By: Dr. Colleen Dambman If you’re not feeling the 4-year college route, you’re not alone , and you’re not stuck. In my work with South Carolina’s high school students, I see smart, capable teens who want to start earning sooner, learn by doing, and avoid years of debt. Technical college and skilled-trade pathways offer exactly that: hands-on training, in-demand skills, and faster entry into solid careers (Soliz, 2023). At Odyssey Online Learning, we see many students who thrive when given the freedom to explore different career paths. Technical college is a strong option we encourage families to consider as part of a student’s Individual Graduation Plan (IGP). What “Trade School” Looks Like Now Today’s technical programs go far beyond “shop class.” You’ll find advanced manufacturing and mechatronics, HVAC with smart controls, welding for clean-energy projects, CDL logistics, medical assisting, and cybersecurity. Many programs pair coursework with paid apprenticeships , allowing you to earn while you learn, graduate with experience, and step directly into a job. A recent peer-reviewed synthesis finds that U.S. registered apprenticeships are associated with strong employment and earnings outcomes when programs include structured on-the-job learning and related instruction (Gallup, 2024). For OOL students, this means the skills you build in high school can directly connect with South Carolina’s technical college system. With flexible scheduling at OOL , you can focus on the courses that align with these future opportunities. Will it Pay Off? Short answer: yes , on average, and often quickly . A 2023 peer-reviewed review of postsecondary Career and Technical Education (CTE) concludes that short, technical credentials and two-year degrees often yield significant labor-market returns (Soliz, 2023). Translation: The right program matters, but the payoff is real, especially when programs are aligned with local employer demand. Specializing pays off . Students who take a coherent sequence of upper-level CTE courses tend to earn more in their early careers, amounting to about a 2% wage bump for each additional year of advanced CTE, while sampling lots of intro classes doesn’t add the same value (Kreisman & Stange, 2020). And CTE isn’t a track for “low-ability” students; it attracts teens with different strengths and interests (Kreisman & Stange, 2020). Apprenticeships multiply the benefits . Registered apprenticeships combine paid, on-the-job training with related classroom learning and are consistently linked to higher earnings and steadier employment after completion, especially when the programs are well-structured (Gallup, 2024). Our students are encouraged to take advantage of CTE and dual-enrollment options. Our counselors help families identify programs that match their students' strengths, whether in healthcare, IT, trades, or other high-demand fields. “But Aren’t Trade Jobs Disappearing?” Not in the skilled trades. Federal projections show continued or faster-than-average growth for many technician roles. For example, electrician employment is projected to grow 11% from 2023–2033 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics [BLS], 2025a). HVAC technicians are projected to grow 9% over the same period (BLS, 2025b). And several clean-energy technician roles are among the fastest-growing jobs in the country (BLS, 2023). These jobs are also resilient to outsourcing and often include opportunities for overtime, advancement, and entrepreneurship. This is especially relevant for OOL families in South Carolina , where industries like manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare continue to expand. Technical careers are not just available; they are in high demand and growing. What About Debt and Timing? Technical pathways are typically shorter and more affordable than 4-year routes, and many apprenticeships pay you while you train (Gallup, 2024). In South Carolina, programs like SC•WINS and Workforce Scholarships for the Future can cover substantial (sometimes all) tuition and required fees in high-demand programs at our 16 technical colleges (SC Technical College System, n.d.; South Carolina Technical College System, 2022). Check your local campus for current eligibility and award amounts. Odyssey counselors work with students during IGP meetings to connect them with these scholarship opportunities. This ensures students graduate not just with a high school diploma but also with a clear plan for affordable next steps. A Day-in-the-Life (And a Path that Grows With You) Imagine that you complete your high school diploma at Odyssey Online Learning and then enroll in a one-year mechatronics certificate at a nearby technical college. By month two, you’re interning on a line that uses smart robotics. You step into a full-time role in under a year, then stack an advanced certificate (often with employer tuition help). Two years in, you’re earning steady wages with clear steps to lead tech or supervisor. If you catch the college bug later, many technical credits