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Ever wondered how we empower our students to confidently and boldly share their learning at the Exhibition of Learning (EoL)? Attendees at our favorite event of the year get to see perfectly polished presentations, but rarely get to see how the pearl is made - there’s a lot going on behind the scenes (i.e. at school) to get to the finished project. Here’s the scoop on how our tuition-free high school prepares for our cornerstone event that draws in the whole community. Be sure to read to the end for your invitation to the 2025 event!
What is the Exhibition of Learning?
Held each spring at IVA High, the EoL is our student-generated, public presentation of the skills, knowledge, and deep thinking acquired during project learning. It is a celebration of rigorous, engaging, and authentic learning, where students showcase their growth to a real audience of family, peers, community members, and professionals. They engage the intellectual virtues model of education to develop character and life skills in addition to a school project. EoL is more than a school presentation; it’s a rite of passage that reflects a year of student effort and discovery.
The presentations can take many forms – from art galleries to plays or student-led forums – and all showcase the deeply personal learning that has taken place both in and out of the classroom. As students share their learning, attendees engage with the presenter by listening attentively and asking meaningful questions.
The vibe at the EoL is nothing short of awesome! Students report that even though presentations can be nerve-wracking, they ultimately feel empowered as experts and presenters. Our community members (from little sisters and brothers, to grandparents and great grandparents) practice virtues like curiosity and open-mindedness as they interact with the exhibits. And families love seeing their competent students confidently communicate their learning with others. Add in some delicious food and the joyful spirit of our amazing community, and the EoL is enjoyed by everyone.
The Process of the Exhibition of Learning
IVA High students and teachers begin preparing for the EoL months in advance by identifying an essential question. These burning questions are usually complex, with many diverse paths that can be explored on the way to an answer, and lead students to a deeper understanding of the concept. As students explore the topic, they embody the role they are learning about - anthropologists, journalists, environmental scientists and artists - and utilize the same process that someone in the field might use to advance their own knowledge.
Like all learning, the journey from a question to a polished presentation is anything but linear. Rather than “delivering knowledge,” teachers play a pivotal role, guiding students toward resources, asking questions to deepen understanding and even taking field trips to places like local museums and libraries for fact-finding missions. Meanwhile, students take center stage: They undertake experiments, curate artifacts, gather knowledge, prepare and rehearse presentations and even promote the event. There are steps forward, and steps backward, a-ha moments and inevitably a few mistakes on the way to these complex and meaningful completed projects.
During the EoL, our students are the experts in their field. They lead the presentations, interact with participants and even document the event for our community. Students also participate as attendees - they learn to engage with each other’s work by asking thoughtful questions and providing a meaningful critique.
The Benefits of the Exhibition of Learning
The Exhibition of Learning offers profound benefits to the entire IVA High community. Students gain ownership of their projects, building creative confidence, personal connections and the agency to go after their inquiries. Beyond presentation skills, students develop the ability to listen, critique, and reflect on their learning. Ultimately, the EoL empowers students to take action, serve others, and see how their work shapes school culture and beyond.
🌟Join Us at the 2025 Spring Exhibition of Learning!🌟
🗓️ Thursday, April 10, 2025
⏰ 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
📍 IVA High, 1637 Long Beach Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90813
This spring’s theme—“We Are All…”—celebrates the diverse strengths and perspectives that shape our community. Students will present projects that highlight curiosity, resilience, collaboration, and growth.
Come see how IVA High students are shaping the future—together!
About IVA High
IVA High is a fully accredited, tuition-free public high school in Long Beach, California with a mission to empower students to think well: creatively, critically, and with a capacity for self-growth. Our learner-centered approach puts students in charge of their education, while dual enrollment and paid internships transform learning into action. Students come for college prep, STEAM and exploratory pathways for their future; they stay for smaller, safer learning in a vibrant, caring community. Get to know us on social media @ivahigh and on the web at www.ivahigh.org IVA High - Curious Minds, Empowered Community - Join Us!
