What Online School Looks Like: A Student Day in the Life Q&A With Grace  

See how and why online school works for Grace in this Student Advisory Council blog series.

By: Grace B., 10th grade student and SAC intern

K12 asked this year’s Student Advisory Council cohort what makes online school so great and here’s what our own Grace had to say.

What do you like about online learning at Cyber Academy of South Carolina (CASC)?

I love the flexibility; I can work at my own pace, on my own schedule, and in whatever setting works best for me. Without online school, I wouldn’t have been able to accomplish the things I have, like working multiple jobs, starting businesses, advocating for others, and pursuing leadership roles.

Did you previously attend a brick-and-mortar school?

Yes, I attended brick-and-mortar school until sixth grade. Originally, I made the switch because of COVID-19. That experience pushed me to join CASC, and I ended up choosing to stay. The transition was pretty smooth. Starting a new school, especially one so different, is always a little tough, but CASC made it as easy as possible.

Did anything surprise you about online school?

The number of opportunities! Many people assume online school limits things like clubs and competitions, but it’s been the opposite for me. Without it, I wouldn’t be able to do even half of what I do now. Now, I can travel, work, explore my passions, take part in internships, and give back to my community, to name a few things.

Can you describe a typical day and week for your virtual school experience?

I usually start by logging into class. After I finish schoolwork, I head to my first job walking dogs, then shift gears to work on content creation for K12’s marketing department. Later, I focus on my advocacy work and leadership roles.

But every day is different, one day I might be writing a paper in bed, and the next I could be on the other side of the world. That’s the beauty of online school: it’s always an adventure.

What classes are you taking right now?

I’m currently taking biology, Spanish, and modern world history. I’m in the Health Science career pathway. I’ve taken Health Science 1, am taking Medical Terminology now, and I’m looking forward to more courses to come through those.

Do you have a favorite part of the day?

Definitely when I get to kick back, relax, and focus on my writing. Writing is a huge part of my life. In my spare time, I publish poetry.

Who’s your favorite teacher?

Science is my favorite subject, and my biology teacher, Mrs. Allison Hilton, is my favorite teacher. She’s amazing.

Almost all of my teachers have been incredible. Some have gone out of their way to make me feel safe and supported, like wishing me good luck before big tests, sending birthday cards, or even playing songs they knew I’d love before class. They’re always there for me, after class, through emails, or during office hours. Most genuinely care and are always happy to help.

Are you in any school clubs?

Yes! I’m a leader in several nationally recognized clubs like Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA), Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), National Honor Society (NHS), BETA, and others specific to my school, like student council. I’m currently running for multiple officer positions. BETA is focused on leadership and service and has lots of opportunities for involvement. I have more than 100 service hours this year alone so far. I’ve been in BETA for more than 7 years and HOSA for more than 4. I’ll head to the BETA National Competitions this summer after placing #1 in my state for photography!

What are your hobbies?

I’m a national advocate for youth living with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease or CMT. I serve on the Youth Council for the CMT Association and am an Ambassador for the CMT Research Foundation. I’ve worked with top researchers, national nonprofits, and even celebrities to raise awareness and support. Online school makes my work possible; it gives me the time and flexibility to help others while pursuing my passions.

Can you tell us about your workspace?

My workspace changes all the time. I have a basic desk, but I love working in unconventional places. The most interesting places I’ve done schoolwork are perhaps the real Dracula castle or the set of the viral Netflix series Wednesday in Romania. Being able to learn anywhere is what makes online school so special to me.

Do you feel that CASC is helping you prepare for the future?

Absolutely. I want to go into healthcare and study neurology. CASC has given me real-world experiences, time management skills, and access to advanced classes. It’s helped me grow both academically and personally.

Thank you, Grace! To learn more about the K12 Student Advisory Council, visit their webpage, or see how your student can thrive in online school with K12-powered programs in South Carolina. 

Grace is a 2025 student at a K12-powered school in SC, and their statement reflects their experience at their school.

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