The Importance of Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) for Online Learners

By: Janna DeCamps Online learning has grown in popularity, but some myths about its quality and experience still exist. At Odyssey Online Learning, we’re here to clear up these misconceptions and show why online public schools are an excellent choice for South Carolina students. Plus, we’ll highlight the exciting opportunities students have at Odyssey—including in-person field trips, clubs, and even the chance to play sports for their locally zoned schools! 🌟 Myth 1: Online Schools Aren’t Accredited 🏅 Reality: Not all online public schools are accredited, but we’re happy to say that Odyssey Online Learning is fully accredited. We meet the same high standards as traditional schools, ensuring students earn a valid diploma that opens doors to college and career opportunities. We proudly align with South Carolina’s rigorous academic standards, giving you confidence in the quality of your child’s education. At Odyssey Online Learning, we even took it a step further and earned the prestigious International Cognia Accreditation, highlighting our commitment to surpassing the highest standards of educational quality and effectiveness. This distinction sets us apart and reflects our commitment to delivering the highest quality education. Myth 2: Students Don’t Interact with Teachers, Staff, or Peers 🤝 Reality: Interaction is at the heart of what we do! Odyssey Online Learning students connect with teachers during live lessons and one-on-one chats. 💬 Odyssey offers additional support through teacher office hours and Brain Boost sessions , giving students extra opportunities to succeed academically. 🧠✨ Each student is assigned a School Counselor who is critical in helping them navigate their educational journey and prepare for their futures while ensuring their overall well-being. In addition, at Odyssey Online, students are assigned a Student Engagement Specialist dedicated to enhancing student engagement, academic success, and family involvement, and fostering a strong sense of community. Each specialist works closely with students, meeting them where they are and utilizing a range of techniques and resources to support their success. Additionally, students engage with peers through collaborative projects, virtual clubs, and discussion forums. But we don’t stop there! Odyssey students also enjoy in-person field trips and events, which provide opportunities to connect with peers and explore South Carolina’s rich culture and history. Whether visiting a historical site, exploring local museums, outings at state parks, or attending a college tour, we ensure students have memorable experiences beyond the screen and build meaningful relationships. 🚶‍♀️📚 Myth 3: Online Learning is Easier 📘 Reality: Online doesn’t mean easier—it means flexible and engaging . Online learning at Odyssey is designed to be both challenging and engaging. Our curriculum includes interactive tools, multimedia lessons, and hands-on assignments, all aligned with South Carolina’s high school graduation requirements. 💻 Students work hard to meet the same academic standards as those in traditional schools but with the flexibility to complete assignments at their own pace. This flexibility allows students to balance their academic work with other commitments, such as extracurriculars, jobs, or family responsibilities. 🎓 Myth 4: Online Students Miss Out on Extracurriculars Reality: Virtual schools offer unique extracurricular opportunities! Odyssey Online Learning students have plenty of ways to stay involved. From virtual clubs like art, running, book, and service clubs to in-person field trips , students have opportunities to build friendships and explore their interests. 🎨✨ Our events and activities are designed to foster creativity, teamwork, and personal growth, creating a well-rounded experience for every learner. Additionally, students attending Odyssey have the ability to try out for sports at their locally zoned brick-and-mortar schools. 🏀⚽ While they must qualify through tryouts, they can participate in sports like football, track, cheerleading, and more, all while benefiting from Odyssey’s flexible learning schedule. Myth 5: Online Learning Lacks Structure 📆 Reality: Flexibility doesn’t mean a lack of structure. Odyssey Online students follow a clear and organized schedule that includes live lessons, set assignment deadlines, and tools to track their progress. Personalized dashboards help students stay on top of their work and develop effective time management skills. ⏰ Odyssey helps students develop time management skills and stay on track. Parents also stay informed with tools to monitor assignments and grades. Why Choose Odyssey Online Learning? 🌟 At Odyssey, we combine the best of both worlds of virtual and traditional education with academic rigor and a supportive, flexible learning environment. Students enjoy a well-rounded experience while pursuing their academic goals. From field trips to dynamic teacher interactions and student support, OOL has a vibrant community where students can thrive. 💪 Ready to discover how online learning can fit your family’s needs? Visit Odyssey Online Learning today! ✨ Ready to discover how online learning can fit your family’s needs? Visit Odyssey Online Learning today! ✨

