It’s widely recognized that not every person is built the same, fits the same mold, or learns in the same manner. Similarly, not all students mesh well within the public school system. With the slogan “We Are Renegades,” Innovation High School was founded on this principle—allowing students to make more choices in their education and the chance to explore the wide world of options available to them. With many families in the Spokane community looking for something “different,” Innovation High School strives to make that difference for the students who need it.
Innovation High School is no ordinary high school. Touring the grounds, you’ll discover bright colors painted on the walls throughout, creative projects displayed everywhere, bolts of fabric unfurling next to sketched fashion flats, funky and unique light-system chandeliers, fully open classrooms with large clear windows where students and teachers wave as you walk by, trendy and youthful teachers sitting on tables in close-knit circles for group-work sessions, emotional-support animals lounging under desks, student-built furniture pieces being utilized, moving partition-walls for creatively shifting the classroom dynamic, a licensed mental health and family therapist’s office on-site, and student-run entrepreneurship in action.
Innovation High School’s Mission & Vision
Innovation High School’s core mission and vision is to foster an energetic learning environment where creativity flourishes, and challenges are embraced as opportunities for growth. They cultivate curiosity and thoughtfulness within the student body through rigorous academics, vibrant enrichment programs, and a commitment to critical thinking.
Dedicated to building strong, supportive relationships within their school’s community, they work to ensure every student feels a sense of belonging. Their commitment to equity and diversity inspires them to create an inclusive environment where every individual is valued, preparing each student to thrive in college, career, and beyond by instilling innovative thinking and a passion for lifelong learning. The founders, teachers, and faculty wish to ensure all students (regardless of where they come from) have the opportunity to excel academically, emotionally, and socially.
Innovation High School’s Educational Approach
With the exact graduation requirements of every high school in Washington, this school offers all the typical classes you’d find at any public school, along with a unique culture that leads to the exploration and personalization of elective courses. While traditional schools do a great job providing option programs, sports, and clubs, IHS takes it upon themselves to continually look at where they can “fill the gaps.”
Unique elective involvements are offered alongside typical academic offerings at any traditional school. You’ll find a community atmosphere with smaller classroom settings and profound student-teacher relationships here. Their smaller scale allows them to adjust faster to the changing times, permitting students to always receive what’s important to them. Flexibility allows staff to serve each student to the greatest extent.
“We have a unique physical building and unique opportunities for learning compared to traditional public schools,” shares Paige Albrecht, CEO. “Most students who come from the traditional setting do fantastic [here]. We continue to encourage students to make choices that best fit their learning.”
To ensure students are equipped for whatever dream they wish to follow after graduation, IHS integrates campus tours, college admissions visits, trade fairs, company outings, internships, volunteer programs, and more. Witnessing this wide variety of options, students can experience different career paths and educate themselves regarding their future.
With continuous advancements in AI and other technologies, IHS is constantly learning and working to best utilize the available resources. “We strive to ensure students have access to the appropriate tools to advance their learning and be successful,” outlined Albrecht.
IHS does everything they can to effectively support each individual student, regardless of varying needs. Knowing each student on a personal level opens communication lines between students and teachers. Their Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) Team meets regularly to identify gaps in student growth based on attendance, academics, and behavior. These meetings ensure that scholars needing additional support or facing barriers to education are not overlooked.
Innovation High School is an excellent scholastic option for students who want to explore beyond the public school system. High value is placed on “student voice” and choice regarding educational avenues.
Unique Offerings Available at Innovation High School
9th Grade Success – This class teaches young adults how to be students! An entry course teaches kids to be organized, manage their behavior, and study practices for success.
Crew Class – Social and emotional learning classes take place once per week. A college and career readiness course also occurs weekly.
Dual-Credit/Advanced-Placement – Dual-credit is offered for Cultural Studies, English, and Science. Advanced placement classes are available in all subjects, including art, music and fashion design.
OSHA Certification – “Core Construction” allows students to receive dual credit while becoming Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)-certified.
The Grind – A student/teacher-run coffee shop open during break and the morning before classes start. Students can craft specialty drink menus, get experience as a barista, and work for tips.
On-Site Therapy – Foundations Family Support‘s office is found within the walls of IHS. This mental health and wellness service is easy to access, allowing students to attend their sessions and then get right back to class.
