At IVA High, no one gets lost in the crowd - not only is there no crowd (we’re intentionally small), but we consider personally getting to know each of our students one of the most important things we do. It’s this connection built between students and teachers - and the way our tuition-free school is designed - that makes our school a special place to learn. We pride ourselves on listening to our students and taking action on their needs, strengths and interests.
Whether a student enrolls as an incoming freshman, or transfers in as a junior, each member of our community is invited to show up as their true selves. Our staff listens to each student and creates opportunities to amplify the voices of our community. Here are a few examples of how we lift student voice and take action on what we hear:
🔸Our small school provides a safe setting that fosters strong relationships and 1:1 support, ensuring every voice is heard.
🔸Class offerings at IVA High evolve and grow based on student interests and changing needs.
🔸We hold frequent community meetings to address current events and school-wide issues.
🔸Students' wisdom and wonder are considered in curriculum decisions, making learning relevant and authentic.
🔸Our student ambassadors take an active role in school event coordination and enrollment efforts. Students assist with planning and executing school events, lead tours for prospective students and families, share their experiences on Q&A panels, and visit middle schools to lead activities. Their knowledge, leadership, and enthusiasm help transition new and prospective students into our school community, while they continue to contribute to a thriving school culture.
🔸Each member of our community has the right to contribute and critique, and is granted the same access, opportunity, respect and power as the others.
🔸Staff seeks student input and ideas on school-wide initiatives from academic projects to our backyard renovations.
🔸Clubs at IVA High are student and staff led and frequently developed based upon student interest.
🔸Students engage in community norm development, authentic relationship building, and self-reflection. Our students feel supported to dig deep, ask questions and take risks.
🔸Our exceptional counseling team (with a 1:33 ratio!) equips students with the tools they need to navigate young adulthood.
🔸Students are empowered to lead initiatives that benefit the entire student body - everything from dances to the Exhibition of Learning and poetry slams to entrepreneurial fairs.
We recognize that learning is for the learner – and our learners have the power to shape and co-create the learning experience with us. At IVA High, we listen and respond and always care.
We want YOU to find your voice, with us. If you’re struggling in a larger high school and think you might benefit from small classes, caring teachers and programs designed to help you connect and belong, we encourage you to enroll at IVA High. We can help make the transfer process a breeze - contact us today!
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 limitless options for their future; they stay for smaller, safer learning in a vibrant, caring community. IVA High - Curious Minds, Empowered Community - Join Us.