In South Carolina, an 18 year old student at a virtual charter school is fighting to fulfill his dream of enrolling in the Air Force. The military's current recruitment policy puts students who attend virtual schools in a separate category from those who attend brick and mortar schools. This policy unfairly places students who have graduated from fully-accredited full-time public virtual charter schools in the same group as those who have received a GED.

Virtual charter schools have customized online instruction that caters to every student, and because it is a public school program, all the courses, materials, computers, and teachers are tuition-free.  This public school option gives students the opportunity to receive an individualized education in their home, on the road, or wherever an Internet connection can be found, regardless of their geographic location or educational needs. 
 
Every student is assigned to a state-certified public school teacher responsible for overseeing and guiding work.  The school has the same accountability requirements as every public school in the state.  Teachers are responsible for overseeing and managing student learning, and to ensure students are meeting all academic progress and accountability requirements.  All students must participate in the state assessment tests and meet attendance requirements.
 
Congressman Joe Wilson (R-SC) held a meeting with the student this week and promised to fight for legislation to change the military's recruitment policy for virtual students.  "The young people of our country are dedicated, they are committed, very capable and I want them to have the privilege and opportunity of serving their country," Wilson said.