Research shows that students retain 25-60% more material when learning online, compared to just 8-10% in traditional classrooms.
At Heron Virtual Academy of South Carolina, students like Brianna are proof that online learning can lead to success. After a difficult freshman year in her previous brick-and-mortar school, Brianna switched to Heron.
The tuition-free, online public school for grades 8-12 introduced her to Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG), a program that provides support to students who are at risk of dropping out.
Heron is the only virtual school in the state that works with the national program. Brianna thrived, and went on to win the Governor’s Award at the 2024 SC JAG Conference.
“I made a complete 180-degree turn with my grades, attendance, and everything,” Brianna said. "[The] teachers were so nice and helpful. [I have] a level of support at Heron I’ve never had before.”