Lowcountry Connections Academy Kicks Off 2025-2026 School Year with Expanded Learning Opportunities

South Carolina tuition-free virtual public school launches new alternative program and celebrates strong family satisfaction

SUMMERVILLE, S.C., Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Lowcountry Connections Academy, a tuition-free online public school serving grades K-12 across South Carolina, welcomed new and returning students to its virtual classrooms for the 2025-2026 academic year. With flexible learning options, engaging coursework, and personalized support, the school continues to empower students and families across South Carolina – and this year, it's introducing even more ways to help students thrive.

"We're excited to begin another fantastic school year, and this one is filled with new opportunities for students," said Dr. Hunter Jolley, school leader at Lowcountry Connections Academy. "Whether they're pursuing college, career readiness, or just looking for a learning environment that fits their pace, we're here to help them succeed."

Among the school's offerings this year is an alternative school program for students in grades 9-12 who are at least one grade level behind or have experienced significant academic challenges that prevent them from continuing with traditional school. The alternative school program offers a flexible and supportive environment with an adaptive curriculum that allows students to meet graduation requirements without retaking material they've already mastered.

Lowcountry Connections Academy also provides students advanced courses, engaging extracurricular activities and flexible scheduling, empowering them to take charge of their unique educational journeys. Middle and high schoolers can also take advantage of the school's impressive College and Early Career Readiness offering that integrates traditional academics with career-focused courses in fields such as IT, business, health sciences and marketing. This program equips students with durable skills like leadership, critical thinking and teamwork. Students can participate in career exploration and industry networking opportunities to build confidence, make connections and find direction to prepare for their future. 

Lowcountry Connections Academy provides a high-quality educational experience that keeps students motivated and engaged with a strong circle of support and a deep sense of belonging. The school's team of supportive and experienced educators, specially trained in online instruction, establish meaningful connections with students helping them achieve their full potential and reach their goals. Parents and caregivers are involved in the learning journey as their child's Learning Coach, serving as their mentor and guide through the school day.

"We chose Lowcountry Connections Academy after a year of homeschooling because we wanted more structure but still needed flexibility," said Dana Pawlucy, Charleston resident and parent to 11th grader Emma. "Since enrolling her in 9th grade, it's been a great fit for her. She's had time for figure skating, soccer, fostering animals, and even traveling. I love how she can stay on track with school while still having time to explore the things she is passionate about."

Students are returning to school following the release of the 2025 Parent Satisfaction Survey, an annual third-party survey that provides families with the opportunity to review their experience with Lowcountry Connections Academy. According to the 2025 Parent Satisfaction Survey results:

• 99% of parents feel their students are making progress on their academic goals at Lowcountry Connections Academy
• 97% of parents agree they have more opportunities to be involved in their child's education at Lowcountry Connections Academy
• 95% of parents believe their child is receiving a quality education with Lowcountry Connections Academy
• 95% of parents agree their child's teachers at Lowcountry Connections Academy are supportive
• 94% of parents agree Lowcountry Connections Academy prepares their child for college or career

The school was also recognized as a top finalist in the Virtual/Online Learning category of Lowcountry Parent's 2025 Mom's Choice Awards, honoring its popularity and strong reputation among South Carolina families.

Enrollment for the 2025-26 school year is still open for students in grades K-12. Families interested in Lowcountry Connections Academy and its new alternative program are encouraged to attend an online information session to learn more, ask questions, and discover if virtual school is the right fit for their student. For more information on Lowcountry Connections Academy, please visit www.LowcountryConnectionsAcademy.com or call 1-833-591-0251.

About Lowcountry Connections Academy
Lowcountry Connections Academy is a unique, tuition-free, online public school that serves students in grades K-12 across South Carolina. Lowcountry Connections Academy offers a high-quality educational experience that keeps students motivated and engaged in a safe, virtual learning environment. In addition to academics, teachers focus on building fundamental life skills, working closely with families to help students learn how they learn best. Here, students gain the skills and confidence they need to direct their own educational journey, learning to thrive in the real world by first learning how to be resourceful and resilient. For more information, visit www.LowcountryConnectionsAcademy.com or call 1-833-591-0251. 

Survey Methodology
Connections Academy conducts the annual Parent Satisfaction Survey to find out how parents, guardians and Learning Coaches grade the program in several key areas. The 2024-2025 School Year survey was conducted from January 15 to February 26, 2025 by Shapiro + Raj, an independent market research company that created the questionnaire, collected the data and tabulated the results. Parents and caretakers of all students enrolled at the time of the survey were invited to complete the survey online.

SOURCE Connections Academy