Cardinal Virtual Academy students find community as they thrive academically
- Shanda Crosby
- Aug 5
- 3 min read
Throw out any stereotypes you may have about virtual school. Our Cardinal Virtual Academy is meeting the needs of students with academic rigor, flexible scheduling, and personal connections.
More than a modern alternative to traditional classroom schooling, CVA is legit and thriving.
“It's real school. It is not a cop-out, and I think that's key,” said Alison Campbell, who was hired two years ago as the first CVA educator. “I want everyone to know that it is just as intentional as the in-person setting. There are daily lessons and assignments that are expected, just like if you were in person.”
The teaching staff has grown to five, serving around 300 students who are looking for a diverse set of academic options, and have not only found that but have found a safe space to learn and connect.
The student population serves grades 6-12 and includes dozens from private schools and several from homeschools.
“Some students are not comfortable in a large setting and so they kind of get lost in a sea of many, many students,” said Ms. Campbell. “They are getting things from us that a smaller setting couldn’t provide.”
BUILDING CONNECTIONS
One of the greatest strengths of CVA is the individual teacher-student connection formed through multiple Google meets each week.
“We love the meets more than any part of this job,” said teacher Kristin Hall. “That is the best part because it’s the time that we're really engaged with the kids. Having regular positive and personal interaction allows us to build strong connections.”
Besides the regular meets, CVA instructors are always available for individual academic help and/or check-in meetings that create a space for students to open up in ways they might not in a traditional classroom.
“In the classroom, you can get so caught up with your curriculum that you don't always get to build relationships with some of the quiet students,” Ms. Hall said. “We have really seen students thrive with these one-on-one interventions.”
CVA students have the freedom to design their schedules within structured guidelines, a game-changer for students who have jobs, take care of children, or help with care of family members.
The academy even accommodates unique lifestyles and careers. “Last year we had a model who was in California a lot and would join his Google Meets from different hotel rooms,” said Ms. Campbell. “We have ballet dancers, and even a semi-pro golfer.”
A hybrid option is available for those who want both virtual flexibility and in-person connection.
SETTING HIGH EXPECTATIONS
Despite the flexibility, expectations are high. “We check every four and a half weeks and if they aren’t doing their work and making progress, then we send them back to their base school,” said Ms. Campbell. “We also do meets to discuss their writing to make sure they are doing their own work.”
The holistic competencies of the Portrait of a Clark County Learner are incorporated in the virtual platform, ensuring their education is about more than letter grades.
“The success of the program reaches beyond academics,” Ms. Campbell says. “Are we helping them to learn how to communicate and how to advocate for themselves? We are always conscious of the greater goal.”
This growing community is based in the Cardinal Innovation Center, which also houses the Phoenix Academy and the district STEM program.
CIC Principal Dr. Lindsay Hale says CVA’s success depends on the strength of the teaching staff.
“The Academy’s strength lies in the dedication, flexibility, and innovation of its staff,” she said. “They go above and beyond to meet students where they are academically, socially, and emotionally, creating meaningful learning experiences that truly connect. Their commitment to personalized support is what makes CVA a successful and trusted option for students and families.”
EXPANDING OFFERINGS
This school year, the staff is looking to add more events and take more community field trips.
Ultimately, CVA offers something invaluable – the chance for students to grow into independent, confident learners on their own terms and alongside others.
“We want to be there for them, help them, and be their support system,” Ms. Hall said. “That’s the best part of the job.”
Whatever preconceived notions exist about online learning are taking a back seat to something much more meaningful.
“We’ve built a comprehensive program that gives students the tools to thrive,” said Dr. Hale, “whether they’re catching up, moving ahead, or seeking a flexible alternative to the traditional school day.”
