Saved Schools

Transformative Leadership Academy

Transformative Leadership Academy, nominated by an anonymous organization, is an elementary/middle/high school in Monahans, Texas, that describes itself as an independent (private) school serving learners from a primarily rural area.

Location Monahans, Texas

Governance Independent (Private) School

Grades Pre-Kindergarten, Elementary, Middle, High

Students 110

Locale Rural

Director Dr. Lindsey Balderaz

Demographics

Percentage of students*

2%

English Learners

20%

Free/Reduced Lunch

55%

Students with Disabilities

African American or Black 6%

American Indian/Alaska Native

Asian

Hawaiian or Pacific Islander

Hispanic or Latino 24%

White 46%

2+ Races

Why Transformative Leadership Academy was nominated

Using the Universal Design for Learning concept, the Transformative Learning Model truly integrates student centered learning with 21st century skills and achievement, preparing students to become the next generation of leaders.

Student experience design

At the Transformative Leadership Academy, we offer an innovative learning environment that empowers students to thrive through experiential learning, project-based activities, and technology integration. Our multidisciplinary approach promotes collaboration and critical thinking, while personalized mentorship and support ensure students reach their full potential. With a focus on innovative teaching methods and a commitment to fostering creativity and curiosity, our academy prepares students to become transformative leaders equipped to tackle the challenges of the future. 1. Experiential Learning: The academy places a strong emphasis on experiential learning, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. This hands-on approach helps students develop practical skills and gain a deeper understanding of the concepts they learn in the classroom. 2. Project-Based Learning: Students engage in project-based learning activities that encourage collaboration, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Students learn to apply their knowledge to solve complex challenges and develop innovative solutions by working on projects individually or in groups. 3. Technology Integration: The academy leverages technology to enhance the learning experience. Through online platforms, virtual simulations, and interactive tools, students have access to resources that facilitate personalized learning, foster creativity, and support their academic growth. 4. Multidisciplinary Approach: The curriculum at the academy is designed to integrate multiple disciplines, fostering a holistic understanding of complex issues and encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration. Students have the opportunity to explore diverse perspectives and develop a well-rounded skill set that prepares them for the demands of the modern workforce. 5. Mentorship and Support: Students at the Transformative Leadership Academy benefit from mentorship and support from faculty members, industry experts, and peers. This personalized guidance helps students set goals, navigate challenges, and maximize their potential, creating a supportive and nurturing learning environment. 6. Innovative Teaching Methods: The academy employs innovative teaching methods such as flipped classrooms, gamification, and interactive lectures to engage students and cater to diverse learning styles. By incorporating cutting-edge pedagogical approaches, the academy creates a dynamic and stimulating learning environment that inspires creativity and curiosity. 7. Social-Emotional Learning: At the Transformative Leadership Academy, we prioritize social-emotional learning to help students develop essential skills such as self-awareness, empathy, and relationship-building. Through SEL initiatives, students learn to manage emotions, set and achieve positive goals, and establish healthy relationships, fostering a supportive and inclusive community that enhances overall well-being and academic success. 8. Goal-Setting: Goal-setting is a fundamental aspect of the student experience at the Transformative Leadership Academy. Students are encouraged to set clear, achievable goals for their academic, personal, and professional growth. By defining their objectives and creating actionable plans to reach them, students cultivate a sense of purpose, motivation, and accountability, empowering them to pursue excellence and realize their full potential in a structured and focused manner. 9. Universal Design for Learning (UDL): The Transformative Leadership Academy embraces Universal Design for Learning to ensure that all learners, regardless of their diverse backgrounds and learning styles, have equal opportunities for success. By incorporating UDL principles into the curriculum and instructional design, the academy provides multiple means of representation, action and expression, and engagement to accommodate various learning preferences and needs. This inclusive approach not only supports individualized learning experiences but also fosters a more accessible and equitable educational environment where all students can thrive and reach their full potential.

Core Practices

Core Practices Length of Use

All Courses Designed For Inclusion

5+ years

Individual Learner Profiles

5+ years

Project-based Learning

5+ years

High Quality Instructional Materials

5+ years

Universal Design For Learning

5+ years

All Practices

Advancement On Mastery

Student Advisories

AI For Learning Materials

AI For Teacher Productivity

AI-assisted Tutoring

Anti-racist Practices

Apprenticeships

Assessments For Career Readiness

Assessments For Social-emotional Skills

Blended Learning

Career Advising & Support

Career Exploration

College Advising & Support

Community And Workforce Partnerships

Family And Community Support Services

Competency/mastery-based Education

Culturally Responsive Practices

Early College High School

Extended Learning Time

Flexible Staffing & Alternative Teaching Roles

Grading Policies Focus On Mastery

Higher Education Partnerships

Industry-aligned Learning Pathways

Internships

Individual Learning Paths

Mental Health Services

1:1 Mentoring

Multi-tiered System Of Support (MTSS) In Academics

Multi-age Classrooms

Industry Networking

Peer To Peer Support

Performance Based Assessment

Restorative Practices

SEL Curriculum

SEL Integration School-wide

Service Learning

Student-led Conferences

Students Access Their Own Data

Student-led Goal Setting

Self-paced Learning

Students Develop Projects

Trauma-informed Practices

Tutoring

Youth Employment Programs

key reasons for innovating

Demonstrate what’s possible for other schools

Improve school culture

Date Updated: 4/1/2026

*Canopy profile data is self-reported or sourced from NCES data, then verified by school leaders.