The start of a new year is perfect for setting fresh goals and refocusing on your academic and personal growth. At Odyssey Online Learning, we understand the importance of setting meaningful, attainable resolutions aligned with your future aspirations. Here are some tips to help you set and stick to your academic resolutions this year: 1. Reflect on Last Year Before setting new goals, take a moment to reflect on the previous year. What were your biggest successes? What challenges did you face? Understanding what worked and what didn’t will give you a clearer perspective on what to focus on moving forward. Celebrate your progress and use it as motivation to tackle the new year with confidence. 2. Set SMART Goals Make sure your goals are SMART: Specific: Clearly define what you want to achieve. Measurable: Determine how you’ll track your progress. Achievable: Set goals that are challenging but realistic. Relevant: Focus on goals that align with your personal and academic priorities. Time-bound: Give yourself a deadline to stay motivated. For example, instead of saying, “I want to get better grades,” set a goal like, “I will increase my math grade by 10% by the end of the semester by studying for one hour each day.” 3. Break Goals into Smaller Steps Big goals can feel overwhelming, so break them into smaller, manageable tasks. If your goal is to improve your writing skills, start by setting weekly tasks, like practicing essay outlines, reading more, or completing additional writing exercises. 4. Create a Schedule A well-structured schedule is key to staying on track. Use a planner or digital tool to map out your daily and weekly tasks. Block out time for studying, completing assignments, and reviewing materials. At Odyssey, you have the flexibility to create a routine that works best for you—use that to your advantage! 5. Stay Accountable Share your goals with someone you trust, like a teacher, parent, or friend. They can help keep you motivated and provide encouragement when challenges arise. You can also use accountability tools like checklists or progress trackers to monitor your success. 6. Celebrate Small Wins Every step forward is an achievement! Celebrate your milestones, no matter how small. Rewarding yourself for progress can boost your motivation and keep you moving toward your larger goals. 7. Be Flexible and Adapt Life is full of surprises, and sometimes plans need to change. If you encounter setbacks, don’t get discouraged. Reassess your goals and adjust your approach as needed. Resilience is a key part of success. 8. Prioritize Self-Care Achieving your goals is important, but so is taking care of yourself. Make time for activities that recharge you, like exercise, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones. A healthy mind and body will help you stay focused and energized. 9. Utilize Odyssey’s Resources As an Odyssey Online Learning student, you have access to a wealth of resources designed to support your academic journey. Reach out to your teachers, use online tools, and engage with the Odyssey community for guidance and inspiration. Start Today! The new year is a blank slate, full of opportunities to grow, learn, and succeed. By setting achievable resolutions and staying committed to them, you’ll be well on your way to making 2025 your best year yet. Odyssey Online Learning is here to support you every step of the way—let’s make it a year to remember!

