A5 Connect 2026-2027
Anderson School District Five is excited to offer A5 Connect - a new instructional option for students in grades 6-8, beginning in the 2026-2027 academic year. In partnership with VirtualSC, A5 Connect is a state-approved hybrid learning program that affords students access to virtual learning opportunities using district-based support. This hybrid instructional model blends the flexibility of online learning with the support and connection of in-person experiences.A5 Connect is ideal for middle school students and families seeking alternative learning pathways to accommodate individual student needs. The convenience of online coursework combined with structured in-person learning, advising, and enrichment opportunities helps students stay connected, engaged, and successful.
Students enrolled in A5 Connect will primarily receive online instruction asynchronously, but must attend in-person one day per week. Students will report to Southwood Academy of the Arts from 8:30 am - 11:30 am on their assigned in-person learning day (which will be based on grade level and/or school). Additionally, students must participate in a mandatory Weekly Advisory session. Weekly Advisory sessions are conducted virtually and will occur in a 30-minute block of each Monday morning. A5 Connect's curriculum features coursework in all four core content areas (English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies), as well as Physical Education and Related Arts options. Individual student interests are also supported, and students are encouraged to maximize learning through participating in supplemental in-person experiences (E.g. STEM experiences, field trips, peer-to-peer activities, etc.) once per month.
Anderson Five is now accepting applications for A5 Connect for the 2026-2027 academic year. The A5 Connect application will CLOSE on May 21, 2026 at 4:00 pm. An application must be submitted for each child (in grades 6th-8th) living in a household.
In the event that the number of applicants exceeds enrollment availability, the district will utilize a lottery process to randomly select students for the program. Applicants will be notified if they have been approved for A5 Connect OR if they have been placed in the lottery. If a lottery process is necessary, details will be communicated to affected applicants.
A5 Connect is a program of choice that requires a strong partnership between the school, the student, and parents/guardians. To be fully accepted into the program, all parents/guardians must attend an official orientation session each year that a student is enrolled in A5 Connect. Details of this Mandatory Orientation will be forthcoming.
USE THE BUTTON BELOW TO ACCESS THE A5 CONNECT APPLICATION:
FAQ
Use the arrows below to expand responses to frequently asked questions regarding the A5 Connect hybrid program.
What is A5 Connect?
What is VirtualSC?
How can I apply for A5 Connect?
What happens after I apply?
What happens if we are accepted into A5 Connect?
What happens if we are not accepted into A5 Connect?
What if my child enrolls in A5 Connect, but later wants to return to their zoned school?
If my student is accepted into the program, does it carry over to the following school year(s)?
What day must students attend in-person learning?
Do I have to provide transportation for my student on the in-person learning days?
Can my child participate in athletics as an A5 Connect student?
Does A5 Connect provide special education services?
For additional questions about A5 Connect, please email [email protected]