Charitable Programs at Arizona Virtual Academy, Insight Academy of Arizona Help Hundreds of Students, Families

(PHOENIX – Dec. 10. 2024) – Arizona Virtual Academy (AZVA) and Insight Academy of Arizona (ISAZ), two full-time, virtual, tuition-free public schools serving students throughout the state, announced the continuation of a more than decade-long tradition of supporting families in need through the school’s McKinney-Vento program. This year’s program collected more than 75 pounds of needed items through its Cold Weather Clothing Drive, while its Santa’s Helper List initiative fulfilled holiday wish lists. Together, these efforts will help more than 200 students and 125 families.

“Our McKinney-Vento initiatives have grown stronger every year, thanks to the unwavering dedication of nearly 200 staff members and teachers,” said Mindi Feldstein, McKinney-Vento Coordinator for AZVA and ISAZ. “This program is more than just providing resources; it’s about creating a network of care that ensures every student has the tools to thrive, both in school and life.”

The schools’ McKinney-Vento programs help students and families experiencing homelessness, as defined by the federal McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistant Act. The act aims to reduce barriers to education for homeless children and youth, helping them achieve educational stability and success despite their housing situation.

Since its inception, the McKinney-Vento program at AZVA and ISAZ has expanded its impact significantly. In recent years, the schools have used federal grants to provide emergency shelter, food assistance, clothing and instructional supplies to hundreds of families. This year, the schools assisted more than 200 students and 125 families, providing gift cards for groceries and other necessities in addition to physical resources.

AZVA and ISAZ’s Cold Weather Clothing Drive, funded through McKinney-Vento resources, focused on providing long-sleeved clothing, coats, socks, hats, gloves and other essentials to ensure students remain warm and safe during the colder months. This effort resulted in more than 75 pounds of clothing, school supplies and hygiene items being distributed to students identified as McKinney-Vento eligible.

“For more than a decade, this program has been a vital part of how we care for our students,” said Forrest Smith, Executive Director of Arizona Virtual Academy. “From meeting basic needs to spreading holiday cheer, our efforts exemplify the heart of our mission: to eliminate barriers and ensure all students have the opportunity to succeed.”

The schools’ Santa’s Helper List initiative was supported entirely by the generosity of AZVA and ISAZ teachers and staff, who “adopted” students and purchased items based on holiday wish lists submitted by families. This seasonal project provided students with items to bring joy and comfort during the holidays, while also reflecting the dedication of the schools’ educators to supporting their students beyond the classroom.

“This work reflects our schools’ broader commitment to fostering a supportive community that empowers families to overcome challenges,” Cedric Corbin, Executive Director of Insight Academy of Arizona, said.

Looking to 2025, AZVA and ISAZ plan to continue their dedication to families through additional initiatives, including Warm Weather and Summer Drives. These ongoing efforts reflect the schools’ enduring commitment to supporting their communities and ensuring every student has the necessary resources to succeed.

About Arizona Virtual Academy
Arizona Virtual Academy (AZVA) is an AdvancED-accredited, full-time online public charter school that serves Arizona students in kindergarten through 12th grade. As part of the Arizona public school system, AZVA is tuition-free and provides families the choice to access the curriculum and tools provided by K12, a portfolio brand of Stride, Inc. (NYSE: LRN). Stride offers learners of all ages a more effective way to learn and build skills for their future. For more information, visit azva.k12.com.

About Insight Academy of Arizona
Insight Academy of Arizona (ISAZ) is an AdvancED-accredited, full-time online public school that serves Arizona students in grades 7-12. As part of the Arizona public school system, ISAZ is tuition-free and provides families the choice to access the curriculum and tools provided by K12, a portfolio brand of Stride, Inc. (NYSE: LRN). Stride offers learners of all ages a more effective way to learn and build skills for their future. For more information about ISAZ, visit insightaz.k12.com.

About K12

For 25 years, K12 has been a national leader in online education, serving over three million learners. Dedicated to helping every student reach their full potential through inspired teaching and personalized learning, K12 delivers tech-driven and accessible solutions to prepare students for bright futures. Tuition-free schools and programs are available in 30 states. K12 is a portfolio brand of Stride, Inc. (NYSE: LRN).