welding certificates and his high school diploma.” 

By the time Konner finishes high school, he’ll be fully certified and ready to start his welding career – years ahead of his peers. 

A Passion for Archery – and a Pathway to Scholarships 

When he’s not studying or welding, Konner competes in state and national archery tournaments through the Scholastic 3D Archery (S3DA) program. 

“I started around 2021,” Konner said. “We travel around the state – Myrtle Beach, Columbia, Rock Hill – and sometimes up toward Kentucky for bigger events.” 

Archery has also opened doors for college scholarships. 

“If he places in state or national tournaments, he earns scholarship money,” Lisa explained. “There are 20 to 25 colleges nationwide in the program. He can take that scholarship record to different schools and see what they can offer him.” 

Building Real-World Skills… in High School 

Between his education, archery, and welding training, Konner is gaining hands-on experience few students his age have. 

“I’m currently working with a couple of cattle farmers and helping them whenever they need something welded,” he shared. 

Lisa says the flexibility of virtual learning allowed him to learn these skills from home early on. 

“He was even able to work with his dad through middle school,” she said. “He got class time and hands-on time, and more time with us as a family.” 

It’s that balance – education, career prep, and family connection – that the family values most. 

A Model That Fits 

Reflecting on their journey, Konner and his mom firmly believe that traditional school settings wouldn’t have allowed for Konner’s growth. 

“I wouldn’t be able to pursue so many things in a traditional classroom,” Konner said. 

Lisa agrees. 

“When virtual is the right fit, it can be amazing,” she said. “For us, the flexibility, the support, being able to travel for sports, the academics – it all works together.” 

With welding certifications on the horizon, scholarship opportunities in archery, and a long record of academic excellence, Konner is charting a future full of possibilities – and we are happy to have played a key role in helping him get there. 

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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