Featured Events

Shine Special Needs Basketball January 10th - February 14th

Shine Special Needs Basketball Ministry in partnership with Exceptional Access (January 10th - February 14th- Saturdays 2:00-3:30 PM at Second Presbyterian Church)

Events Calendar

2026

January

Saturday

Shine Special Needs Basketball January 10th - February 14th

2:00-3:30 PM

10 January Saturday 2:00-3:30 PM

Shine Special Needs Basketball

Our Latest Work & Contribution

Publication & presentation

Publications

Publications Pavlovic, M., Santos, J., (In progress). The Role of Physical Activity, Midline Crossing, and Hand Motions in Supporting Dyslexia Indicators in Elementary School Students. To be submitted to The Journal of Early Intervention (JEI).

Pavlovic, M., Santos, J., (In progress). Assessing Midline Crossing Ability as a Marker for Dyslexia: A Comparative Study. To be submitted to Journal of Learning Disabilities (JLD).

Pavlovic, M., Casey, L., Simonton, K. L., (In progress). Athletes with dyslexia and their experience within the inclusive sport: What is the influence of the coach? Submitted to The Physical Educator.

Pavlovic, M., Casey, L., Simonton, K. L., (In press). Exploring relationships between youth athletes’ perceptions of their coaches, coaching climates and athlete personal/social development need support. Submitted to Movement & Sport Sciences - Science & Motricité.

Layne, T. E., Simonton, K. L., Brown, B., & Pavlovic, M. (2023). Coach experiences during a pandemic: Navigating change in a challenging environment. The Sport Journal. 28. 1-17.

Pavlovic, M., Simonton, K. L., & Casey, L. (2022). Inclusive practices in physical education: Considerations for students with Dyslexia. Journal of Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance, 93(6), 15-21.

Presentations

Pavlovic, M., Simonton, K. L., & Casey, L. (April 2023). Youth athlete’s perceptions of climate, emotions, and their personal/social development. Paper presented at the national conference of the Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE) America. Seattle, WA.

Pavlovic, M., Simonton, K. L., & Casey, L. (April 2022). Youth athlete’s perceptions of climate, emotions, and their personal/social development. Paper presented at the national conference of the Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE) America. New Orleans, LA.

Layne, T., Simonton, K., Brown, B., & Pavlovic, M. (April 2022). Coach experiences during a pandemic: Emotions, labor, exhaustion, and coping. Paper presented at the national conference of the Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE) America. New Orleans, LA.

Pavlovic, M., Simonton, K. L., & Casey, L. (April 2021). Inclusive practices in physical education: Considerations for students with Dyslexia. Session presented at the Tennessee Association of Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance. Murfreesboro, TN.

Professional Memberships

Louisiana Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance. Founded in 1934, the aim of this organization is to improve the quality of life through health and fitness and recreational activities. LAHPERD is an affiliate of SHAPE America (Society of Health and Physical Educators).

Society of Health and Physical Educators serves as the voice for 200,000+ health and physical education professionals across the United States. The organization’s extensive community includes a diverse membership of health and physical educators, as well as advocates, supporters, and 50+ state affiliate organizations.

The Tennessee Branch of the International Dyslexia Association was formed to increase awareness about Dyslexia in the state of Tennessee. TN IDA supports efforts to provide information regarding appropriate language arts instruction to those involved with language-based learning differences and to encourage the identity of these individuals at-risk for such disorders as soon as possible.

Partner

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FAQ

What types of programs does Exceptional Access offer?

We provide a variety of programs including adaptive fitness, yoga & stretch, aquatics, sport-specific coaching, rhythm and executive function support, and personalized nutrition coaching. Each program is designed to support functional movement, strength, and overall well-being.

Are your programs customized to individual needs?

Yes! Every session is tailored to meet each participant’s unique abilities and goals, ensuring safe, effective, and meaningful experiences.

Do you offer group classes or only one-on-one sessions?

We offer both! Participants can join small group classes for social engagement or schedule individualized sessions for personalized support.

Who can participate in your programs?

Our programs are open to individuals of all abilities, from children to adults. We adapt activities to meet each participant’s needs, ensuring everyone can benefit.

Do I need a referral to join?

No referral is required. You can contact us directly to discuss your goals and find the best program for you or your family member.

Can adults and children participate together?

While most programs are grouped by age or ability for safety and effectiveness, we also provide family-friendly and multi-age opportunities in certain sessions.

How do I sign up for a class or session?

You can sign up through our website, email, or by calling our office. We’ll help you choose the program and schedule that works best for your needs.

Are there virtual or at-home options?

Yes, some programs can be adapted for virtual or in-home participation, providing flexible ways to engage in wellness and skill-building.

How long is each session?

Session lengths vary depending on the program, typically ranging from 30 minutes to one hour. We tailor the timing to match the participant’s goals and energy level.

How much do your programs cost?

Pricing varies by program type and session format. Contact us for detailed pricing information and to find the option that fits your needs.

Do you accept insurance or funding assistance?

While we don’t directly bill insurance, some programs may qualify for funding assistance. We are happy to provide guidance on options available to you.

What qualifications do your instructors have?

Our team consists of trained professionals with experience in adaptive fitness, special education, wellness coaching, and therapeutic support. Safety and individualized attention are always a top priority.

How do you ensure safety for participants with special needs?

All programs are carefully designed to accommodate varying abilities. Instructors provide supervision, modify exercises as needed, and maintain a safe, supportive environment.

What if I need additional support during a session?

Our staff are trained to provide one-on-one assistance and adapt activities as necessary to ensure every participant can engage comfortably and confidently.

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When Liam first joined our Memphis program, he struggled with balance and confidence. With a custom fitness plan, gentle encouragement, and steady support, he began to thrive. Today, Liam walks taller—literally and figuratively—proud of every step he takes. His smile says it all: he's strong, confident, and unstoppable.