stack into an associate degree—and sometimes even a bachelor’s pathway (Soliz, 2023). We’ve seen OOL graduates take this very path, choosing technical college as a launchpad to strong careers , while keeping doors open for future degrees. How to Choose a High-Value Technical Path ● Start with strengths . Do you like solving puzzles, fixing things, helping people, or driving? Your interests map to clusters like manufacturing, IT, health, logistics, and construction. ● Verify local demand. Ask your local technical college’s career services which programs place quickly and which credentials employers ask for. ● Prioritize “earn-and-learn.” Apprenticeships and paid internships boost completion and earnings (Gallup, 2024). ● Go for depth, not dabbling. Concentrating on an upper-level CTE sequence beats sampling lots of intro classes (Kreisman & Stange, 2020). ● Ask about stackability. Choose programs where certificates roll into diplomas or degrees so you can upskill without starting over (Soliz, 2023). OOL counselors are ready to help students with all five of these steps, making sure their high school journey sets them up for success after graduation. Quick Next Steps Scan high-demand program lists and scholarship pages at your local technical college; many campuses advertise “no-cost tuition” for eligible programs (SC Technical College System, n.d.; South Carolina Technical College System, 2022). Explore Apprenticeship Carolina and ask employers about registered youth or adult apprenticeships, which combine wages with classroom learning (Apprenticeship Carolina, n.d.). Attend your annual IGP with your school counselor to translate your interests into a short list of programs and to build a plan. Reality-check the outlook. Look up your target roles in the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook to compare growth, typical pay, and training requirements (BLS, 2025a; 2025b). At OOL, your annual IGP is the perfect place to begin these conversations. T ogether, we’ll connect your passions with real opportunities. Bottom Line If a 4-year campus isn’t your dream, or just isn’t realistic right now, technical college and apprenticeships are not a consolation prize. For many students, they’re a faster, more affordable, and more direct route to real skills and real paychecks. The recent research is clear: when you pursue a technical pathway, align with local demand, and (ideally) earn while you learn, you set yourself up for strong early-career outcomes and a platform to keep growing (Gallup, 2024; Kreisman & Stange, 2020; Soliz, 2023). At Odyssey Online Learning, we believe every student’s path is unique . For some, that means a four-year university. For others, the technical college and apprenticeship route is the smartest, fastest, and most affordable path to success. With South Carolina’s scholarships, employer partnerships, and in-demand job growth, OOL students have an incredible opportunity to build strong careers right out of high school without years of debt. Your future is wide open. Let’s find the path that excites you most! References Apprenticeship Carolina. (n.d.). Apprenticeship Carolina – a division of the SC Technical College System. https://www.apprenticeshipcarolina.com/ Gallup, A. (2024). What we know about registered apprenticeship: A systematic review and synthesis of 30 years of empirical research. Economic Development Quarterly, 38(1), 25–39. https://doi.org/10.1177/08912424231196792 Kreisman, D., & Stange, K. (2020). Vocational and career tech education in American high schools: The value of depth over breadth. Education Finance and Policy, 15(1), 11–44. South Carolina Technical College System. (2022). Workforce Scholarships for the Future [PDF handout]. https://www.sctechsystem.edu/downloads/SCWorkforceScholarshipsForTheFuture_Handout.pdf South Carolina Technical College System. (n.d.). SC•WINS Scholarship Program. https://www.sctechsystem.edu/sc-wins/ U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, October). Industry and occupational employment projections overview and highlights, 2022–32. Monthly Labor Review. https://doi.org/10.21916/mlr.2023.24 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025a). Electricians: Occupational Outlook Handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/electricians.htm U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025b). Heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers: Occupational Outlook Handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/heating-air-conditioning-and-refrige ration-mechanics-and-installers.htm U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, April 18). Occupation Finder. Occupational Outlook Handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/occupation-finder.htm

