Innovation Academy

Demographics

Percentage of students*

Why Innovation Academy was nominated

Innovation Academy was designed to weave the sciences into all aspects of learning using an integrated thematic approach to instruction. We engage students in "hands-on" and "minds-on" relevant curriculum and instruction that utilizes technology and the arts to enrich and encourage learning. We offer a well-rounded education in reading, writing, social studies as well as instruction in art, music, and physical education, which are all essential components of a quality elementary education. In grades K-2 we use Integrated Thematic Units of Instruction, grades 3-5 use a Project Based Learning approach. ITUs are teacher-driven units of study based on highly engaging STEM themes, current scientific or engineering events, student interest, voice and choice, students as teachers and the AZCCRS. Project Based Learning (PBL) students are learning by being actively engaged in real-world and personally meaningfully projects. AZCCRS are imbedded in all projects. Some current projects include; Turtle Pond, the Grove, Mars Base, City of Ember, Long Walk to Water, Wax Museum. We have a 90 minute math block, ELA is taught through STEM book studies, research, writing (research papers) and presentations. What we have seen is that by using ITU and PBL approaches to instruction, our students are highly engaged and excited about learning, which has increased student achievement and social emotional growth. Our students work collaboratively to critically think and problem solve. Innovation Academy is a 100% open enrollment STEM-focused pre-K-5 elementary school in the Amphitheater Public School District. Although Innovation Academy is located in the far north end of the school district, a more affluent region (the school was built in this location because this is where the school district owned land), our student population comes from all over the Tucson and the surrounding area. To provide equitable access for all students in the district, transportation is provided from all elementary schools for families wishing to attend Innovation. This purposeful design has helped to diversify the population of our students, families, and staff.

Student experience design

Innovation Academy is a STEM Focused PreK-5 elementary school. STEM Themes are used to teach all content areas. In grades PreK-2 we use STEM Integrated Thematic Units. In grades 3-5 we use a Project Based Learning approach. Students are engaged in hands-on, minds-on units of study throughout the day.

Core Practices

Core Practices	Length of Use
Assessments For Deeper Learning	5+ years
Project-based Learning	5+ years
SEL Integration School-wide	5+ years

All Practices

Advancement On Mastery

Blended Learning

Community And Business Partnerships

Competency/mastery-based Education

Competency Framework

Extended Learning Opportunities

Grading Policies Focus On Mastery

All Courses Designed For Inclusion

Individual Learner Profiles

Multi-tiered System Of Support (MTSS) In Academics

Multiple Opportunities To Demonstrate Mastery

Performance Based Assessment

SEL Curriculum

Student-led Conferences

Students Access Their Own Data

Student-led Goal Setting

Students Develop Projects

key reasons for innovating

Artifacts

85-90% of students at Innovation Academy are at or above grade level in Reading and Math based on the NWEA MAP. State Assessment data 2023 passing rates:3rd Grade ELA 70% Math 75%4th Grade ELA 89% Math 79%5th Grade ELA 59% Math 59% Students at Innovation Academy have the opportunity to demonstrate learning in a variety of ways: traditional assessments, projects, or presentations. Our students have a voice and a choice in their learning opportunities as well as the way they demonstrate learning.