Why choose PCVA?
Pickens County Virtual Academy (PCVA) is available free of charge to all qualifying students in the School District of Pickens County. PCVA partners with VirtualSC to offer high quality, standards-aligned coursework taught by teachers dedicated to teach PCVA students. They are available every school day for extra help, intervention, and support so that students can do well and prepare to meet their future goals.
What options do students have?
Course Conflict - Students may want two courses that are scheduled in the same block at their home high school. If one is offered by PCVA, take it virtually and the other in-person.
Exploring Career Center Opportunities - Students in PCVA are able to take courses at their home high schools, the Pickens County Career and Technology Center, as well as Gateway to Innovation. PCVA frees up their schedule so that they can meet their Career-Ready goals through coursework. Some PCVA students taking advantage of this opportunity are able to complete at least two of our career center programs.
Balancing Life - Do you play sports, work a job, take private lessons, attend your church youth group, and go to school? Sometimes extra obligations overwhelm students, especially when they're in class all day and need to fit in everything else plus homework and studying after 3:30 PM. Students indicate they gain back their lives, their families, and their balance by taking some or all of their courses through PCVA. Coursework and studying is completed prior to evening activities and some even find time to work during the day, too.
How do I request courses?
The 2026-2027 application for course requests is now open for upcoming terms. Apply here to request your courses.
Also, talk with your high school counselor. These professionals are well-equipped to help you navigate finding your life balance by incorporating PCVA coursework.
Questions?
Contact PCVA at 864-397-3310 for more information or reach out to lorigwinn@pickens.k12.sc.us by email.