By Janna DeCamps Here’s to a Year of Purpose, Progress, and Possibility Today is more than just the first day of school; it’s the beginning of a new chapter filled with fresh opportunities, meaningful connections, and the chance to grow in ways that matter to you. Whether you're joining us for the very first time or you're returning for another year of learning and discovery, we’re so excited to have you as part of our Odyssey family. 💜 💻 What Makes Odyssey Special? At Odyssey Online Learning, school should be a place where every student feels seen, supported, and empowered to succeed. Here, your learning fits your life, and you don’t have to do it alone. Here’s what you can expect this year: 🎒 Certified South Carolina teachers who are here to guide and support you. 💬 Live lessons where you can ask questions, interact with classmates, and learn in real time. 🤝 In-person field trips and virtual clubs that make it easy to connect and build community. 📈 A personalized learning path that lets you move at your own pace and chase your own goals. 🌟 Support Beyond the Classroom At Odyssey, each student is paired with a Student Engagement Specialist who is dedicated to supporting their overall success. These specialists help students develop essential executive functioning skills like time management, organization, and self-advocacy, and guide them in applying those skills to achieve academic success. They work closely with students, guardians, teachers, school counselors, and other Odyssey staff to ensure a well-rounded support system that promotes meaningful engagement and consistent progress. When it comes to academic planning, personal challenges, or your future goals, our caring school counselors are ready to listen, guide, and support you every step of the way. 📅 A Fresh Start for Everyone This year is especially exciting as we launch our brand-new middle school program for grades 6–8! We can’t wait to welcome a new group of young learners who are ready to explore, connect, and thrive in a flexible online environment. No matter your grade level, this is your year to build confidence, try new things, and discover what success means for you. 💜 You Belong Here We know that every student’s path looks different , and that’s exactly why Odyssey exists. No matter where you are or where you're starting, we believe in your potential, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Here’s to a school year full of purpose, progress, and possibility! Welcome back!! We’re so glad you’re here.

By: Shannon Wilder Whether you’re a returning student or just beginning your journey with us, we’re so excited to have you. Starting something new can be both exciting and overwhelming, but at Odyssey, you’re never alone. Our goal is for you to feel ready, excited, and supported from day one! With the right tools and guidance, you’ll feel confident, connected, and ready to soar. 💜 Here are five key things to know before your first day with us: 1. Orientation Is Your First Step—And It’s Super Helpful! Before classes officially begin, you’ll go through a quick and supportive orientation. This is your chance to get familiar with our learning platform, meet a few staff members, and learn how everything works. Think of it as your personal walkthrough of what to expect. Don’t worry if you’re new to online school, we’ll walk you through it all, step by step! 2. Get Your Materials and Tech Set Up Early To have a smooth start, make sure you have a reliable device (like a laptop or Chromebook), access to the internet, and a quiet space to learn. You’ll also want a few basic school supplies on hand, like a notebook, pens, and maybe a calendar to help you stay organized. If you need help with technology, reach out early, and we’ll work with you to make sure you’re ready. 3. Live Lessons Are Key—Here’s Why Live lessons are where the magic happens! These virtual classes give you the chance to connect with your teachers, ask questions in real time, and learn alongside your classmates. They’re a big part of building relationships and staying engaged. Check to make sure your webcam and mic are working before class. This will ensure maximum engagement and the optimal set-up for learning to take place! 4. Need Help? We’re Only a Click or Call Away One of the best parts of Odyssey is that you’re never on your own. Whether you need to reach your teacher for a quick question or you’re stuck with a tech issue, help is just a message or phone call away. Teachers and support staff are friendly, responsive, and genuinely want to see you succeed. Get to know the team behind your success in our Staff Directory . We’re all in this together! 5. You Don’t Have to Know It All—We’re Here to Guide You! Let’s be honest, no one starts something new knowing everything, and that’s okay. You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. We’ll guide you through your first days, support you along the way, and celebrate your successes with you. Late start? No problem. We’re ready whenever you are. Final Thoughts At Odyssey Online Learning, we believe in flexible, supportive, student-centered education. Whether you’re brand new to online school or just looking for a fresh start, we’re excited to welcome you into our learning community. Let’s make this year a great adventure, one step at a time!

