Principal’s Message

Happy Friday IA Families,

As we continue to foster a learning environment that emphasizes both academic excellence and the well-being of our students, I wanted to take a moment to discuss a few important topics that are integral to our shared mission.

I’d first like to discuss an upcoming lesson our students will take on Digital Citizenship—a crucial aspect of our students’ development in today’s connected world. At Innovation Academy, our students are at the forefront of technology, often possessing advanced skills that set them apart. However, with great power comes great responsibility (Sorry). It’s not uncommon for students in a STEM-focused environment to find that their technological abilities outpace their maturity. This can lead to challenges if these skills are not guided by ethical principles and a clear understanding of the potential consequences.

I urge you to have a candid conversation with your students about the responsible use of technology. This includes the risks associated with using VPNs to bypass network restrictions, making unauthorized modifications to school computers, and installing unapproved applications. While these actions may seem harmless or even clever, they can lead to serious consequences, both academically and legally. By discussing these topics openly, we can help our students understand that their actions in the digital world carry weight, and that it’s important to use their skills in a way that aligns with the IA Way. For a more detailed overview of digital citizenship, you can review this document: Digital Citizenship Overview.

Secondly, as we near the first grading period, we recognize that the early weeks of the semester can be both exciting and challenging as students adjust to the rigor of their courses. With that in mind, I encourage you to check in with your student about their grades. It’s common to see some fluctuation at the start of the school year, especially with few grades in the gradebook. A lower-than-expected grade should be viewed as an opportunity to support your student rather than a cause for concern. Engage with them in understanding the challenges they may be facing, and explore ways to provide encouragement and assistance. Please make sure you reach out to their teachers if they are struggling and have your student take advantage of the tutoring opportunities we have for them. I also encourage you to check in with your student and their teachers if you send them in to get help. Often, our students are too proud or too nervous to share they are struggling with their teachers, so they do not attend tutoring you are sending them to. They aren’t intending to lie; they are scared.

Finally, I’d like to emphasize the importance of mental health. We ask a lot of our students here at IA, and while the level of rigor prepares them well for the future, it can also be stressful. Please keep an eye on how your student is managing their workload and overall stress levels. If you notice signs of elevated stress, don’t hesitate to reach out to our counselors. They are here to help, and early intervention can make a significant difference.

Thank you for your continued partnership as we work together to support the academic and emotional well-being of our students.

Warm regards,

Scott Kent
Principal, Innovation Academy