NC North Carolina News

Students with autism are finding success with a new approach to online learning.  After her autistic son’s difficulties in traditional classrooms, Germantown, MD mother Kimberly sought an educational solution to better fit his needs.

Her son, Keelan, had difficulty focusing in classrooms as a sixth-grader, despite traditional approaches to help him, including an individualized education plan (IEP) provided by his school, and even a change in schools. Keelan was easily distracted and overwhelmed in classrooms, according to his mother.

Kimberly said she was discouraged by the inability of traditional schools to overcome Keelan's lack of progress.  She also wanted him to learn at a pace that he could manage.

Keelan Denny | Submitted

"It was like schools had given up on him ever learning," said Kimberly.

Kimberly turned to Acellus Academy, a self-paced online learning program.  She has since determined it is the best program to maintain Keelan's interest and focus on his schoolwork.

"Keeping my son’s attention while also not overwhelming him with schoolwork was the toughest part," she said.

Since enrolling Keelan in the Acellus program, his ability to learn has improved.  Kimberly attributes this in part to the program’s approach of focusing each lesson on a single concept. Acellus provides a unique feature for autistic students because it adapts to each students' needs and identifies issues that prevent or undermine their academic progress.

The program caters to students from kindergarten through 12th grade, and provides instruction in the core subjects of science, math, language arts and reading.  The Acellus system provides individualized curriculum for every student. Acellus Academy is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), a regional accreditation agency.

Another advantage for autistic students is that the system’s instruction evolves with each student. This helps students develop their strengths and master the curriculum at their own pace and through approaches that work for them. The program allows parents to plan their children's lessons and study times to fit their unique needs.

This year, Kimberly tested Keelan's academic progress at the end of the school session through a standardized assessment available to both home-schooled and public school students.  The results indicate that Keelan is now learning at the level of 11th graders.

"I was completely shocked at the amount of stuff he knew," Kimberly said.

She said that since his switch to Acellus Academy, Keelan enjoys school and has regained focus on his school work.

Parents of students with autism can obtain more information about the Acellus Academy through the educational provider's website.