By: Janna DeCamps Is your child passionate about sports but needs the flexibility of online learning? In that case, the good news is that students enrolled at Odyssey Online Learning can still join sports teams and participate in extracurricular activities at their zoned schools. However, they do need to try out and make the team, demonstrating their commitment and meeting the requirements, like all other students, to represent their school. This option gives families the best of both worlds: a personalized, flexible virtual learning environment and the ability to stay active and connected through athletics in their home district. 🥎 How It Works South Carolina students who attend Odyssey Online Learning remain residents of their local school district. That means they’re still eligible to participate in extracurricular activities, including sports, at their zoned brick-and-mortar schools. Participation is subject to eligibility rules set by the South Carolina High School League (SCHSL) and any specific policies of your home district. Still, many families have successfully taken advantage of this opportunity. 🏐 Steps to Get Started: Enroll your student at Odyssey Online Learning. Contact your zoned school’s athletic director to let them know your student wants to participate. Complete any required forms for eligibility and compliance (such as proof of residence or academic standing). Make sure that your child attends the tryouts for the sport they want to participate in. ⚽️ Why Families Choose This Path Parents and students often choose Odyssey Online Learning because of the flexibility it provides for academics, health, or family needs. Being able to stay connected to a sports team they love is a huge bonus. This model works exceptionally well for: Student-athletes with demanding training schedules. Families who travel or relocate often. Students seeking a safe, supportive, and distraction-free learning environment. ✅ NCAA Eligibility? We’ve Got That Covered Too! Odyssey Online Learning offers NCAA-approved courses that meet the core requirements for student-athletes who plan to play sports at the college level. Our curriculum includes Honors, AP, and Dual Enrollment classes that align with NCAA standards. 🏀 What does this mean for you? Your student can build a strong academic foundation while still focusing on athletics. Our school counselors can help guide families through NCAA requirements and planning. You won’t have to choose between college dreams and flexible learning. 🌟 You Really Can Have It All We believe students shouldn’t have to choose between academic flexibility and pursuing their passions. At Odyssey Online Learning, we’re here to support the whole student , providing the structure they need academically while allowing space to thrive athletically, artistically, and socially. If you’re ready to explore how Odyssey can support your student-athlete, reach out today or begin the enrollment process at www.odysseyonline.com . 🎓 Odyssey Online Learning : Empowering students across South Carolina to learn their way while still playing the sport they love and achieving success both in the classroom and on the field!

By: Janna DeCamps Middle school is a time of significant transitions. Students are growing academically, socially, and emotionally, and they’re starting to discover how they learn best. That’s why middle school can be the perfect time to explore the flexibility and benefits of virtual learning. At Odyssey Online Learning, providing students with the opportunity to grow in a supportive online environment helps them develop the confidence and skills they need for long-term success. Here's why virtual learning can be a game-changer for middle school students. 🌟 Building Independence Middle schoolers are at the age where they're ready to take on more responsibility, but still need guidance. In an online school environment, students learn how to manage assignments, communicate effectively with teachers, and navigate digital tools, essential skills for the future. With the proper support, students begin to take ownership of their learning. At Odyssey Online Learning, our team works closely with families to help students set goals, establish routines, and take pride in their progress. ⏰ Learning Time Management One of the most significant benefits of virtual learning is flexibility. Students benefit from a more adaptable daily structure while still meeting clear expectations that include attending live lessons, participating in intervention sessions, and completing assignments on time. This approach allows them to work at a pace that suits their learning style. This flexibility teaches valuable time management skills. Middle schoolers learn how to organize their day, prioritize assignments, and build habits that will serve them well in high school, college, and beyond. And don’t worry, they’re not doing it alone. Our Student Engagement Specialists are here to help every step of the way. At Odyssey, each student is paired with a student engagement specialist who is dedicated to supporting their overall success. These specialists support students in developing key executive functioning skills, including time management, organization, and self-advocacy. Additionally, this helps guide them in applying those skills to achieve academic success. Through collaboration with the student, guardian, teachers, school counselors, and other Odyssey Online Learning staff, the Student Engagement Specialist ensures a well-rounded support system that promotes meaningful engagement and consistent progress. 