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A Guide to Enrolling in Gifted and Talented Programs Online

Finding the right learning environment for gifted and twice-exceptional students isn’t easy—especially when traditional schools aren’t meeting their needs. For many families, online education is a better fit. If you’re searching for gifted and talented programs online, here’s a simple guide to how it works at Scholars Academy and what to expect from the process.

Understanding the Needs of Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Students

Public school systems often rely heavily on standardized teaching and testing, which doesn’t support students who learn differently. This is especially true for twice-exceptional (2e) students—those who are both gifted and have learning differences like ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dysgraphia, or dyscalculia.

Scholars Academy was founded specifically to support this population. It provides a flexible, accredited education that meets students where they are. Students are not forced into one-size-fits-all grade levels but are encouraged to grow at their own pace. Online programs are available for K–12 students and emphasize small-group learning and hands-on experiences, even in a virtual format.

What Makes Scholars Academy’s Online Program Different

The Virtual Gifted Academy at Scholars Academy offers K–12 education to gifted students worldwide. It’s designed for students who need a more customized and supportive academic structure than a typical online school might offer.

Here’s what sets it apart:

  • Individualized curriculum tailored to each student’s strengths and growth areas.
  • Teachers with extensive experience in gifted and twice-exceptional education.
  • An emphasis on asynchronous development—understanding that students may advance rapidly in one area while needing more support in another.
  • Focus on experiential, hands-on learning that works even in an online setting.

Because of the school’s deep experience with neurodiverse learners, they are equipped to help students who might be excelling academically but struggling with social development—or vice versa.

Step-by-Step Guide to Enrollment

If you’re considering enrolling your child in gifted and talented programs online, here’s how the process works with Scholars Academy:

1. Learn About the School’s Mission and Structure

Start by exploring the core values of Scholars Academy. The school is double-accredited by Accreditation International (Ai) and the National Council for Private School Accreditation (NCPSA). Its mission is to support the full growth of gifted and twice-exceptional students through flexible and individualized learning.

2. Review the Program Options

Scholars Academy offers three core learning models:

  • Virtual Gifted Academy: K–12 online education for students anywhere in the world.
  • Scholars Academy for Pre-Professional Dancers: For students engaged in pre-pro ballet programs, offering flexible learning schedules.
  • Scholars Academy in Downtown Albemarle, NC: Now a K–12 in-person program, located near the Pfeiffer University Center for Health Sciences.

For online learners, the Virtual Gifted Academy is the focus. It mirrors the same personalized, experiential approach offered on campus.

3. Reach Out for a Consultation

Unlike large online education providers, Scholars Academy invites personal contact. The admissions staff encourages families to reach out to discuss their child’s specific learning profile, strengths, and needs. Whether your child has felt held back by rigid structures or hasn’t flourished in a traditional school, this consultation is a key part of making sure the program is a fit.

4. Understand the Admissions Timing

Enrollment is open year-round, which means you don’t have to wait for the typical academic calendar. That said, many students enroll in spring for classes that start in the fall. This flexibility makes it easier for families managing transitions or seeking immediate support for a struggling student.

5. Complete the Necessary Forms and Placement Steps

Once you’ve decided to move forward, the school will provide guidance on completing enrollment forms and determining appropriate placement levels. Because of the emphasis on individualized learning, the school may assess different academic areas to better understand where your child is thriving and where they might need support.

Common Concerns About Online Gifted Education

Some families hesitate to pursue online education because they worry about a lack of social interaction or engagement. At Scholars Academy, small group sizes and experiential activities help combat those concerns. The teachers are also trained specifically in how to work with students who may have asynchronous development—those who, for example, read at a college level but struggle with age-appropriate social skills.

Another concern is whether an online program can really be tailored to a child’s needs. At Scholars Academy, that’s the foundation of the curriculum. The school doesn’t just accommodate different learning styles—it’s built for them.

Why Accreditation Matters

Accreditation is another key factor in choosing a program. Scholars Academy is accredited by both Accreditation International (Ai) and the National Council for Private School Accreditation (NCPSA). This ensures the quality and recognition of the education your child receives.

Support Beyond the Classroom

The school’s blog, Empowering Tidbits, offers insight into how teachers approach curriculum development, asynchronous learning, and support strategies for gifted students. It’s written by the faculty and gives families a behind-the-scenes look at the educational philosophy in action.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for gifted and talented programs online that truly understand your child’s unique strengths and challenges, Scholars Academy offers a personalized, accredited, and flexible path forward. With year-round enrollment, experienced teachers, and a proven approach to twice-exceptional education, the Virtual Gifted Academy can be the change your child needs.

Ready to get started? Contact Scholars Academy today to learn how their online K–12 program can support your gifted learner.