Clubs – Gardening, Dungeons & Dragons (DND), Gay Straight Alliance (GSA), Black Student Union (BSU), bands formed via the music program, theater, volleyball, and a bowling team.
“We are excited about everything we do here,” confirmed Albrecht. “[We have] the ability to showcase our students’ work during concerts, exhibitions, and performances for the community.”
Student Culture, Community Impact & Involvement
“School culture is something we are very proud of!” Albrecht explained excitedly. “Running a ‘house system’ (much like Harry Potter), we host monthly events and competitions that stir up school spirit.” Examples of events and competitions include holiday feasts, food drives, penny drives, and clothing drives. All events are organized by the ASB (Associated Student Body), which works internally to ideate unique activities in which everyone desires to participate. IHS also offers dances, music-program concerts, theater productions, and more.
“Many Spokane locals don’t even know IHS exists or about our incredible offerings,” mentioned Albrecht. “An internal goal this year is to raise awareness in the community so people can truly understand who we are and what we do.” IHS invites you to “Come see for yourselves!”
Each year, IHS students participate in several community-based volunteer activities. Their efforts have been focused on cleaning up areas in Spokane, food delivery for those in need, and other student-decided initiatives. Currently, IHS works closely with Gonzaga, Eastern Washington University, Central Washington University, Washington State University, several community colleges, and other non-profit organizations such as art galleries, restorative communities, and The Lands Council.
IHS strives to instill the importance of community service and encourages students to be productive members of their community and society. With a love for the Spokane community, they wish to grow their partnerships and connections with other organizations, businesses, and people.
Admissions Process, Family Involvement & Inclusivity
When it comes to admissions, IHS meets with every prospective student and their family. “This initial meeting is very important in the enrollment process and ensures that we fully understand the unique needs of each student prior to enrollment,” noted Albrecht.
At IHS, a very diverse population is served. Staff members receive regular training on inclusion and diversity and students do a fantastic job safeguarding that their peers are protected and learning alongside them. Each year, they welcome foreign exchange students to their program as well. “Having a diverse population makes for great Socratics, allowing everyone to learn and grow together,” said Albrecht.
Parents and guardians stay engaged with Innovation High School by volunteering in the building, at school events, or in other ways they are willing and able. By volunteering and participating, parents help increase student success. This year, a parent leadership group that supports enrollment and marketing efforts was launched, and IHS is excited to watch family involvement nurture the future.
Funding Challenges for IHS
Charter schools in Washington are considered public schools. “This means they are tuition-free, open to all, and subject to public oversight,” says Albrecht. “Funding for charter public schools is allocated per student by Washington State. Unfortunately, students at charter public schools are not currently supported by the funding made available in local school levies.”
“We serve the same students that Spokane Public Schools (SPS) does, yet often our students do not benefit from the same additional funding and grants that SPS students receive,” noted Albrecht. “Being looked at as an equal in our community is our goal. The more people who begin to understand what a charter school actually is, the better off we will be.”
They are thankful to receive some outside grants from different organizations. This funding puts them in closer alignment with surrounding schools. However, no money is ever promised. “We are always looking for additional connections [and donors] to continue to support our students’ learning,” adds Albrecht.
You can impact IHS student lives by making a donation today!
Growth, Goals & Future for Innovation High School
With the addition of the C.R.E.A.T.E traits (Curiosity, Resilience, Empowerment, Appreciation, Thoughtfulness, Excellence), more student buy-in, and additional program offerings, Innovation High School is excited about the direction they’re headed in.
Currently, they are in the process of opening a retail shop on the front corner of campus. Here, all students (and their families) will be able to sell handmade art, goods, and products to the public on consignment.
To support students in need, IHS is developing a “school clothing closet” by gathering donations from other students, families and the community. They imagine this to be full of quality clothing, hats, gloves, jackets, shoes, toiletries, and feminine hygiene products.
“We would like to continue to grow, support our students, get our name out in the community, and ensure everyone knows who we are,” finalized Albrecht.
Now, enrolling students in grades 9-12, anyone interested in learning more about Innovation High School should visit their website, call the front office, and schedule a tour!