🌱 Focusing on Personal Growth Virtual learning provides students with the opportunity to explore their strengths, passions, and learning styles. Whether they need extra time on a subject or want to advance in an area of interest, Odyssey Online Learning offers personalization that’s hard to find in traditional classrooms. Additionally, students develop digital literacy, self-discipline, and confidence, skills that prepare them not only for academics but also for life. 🏃‍♀️ Making Time for Outside Interests Middle school is also a time when students begin discovering passions beyond the classroom—whether it's sports, dance, music, art, or entrepreneurship. These interests often require time, travel, and energy that don’t always fit into a traditional school schedule. At Odyssey, virtual learning offers students the flexibility to pursue their passions without compromising their education. Our personalized pacing allows them to balance academics with extracurricular commitments, helping them develop discipline, confidence, and a sense of fulfillment both in and out of school. 💜 Support Every Step of the Way Middle schoolers thrive when they know they are supported. At Odyssey, our middle school program combines flexibility with structure, with daily live lessons, teacher check-ins, student engagement specialists, and meaningful activities that keep students connected and on track. We also prioritize relationships because learning occurs most effectively when students feel seen, heard, and encouraged. Ready to Learn More? If you are a parent or guardian exploring school options for your middle schooler, consider how online learning can open doors to independence, growth, and academic success. We would love to talk with you about how Odyssey Online Learning is creating a middle school experience that empowers students to thrive wherever they are. 📩 Reach out today or visit Odyssey Online Learning Enrollment to learn more about enrolling!

By: Jenn Conwell It’s that time again — your annual summer reading picks are here! ☀️ As we head into another sunny season of rest and recharging, there’s no better time to escape into the pages of a good book. Reading has been a hot commodity lately! 🔥 Whether you’re reading for pleasure, peace, or just to unplug from everything, it’s clear that books are having their moment. Whether you're lounging poolside or cooling off indoors this summer, this year's selections are bound to keep you turning pages. If you're a high school student at Odyssey Online Learning this upcoming fall, make sure to check out our Young Adult Book Club ! 📖 We’ll be diving into a new book each month to explore all the twists, turns, and adventures that make these stories so worthwhile. 📘 Top Picks for Grades 9–12: We Were Liars by E. Lockhart This modern classic is making a big comeback with the upcoming television adaptation releasing in June. It’s the perfect time to revisit—or discover—this twisty, emotional thriller. Don’t forget: the third book in the series drops this fall! When the Bones Sing by Ginny Myers Sain A Southern gothic supernatural thriller filled with lyrical writing, haunting secrets, and just the right amount of chills. Perfect for fans of atmospheric reads. Powerless Trilogy by Lauren Roberts Packed with rebellion, romance, and betrayal, this fantasy trilogy is the ultimate page-turner. If you love intense emotions and high-stakes worlds, you’ll want to dive into this series. The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins A must-read for anyone looking to boost their mindset this summer. Mel Robbins’ newest book is all about releasing the need for approval and embracing who you truly are. You are your best self! 📗 Top Picks for Grades 6–8: Ferris by Kate DiCamillo From the beloved author of Because of Winn-Dixie, this heartfelt novel explores family, secrets, and growing up with DiCamillo’s signature warmth and wonder. Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell Dive into a magical adventure full of mythical beasts, courage, and friendship. Rundell’s storytelling brings fantasy to life in a way that’s perfect for summer. Any age reader will love this story! The Bletchley Riddle by Ruta Sepetys & Steve Sheinkin Two powerhouse authors team up to deliver a gripping historical mystery inspired by real codebreakers during World War II. If you love puzzles, secrets, and thrilling moments from history, this one’s for you. No matter what you pick up, I hope your summer is filled with stories that inspire you, characters who stay with you, and peaceful moments where it’s just you and the page. 📚🌞 Can’t wait to hear what you’ve read when we’re back this fall! Happy Summer Reading!

