A First Grader Finds Confidence and Independence Through Online School 

At only six years old, Sommer is proving what can be possible when learning is designed to truly meet a student where they are. As a first grader in the HVAM program at Stride K12, Sommer has been enrolled in online school since kindergarten. During that time, she’s blossomed academically, socially, and personally. She has done so all while maintaining a remarkable level of independence for her age. 

Sommer’s family chose to go the online learning route with the goal of having flexibility. They wanted a school environment that would allow Sommer to succeed academically while still leaving room for the activities and experiences that matter most to her. 

Online school at HVAM offered just that. Sommer has more time for extracurriculars like karate, which she enjoys, and she also now has a safe and positive learning environment and a reduced exposure to potential negative influences from an in-person environment. 

Having that type of flexibility and positive atmosphere has paid off. Academically, she has made significant progress since starting online school. She especially enjoys reading and has been drawn to books like Fox Is Late and Fox the Tiger, which she loves so much that she often draws pictures of the characters afterward. While she is currently a first grader, she’s already working at a second-grade level in math. That achievement is due to both her curiosity of the subject as well as the personalized pace that online learning provides. One of her favorite tools is called “Math Bears,” which help make abstract concepts more hands-on and engaging. 

Without the rigid structure of a traditional school day, Sommer is able to focus on her lessons and then transition easily into her extracurricular activities that support her growth. In addition to karate, she has recently discovered a new creative passion, which is watching YouTube videos that teach her how to draw. It has quickly become her favorite hobby. These interests help build discipline, confidence, and physical strength.  

Being able to have that balance has helped her develop strong time management skills and has also provided her with a sense of ownership over her learning. Both of those qualities are rare for a student of her age. Beyond academics, though, her social development has been just as impactful. Through HVAM, Sommer participates in all available field trips to blend virtual learning with real-world experiences. These outings have included trips to Greenfield Village, local apple orchards, and a recent ice-skating experience that she thoroughly enjoyed. In fact, she loved it so much that her family is already planning another ice-skating outing so she can try it again. These experiences provide her with meaningful one-on-one time with teachers and help her gain confidence in navigating new environments. 

 In addition to her extracurricular activities, Sommer spends time giving back to her community. She has been able to contribute to initiatives like a toy drive at a local hospital, demonstrating how the online schedule provides the flexibility to balance schoolwork with hobbies and service. 

Sommer has thrived at such a young age in this type of online learning environment, and it has provided a strong academic foundation while also helping her develop social confidence and explore her passions, all while learning at a pace and in an environment that truly works for her. 

To learn more about how online learning can help your student thrive both inside and outside the classroom, visit our academics page.