How It Works

Curious How Online Learning Works?

With online learning, your child can learn at home or wherever there’s an internet connection while enjoying the benefits and support of a school program. They’ll complete a mix of online lessons and offline activities, using K12-provided books and materials.* State-licensed teachers provide instruction in virtual sessions called “Class Connects.”

ARVA Programs

Arkansas Virtual Academy (ARVA) uses quality curriculum from K12 designed to let students find the learning style that works best for them, allowing them to find their own path to success. Each online classroom offers engaging and relevant lessons that build on your child’s interests and abilities. Our career and college prep program also helps middle and high school students prepare for life after graduation.

elementary school icon

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

LEARN MORE
middle school icon

MIDDLE SCHOOL

LEARN MORE
high school icon

HIGH SCHOOL

LEARN MORE
career and prep icon

CAREER AND COLLEGE PREP

LEARN MORE

What’s my role as a parent?

You’ll play an active and important role as your child’s Learning Coach. Plan to:

  • Provide academic support, motivation, and guidance throughout the school year
  • Ensure your child is on track with assignments and coursework
  • Communicate with teachers
  • Report daily attendance

If you or your child’s legal guardian cannot fill this role, you can choose a family member, friend, or another trusted adult to be the Learning Coach.

woman and girl doing homeworks at home

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to attend Arkansas Virtual Academy (ARVA)?

Any student in grades K–12 who resides in Arkansas is eligible for full-time enrollment. Please note that your kindergartener must be five years old by August 1 of the upcoming school year in order to enroll.

How many of my children can I enroll in ARVA?

Because ARVA provides the lesson plans and materials needed for grades K–12, many parents find it easy to enroll multiple children in the program.

What does it cost to attend ARVA?

ARVA is a public school, so there is no tuition. We provide Arkansas-licensed teachers and instructional materials. Families who qualify also receive a loaner computer, printer, and internet stipend. Students and families will be responsible for providing some common household materials (such as printer ink and paper). Our enrollment consultants can help address your technological and computer questions and needs.

What is the attendance policy?

As Arkansas public school students, all ARVA students must comply with the state-required minimum number of 178 days and 1,078 instruction hours per grade level, which averages to 30 hours per week, six hours per day. Attendance is logged daily in the Online School by a parent or Learning Coach.

Can our family take a vacation during the school year?

The school calendar includes school holidays or vacation time. Whenever possible, family vacations should align with school vacation days. Parents are encouraged to contact their student’s teacher if they plan a vacation that does not coordinate with the school calendar. 

How much time will my child spend online?

In the younger grades, many of the online lessons include offline work. Students in grades K–2 spend about 30–40 percent of their time on the computer, while students in grades 3–5 spend about 50–60 percent of their time online. Screen time increases in middle school, and by high school, most of the school day is online.

How do students interact socially?

Students spend time with classmates online and through school outings, field trips, and other activities. In addition to school-based clubs, K12 online national clubs help connect students with like interests and passions.

*Course materials vary by course and school.