Learning Through the Power of Play
Every challenge becomes an opportunity.
Every student belongs. Every day brings joy.
At Innova Academy, we transform learning into an adventure where students grow academically, socially, and emotionally through game-based experiences designed specifically for them.
A Different Kind of Middle School Experience
Innova Academy-INA was created to reimagine the middle school experience for students who deserve a learning environment built with their success in mind.
As a public charter school, we are launching with a founding class of 6th-grade scholars and expanding one grade level at a time through our intentional growth model. This allows us to build a strong culture, meaningful relationships, and personalized support for every student.
Welcome to Innova Academy-INA
Middle school can be one of the most important—and challenging—times in a child's life. Too often, students are overlooked during this critical transition. At Innova Academy-INA, we're changing that story.
Built with our community and for our community, Innova Academy-INA creates a learning environment where students are seen, valued, challenged, and celebrated. Through the power of play, meaningful relationships, and a strong village of support, we empower young people to discover their strengths and unlock their full potential.
Our Mission
Innova Academy-INA's mission is to empower students to succeed academically, socially, and emotionally by embracing the power of play.
Our Vision
Innova Academy-INA envisions a future where every individual is a lifelong learner, equipped with the skills and mindset to thrive in an ever-evolving world.
Our Story
Innova Academy-INA was founded to re-engage students during the pivotal middle school years and create an environment where learning feels exciting.
Together with families, educators, mentors, and community partners, we create a supportive environment where every student feels seen, valued, and empowered.
Learning Through the Power of Play
At Innova Academy-INA, play is more than recreation—it's a powerful tool for learning. Our game-based learning model transforms the classroom into an engaging environment where students are challenged to think critically, solve problems creatively, collaborate with others, and build confidence through meaningful experiences.
Every activity is intentionally designed to make learning interactive, relevant, and fun while helping scholars develop the academic knowledge and life skills they need to succeed in school and beyond.
Explore
Students investigate real-world challenges through curiosity-driven experiences.
Create
Scholars design solutions, projects, and ideas that demonstrate their understanding.
Collaborate
Teamwork and communication are built into every learning experience.
Challenge
Games encourage healthy risk-taking, resilience, and problem-solving.
Reflect
Students celebrate growth, evaluate progress, and set goals.
Connect
Learning extends beyond the classroom and into families, neighborhoods, and community.
Play Today. Lead Tomorrow.
By combining joyful experiences with purposeful instruction, Innova Academy-INA empowers every scholar to become a confident learner, compassionate leader, and lifelong problem solver.
Our Comprehensive Approach
At Innova Academy-INA, we believe every scholar deserves more than academic success—they deserve the opportunity to grow as confident learners, compassionate leaders, and engaged members of their community. Our comprehensive approach combines innovative instruction, social-emotional development, and meaningful partnerships to create an environment where every student can thrive.
Game-Based Learning
We use the power of play to transform education into an interactive experience. Through games, hands-on challenges, collaborative projects, and creative problem-solving, students develop critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills while building a genuine love for learning.
Social-Emotional Support
Academic achievement begins with emotional well-being. We foster a safe, inclusive environment where students build confidence, strengthen relationships, develop resilience, and learn the social-emotional skills needed to succeed both inside and outside the classroom.
Community & Village Model
Student success is a shared responsibility. We partner with families, mentors, educators, businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations to create a strong support network that extends learning beyond the classroom and prepares scholars for lifelong success.
Our Core Values
At Innova Academy-INA, our core values shape every classroom experience, every relationship, and every opportunity for growth. They guide how we learn, lead, and support one another as we build a joyful, inclusive community where every scholar can thrive.
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Integrity
We encourage honesty, accountability, and respect in every interaction. Our scholars learn to make responsible choices, build trust, and demonstrate strong character both inside and outside the classroom.
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Innovation
We inspire curiosity, creativity, and bold thinking through engaging learning experiences. Students are encouraged to solve problems, embrace new ideas, and develop the confidence to think beyond traditional boundaries.
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Inclusion
We celebrate diversity and create a welcoming environment where every scholar feels valued, respected, and supported. Together, we build a community where every voice is heard and every individual has the opportunity to thrive.
Why the Elephant?
The elephant represents wisdom, strength, loyalty, and community. Just like a herd works together to support one another, our school community grows stronger when everyone contributes and belongs.
Community Partnerships
Innova Academy-INA is proud to partner with organizations that share our commitment to empowering students and strengthening our community.
Grade Levels Served
We are launching with a founding cohort of sixth-grade scholars and expanding one grade level each year.
Meet Our Founder
Anteria Gross
Anteria Gross is a passionate educator, community advocate, and visionary leader dedicated to transforming the middle school experience for students and families.
Recognizing the unique challenges students face during this pivotal stage of development, she founded Innova Academy-INA to create a joyful, inclusive, and empowering learning environment where every child can thrive.
Through innovation, community partnership, and a deep belief in the power of play, Anteria is leading the effort to redefine what middle school can be.
We'd Love to Hear From You
Whether you're a parent, future scholar, community partner, volunteer, or supporter, we're here to answer your questions.