Ms. Lela Belue, English Teacher Are you ready to dive into a world of gripping adventures, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes? Whether you're in 9th grade or preparing to graduate high school, there's a whole world of Young Adult (YA) literature waiting for you to explore. The best part? It’s not just about reading—it’s about escaping to new worlds, understanding different perspectives, and, of course, having fun! From heart-pounding dystopian novels to laugh-out-loud contemporary stories, here are some YA book recommendations that will keep you hooked and help you discover new favorites. So grab a cozy blanket, some snacks, and get ready to lose yourself in these fantastic reads. For Freshmen (Grade 9) If you're just starting high school, you’re probably juggling new experiences, friendships, and the ever-present pressure to figure out who you are. YA books for 9th graders often center on identity, belonging, and finding your place in the world. Here are some that might hit home: 1. The Gilded Wolves by Roshani Chokshi If you like puzzles, historical settings, and a touch of magic, The Gilded Wolves will be your new obsession. Set in 19th-century Paris, this novel follows a group of talented outcasts as they navigate secrets, heists, and ancient mysteries. The diversity of characters and the lush world-building make it an exciting and immersive read. It’s also a series! 2. A Heart in a Body in the World by Deb Caletti If you’re looking for a raw and emotional story of healing and self-discovery, A Heart in a Body in the World will take you on a powerful ride. Annabelle, an 18-year-old girl reeling from a traumatic event, decides to run across the country—from Seattle to Washington, D.C.—in an attempt to regain control over her life. As she runs, she reflects on her past, faces her pain, and begins to understand what it means to heal. For Sophomores (Grade 10) By now, high school might be feeling a little more familiar, but there’s still plenty to discover about the world and yourself. Whether you're craving romance, action, or deep introspection, here are some great reads for 10th graders. 3. Clap When You Land by Elizabeth Acevedo This powerful novel in verse by award-winning author Elizabeth Acevedo tells the story of two sisters, Yahaira and Camino, who learn about each other’s existence after their father’s tragic death in a plane crash. Told in alternating perspectives, the book explores themes of family, grief, identity, and the secrets that bind us together. With Acevedo's signature lyrical prose, Clap When You Land is an emotional and beautifully written exploration of love, loss, and the search for belonging. 4. A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson If you’re into gripping mysteries with smart protagonists, A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder is perfect for you. The book follows high school senior Pip as she investigates a closed case in her town, uncovering secrets that no one expected. It’s fast-paced, clever, and filled with twists you won’t see coming. For Juniors (Grade 11) Junior year brings thoughts of the future. YA books for 11th graders often deal with complex themes like love, loss, mental health, and finding your purpose. Here are some books to inspire reflection (and maybe a little adventure, too). 5. The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins Ready for a return to the world of The Hunger Games? This prequel takes you back to the early days of Panem, focusing on a young Coriolanus Snow before he became the notorious president. If you’re a fan of dystopian fiction, political intrigue, and complex characters, this one will pull you in. It’s dark, it’s intense, and it’s all about power, survival, and making choices you can’t undo. 6. They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera Brace yourself—this book will tug at your heartstrings. When two strangers, Mateo and Rufus, receive a call from a company called Death-Cast informing them that they will die within 24 hours, they spend their final day together. This novel explores life, love, and the ways we connect with others when time is running out. It’s beautifully written and devastatingly honest. For Seniors (Grade 12) Senior year is a time of reflection, anticipation, and sometimes, uncertainty. YA books for 12th graders tend to delve into deep, introspective themes while also offering plenty of action and excitement. These books will have you thinking long after you’ve turned the last page. 7. The Midnight Library by Matt Haig In this philosophical novel, Nora Seed finds herself in a library between life and death, where each book represents a different version of her life. She can choose to relive any of these versions, but the question is: which one will make her truly happy? It’s a reflective, uplifting read that asks big questions about regret, choices, and the infinite possibilities of life. 8. We Were Liars by E. Lockhart This psychological thriller is a haunting exploration of family, privilege, and the price of secrets. When Cadence returns to her family’s private island after a traumatic accident, she’s forced to confront her memories—and the truth behind what happened. The twist at the end will leave you reeling, so make sure you have tissues on hand. OOL BOOK CLUB Looking for a fun way to make new friends and dive into awesome books? Join our OOL Book Club! Whether you're into thrilling mysteries, epic adventures, or heartfelt stories, we’d love to have you. Meet like-minded readers, share your thoughts, and discover your next favorite book—all while having a blast with fellow students. Come for the books, stay for the conversation. We’d love to see you at our next meeting! Contact: Mrs. Kenrick: Anna.Kendrick@OdysseyOnline.com Ms. Belue: Lela.Belue@OdysseyOnline.com

Experiential Learning at Odyssey: It’s Not Just Field Trips!

Celebrating Virtual School Month at Odyssey Online Learning

Crush Your Classes: Canvas Tips Every High Schooler Needs

Welcome Back: A Fresh Start to the School Year!

Odyssey Online Learning: Looking Back at the 2023-2024 School Year 

Tips for Success in Your Odyssey Online Learning High School Journey