How Arkansas Virtual Academy Supports Students with Learning Disabilities

For students with learning disabilities, the right support can make all the difference. Arkansas Virtual Academy (ARVA) provides a personalized, research-backed approach that empowers students to thrive. From early screening and intervention to flexible learning models, ARVA ensures that students receive the tools, guidance and encouragement they need to succeed.

Jacinda, a senior at ARVA, knows firsthand how these resources can change a student’s trajectory. Diagnosed with dyslexia between second and third grade, she once struggled with reading and avoided books altogether. Now, she’s an avid reader, a National Honor Society member and an active participant in ballet and community theater.

“I never thought I would be able to read, but I can read so well now,” she said. “You can do anything with it.”

Early Intervention and Personalized Support

At ARVA, the screening process for learning disabilities begins in kindergarten. Students in grades K-3 are screened three times a year for reading difficulties, with automatic services for those who need extra support. Dyslexia specialists, including ARVA’s Dyslexia Coordinator Erica Keen, provide assessments and interventions tailored to each student’s needs.

“If students are behind grade level in reading, then we automatically start giving them reading services,” Keen explained. “Once we’ve identified a student who needs support, we assess where the struggle is — whether it’s phonological awareness, comprehension or something else — and provide targeted interventions.”

Keen also meets students in person for additional testing and support when needed. The assessment evaluates reading, writing, listening and language skills to identify the best path forward for each student.

For students who need accommodations in their daily coursework, ARVA provides:

• Small-group dyslexia intervention sessions (30 minutes a day, Monday-Thursday)
• One-on-one teacher support
• Audiobooks and text-to-speech services
• Extended time on assignments
• Hands-on intervention kits, including tactile learning tools

“We make sure our students feel safe and supported,” Keen said. She shared the story of a student who was hesitant to read aloud but felt comfortable enough in his dyslexia intervention group to volunteer in front of the entire class. “He knew she was safe,” she said, referring to his teacher. “That kind of confidence boost is what we strive for.”

The Flex Program: A School Within a School

For students with learning disabilities who need even more flexibility, ARVA offers the Flex Program — a customized virtual learning experience designed for students who require an adaptable schedule.

Jacinda joined ARVA in kindergarten, and began the Flex Program in high school, allowing her to travel with her family, manage her coursework efficiently and still participate in extracurriculars like ballet and theater.

“During the day, I’m doing school,” she said. “At night, I’m either at ballet class or rehearsal. Right now, I’m having to take four ballet classes a week on top of school.”

The Flex Program is designed for students who may be:

• Needing a flexible schedule due to travel, medical needs or other commitments
• Highly engaged but requiring individualized pacing
• Struggling learner and would benefit from reduced screen time and more one-on-one instruction

“We really work with students so the teacher can do one-on-ones or small groups and kind of catch them up three or four times a week,” Keen said. “They may not have as many requirements, but they can’t get behind on the curriculum.”

Turning Challenges into Strengths

Jacinda’s journey with dyslexia has shaped her into the person she is today.

“Given the decision to not have it or to have it, I would still choose to have it because it’s a part of me now,” she said. “Everything I’ve done, it has influenced, but it made me who I am.”

Her story is proof that with the right support, determination and the flexibility ARVA provides, students with learning disabilities can thrive — academically and beyond.

Empowering Every Student at ARVA

ARVA is committed to making personalized education accessible for all students. With specialized support programs, experienced teachers and a flexible learning environment, students like Jacinda can break through barriers and achieve their full potential.

If your student could benefit from individualized instruction, targeted interventions or a flexible learning model, ARVA is here to help. Learn how our flexible approach can support your child’s unique learning needs. Visit our How It Works page to explore our programs today.

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