From Farm to Future: Ava’s Journey with Arkansas Virtual Academy

For Arkansas Virtual Academy (ARVA) student Ava, a childhood love of animals has grown into a deep-rooted passion for agriculture, and her curiosity evolved into a way of life. Seven years ago, Ava’s family moved from Arizona to Arkansas to provide her with better opportunities. Having previously attended Arizona Virtual Academy (AZVA), another public online charter school powered by K12, Ava knew ARVA was the perfect choice when her family relocated.

A Passion That Transformed a Family

Ava’s mother, Carrie, admitted she was unsure about virtual learning at first. “When my husband initially suggested an online school, I wasn’t really sold on it, but we made a family decision to give it a try,” Carrie said. “As a parent, it definitely has the flexibility and convenience for her to just work from an office on the farm and flexibility in her schedule as well. But yet, on the flip of that, she still gets a quality education, and probably even better — more one-on-one than I think you might get in a public school, without the distractions of a public school.”

On their small family farm, Ava raises and shows horses, sheep, goats, beef cattle and dairy cattle. Her interest grew through her involvement in FFA at ARVA and directly led to the farm’s growth as well. Carrie added that while her family doesn’t come from a farming tradition, they’ve embraced this lifestyle thanks to Ava’s passion. “We’ve had our farm for seven years,” Carrie said. “And she’s been the motivation behind it, and all the animals that we have are just because of her.”

That dedication earned her one of the highest honors in the Arkansas FFA Association, where she received her State Future Farmers of America (FFA) Degree in 2024. As president of ARVA’s FFA chapter, Ava was also recognized as a finalist for the Star Farmer award, a distinction reserved for students who demonstrate exceptional skill and leadership in agriculture.

From Farmer to Finalist

In 2024, Ava served as president of ARVA’s Future Farmers of America (FFA) chapter, and her dedication earned her a State FFA Degree — one of the highest honors from the Arkansas FFA Association — at the 97th annual convention and expo in Hot Springs. She also became a finalist for the prestigious Star Farmer Award, an honor given to students who demonstrate exceptional leadership and commitment to agriculture. Out of more than 300 students who received their State FFA Degree, Ava was among the top three finalists for the Star Farmer award.

“You always hope that you get chosen for something like that, but when you actually do it’s unexpected,” she said. “And then all the other great FFA members that I went against — it makes me feel very humble that I was chosen as one of three finalists for it.”

To be eligible, members must meet rigorous requirements, including receiving the Chapter FFA Degree, completing at least 360 hours of systematic school instruction in agricultural education

and investing at least $1,000 or working 300 hours in a supervised agricultural experience program. Candidates must also demonstrate leadership skills through parliamentary law procedures, public speaking and service as an officer or committee member.

A Learning Model That Fits

Balancing school and agriculture isn’t easy, but ARVA’s adaptable learning structure allowed Ava to pursue her passion without sacrificing her education. Independent coursework and one-on-one support from teachers allowed her to manage school while staying active in FFA and caring for her animals.

She is grateful to her teachers and mentors at Arkansas Virtual Academy who encouraged her to apply for the State FFA Degree.

“Ava’s dedication to her agricultural education and leadership within the FFA organization exemplify the values we strive to instill in our students,” ARVA Head of School Amy Johnson said. “We are incredibly proud of her accomplishments and look forward to seeing her continue to excel in her future endeavors.”

Looking Ahead: A Future in Veterinary Medicine

Ava’s passion for agriculture and animal care is shaping her next chapter. This fall, she will attend College of the Ozarks, where she will major in animal science with a pre-veterinary track and minor in biology. With a 13% acceptance rate, the college’s rigorous academics and work-based learning model align with the experience she gained through her farm life and showing animals, with the support of ARVA and FFA.

Her character, leadership, academic achievements and time spent raising livestock played a key role in her acceptance. Now, she’s ready to build on that foundation and take the next step toward her goal of becoming a mixed veterinarian — a journey that reflects the power of hands-on learning and personalized education.

Empowering Students to Pursue Their Passions

Ava’s story is just one example of how ARVA helps students turn their interests into meaningful futures. Beyond academics, ARVA is committed to fostering a safe, supportive learning environment where students can explore their passions and develop the skills they need to succeed. By prioritizing kindness, empathy and strong family collaboration, ARVA empowers students to grow into confident, capable young adults.

With more than 20 years of experience delivering online education through K12’s innovative curriculum, ARVA provides students with the flexibility and resources to pursue their goals while receiving a high-quality education. Learn how Arkansas Virtual Academy can help your student take the next step toward their future — visit our How It Works page today!

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