A Tribute to the Odyssey Online Learning 🎓 Class of 2025 🎓

By: Kelly Studebaker End-of-Course (EOC) exams for Intermediate Algebra/Algebra 1, English 2, U.S. History, and Biology are just around the corner. Whether you're feeling confident or a little nervous, we've got your back with practical tips to help you finish strong and show what you’ve learned this year! 📚 Before the Test 1. Start Early – Give Yourself the Advantage Don’t wait until the last minute! Review your notes and assignments over time. Attend Live Lessons and EOC Review Sessions — your teachers are here to support you every step of the way. Break your study sessions into smaller, daily chunks. Your brain retains more when it's not overloaded! Coordinate with your parents or guardians for transportation on test day. Reschedule any appointments or shifts — your EOC is a priority! 2. Get Organized – Prep Like a Pro Create a simple study schedule and stick to it. Know which topics will be covered. Ask your teachers if you're unsure! Gather helpful materials and complete any practice tests provided. Use your Odyssey Planner or calendar to stay on top of dates. 3. Take Care of Yourself Aim for 8 hours of sleep the night before. Eat a healthy breakfast the morning of your exam — fuel your brain! Drink plenty of water. Avoid sugary drinks or energy boosters. Leave early so you arrive calm and ready to go. Pacing yourself starts before the test begins! ✍️ During the Test 1. Use a Strategic Approach Read all instructions carefully. Quickly scan the test to know what’s coming. Answer the easier questions first. Come back to the tricky ones — use the flag tool to mark them! Take your time — there’s no bonus for finishing early. 2. Tackle Multiple Choice Like a Pro Eliminate clearly wrong answers. Watch for keywords and “absolute” terms like always or never . Go with your gut — don’t second-guess unless you’re sure. 3. Stay Calm and Focused Breathe deeply if you feel nervous — you’ve got this! Ignore how fast other students are working. Use positive self-talk : “I’ve prepared. I can do this.” 📝 English 2 Essay Writing Tips 1. Plan Before You Write Use 5 minutes to map out your essay. Draft a strong thesis and 3 main points. Leave a few minutes at the end to proofread and polish. 2. Follow a Clear Structure Start with a hook to grab attention. Use clear topic sentences and detailed examples. Wrap it up with a solid conclusion that ties everything together. 🔁 Final Reminders Avoid Common Mistakes Don’t skim questions — read carefully. Check your work before submitting. Don’t leave answers blank — make an educated guess if needed! Bring These Essentials Water bottle and light snack (if allowed). A Picture ID. Odyssey will provide everything else you need , including a computer and test materials. 💪 You’ve Got This! Odyssey students are known for being independent, resilient, and motivated. Trust your preparation and take your time. You’ve worked hard all year — now’s the time to shine! 🌟 Good luck! We’re cheering you on!

We’re thrilled to announce that Odyssey Online Learning is expanding! For the 2025–2026 school year, we’re launching a brand-new, tuition-free virtual middle school serving students in grades 6–8 across South Carolina . This expansion allows younger students to benefit from Odyssey’s supportive, personalized approach to education, all from the comfort of home. Our mission is to meet students where they are, helping them grow academically and emotionally in a flexible, distraction-free learning environment. This exciting news has been featured across major South Carolina news outlets: 📰 WCBD News 2 – Charleston (NBC) 📰 News 13 – Myrtle Beach 📰 WSPA News 7 – Spartanburg 💻Enrollment is now open. Join us on this exciting journey!