University View Academy (UVA) diverse learner students and teachers moved and grooved to the beat with a Spring Bloom Dance in celebration of International Dance Day at the end of April. Attendees and their families enjoyed games, photos, food, and the UVA Lynx Den’s esports arena. Several UVA teachers and faculty members visited the Lynx Den throughout the day, some volunteering to lead line dances and fun exercise routines.
“The idea for the dance grew out of our ongoing effort to create more opportunities for students and faculty to come together in meaningful and inclusive ways,” said UVA diverse learners teacher Barbara Hedge. “We wanted to provide experiences that help students build social and functional skills while also creating a strong sense of community.”
Hedge has worked in education for close to 20 years. Her teaching experience includes Gifted education and working with students with disabilities. She has been a part of UVA’s diverse learner LEAP Connect program, also known as the Applied Pathway program, for four years.
“I get to see real, measurable growth in students from the time they enter my classroom to the time they transition to their next setting,” Hedge said. “My favorite part of the job is watching students discover what they are capable of when instruction is individualized and when they are given the right support and encouragement.”
The Applied Pathway program at UVA prepares students for LEAP Connect, the Louisiana alternate statewide assessment. The program provides students with an alternative path to completing high school that focuses on their unique abilities and future goals, and culminates in either a Certificate of Achievement or an Alternate Diploma. Applied Pathway teachers work to create individualized learning experiences that help students grow academically, socially, and functionally.
“Teaching LEAP Connect requires a highly individualized approach,” Hedge said. “Every student learns differently, so lessons are often adapted based on each student’s strengths, communication style, learning pace, and support needs. Our goal is not only academic growth, but also helping students build confidence, independence, communication skills, and functional life skills. We work to create an environment where students feel successful, supported, and encouraged to grow at their own pace while still being challenged to reach their full potential.”
In addition to academics, Applied Pathway provides opportunities for students to socialize and build skills through events. The Spring Bloom Dance and a sensory exploration day earlier in the year encouraged teachers to continue expanding event opportunities.
“Looking ahead, we already have a future teacher meet-and-greet planned, along with additional social and sports activities for the upcoming year,” Hedge said. “We also hope to host events in different areas across the state so that more Applied Pathway students have the opportunity to participate.”
UVA works collaboratively with students and parents to provide the necessary tools, guidance, and support resources needed for all students to succeed. Learn more about how our students thrive by following University View Academy on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.
University View Academy is Louisiana’s premier tuition-free K-12 online school. We offer a flexible, personalized education choice for residents across Louisiana that is powered by state-certified teachers and supported by in-person Micro Academies.
