Innovation Heights Academy

Why Innovation Heights Academy was nominated

Innovation Heights Academy strives to be a flexible learning option for students. They are a half day program, where students can engage in experiential learning, practice habits of life balance, and accelerate their progress toward graduation. To provide flexibility for students, Innovation Heights Academy operates on a half day model. Students come to school Monday through Thursday for either the morning (8:30-11:30am) or afternoon session (12:00-3:00pm). Students have the opportunity to progress toward graduation faster. Students can earn up to 9 credits in a year, as compared to 6 credits in a year in a traditional model. Instruction at Innovation Heights Academy is two hours each day. Students engage in project-based learning through cross-curricular learning blocks. Learning focuses on developing real-world skills which will be related to students’ individual goals. In order to ensure that they are preparing students to be successful in life beyond high school, they allow space for students to learn about life balance and wellness. Students spend one hour a day focusing on physical, mental, and social wellness. Fridays are required for students who are struggling with attendance, behavior, or grades each week. Weekly, students meet with their advisor to discuss their progress toward their goals and determine if they need assistance re-engaging in their work. If students are making adequate progress on their goals, students can still come on Friday for access to clubs, community partners, and other connections., As a small alternative school serving grades 9–12, Innovation Heights is uniquely positioned to reimagine learning through deep relationships, individualized support, and responsive design. Innovation Heights is laying the groundwork for systems that reflect its values: honoring students’ identities, fostering belonging, and creating pathways that meet learners where they are. Their willingness to test ideas, listen to students, and iterate is a powerful indicator of a school committed not just to change, but to meaningful transformation.