As a parent, I always want what’s best for my kids. I stay involved in nearly everything they do—whether it’s sports, school clubs, extracurricular activities, or church. I try to guide them with strong values and high expectations, but like so many parents today, I sometimes find myself competing with influences that are out of my control. Not every family shares the same values, and that can affect the kinds of friends our children make and the choices they face.
Over time, I noticed my child being influenced in ways that didn’t align with the standards we hold at home. That’s when I began to explore other options for her education—and that’s how I found Aiken iNNOVATE.
From the start, the program gave me something I didn’t know I was missing: partnership. With Aiken iNNOVATE, I’m not just a spectator in my child’s education—I’m an active participant. I work from home, so I can see how she’s engaging in her classes, how she’s taking notes, and how she’s managing her time. It gives me the opportunity to coach her and support her in real-time.
The teachers and staff are incredibly responsive. Communication is easy and ongoing, and because all of the coursework is online, I can always see what she’s working on. That kind of transparency has made a huge difference in how I support her academically.
Another benefit is the digital skillset my daughter is developing. Navigating online platforms, managing deadlines, and participating in virtual meetings are all preparing her for success in college and beyond. These are real-world skills she’s building every day.
One of the things I love most about the program is its flexibility. My daughter still attends one course at her home school, which means she gets in-person interaction with peers in a structured environment. She also socializes through church and other community activities, so she’s not isolated or glued to a screen all day.
Because Aiken iNNOVATE is part of Aiken County Public Schools, she still has access to all the same opportunities—school events, dances, sports games, and more. When she graduates, she’ll receive a diploma from her home high school, just like any other student.
Virtual learning isn’t the right fit for every family. It takes a motivated student and a highly engaged parent who’s willing to partner closely with teachers and administrators. But for our family, it’s been a perfect fit. I feel more connected to my child’s education than ever before, and I’m so grateful to be part of the Aiken iNNOVATE community.
Aiken iNNOVATE Parent