A joyful, hands-on learning experience where young minds explore, create, and discover; building a foundation that lasts a lifetime.
At Innovations Academy, elementary school is where curiosity comes alive. From the moment a kindergartner steps through our doors, they’re welcomed into a close-knit, nurturing community where learning is an adventure, not a checklist. Small class sizes mean every child is known by name and supported as an individual. Our play-based, inquiry-driven approach meets California Learning Standards while honoring the natural way children grow and learn.
No meaningless homework. Lots of joy. Very high standards.
How We Teach
Our K–5 program combines inquiry, creativity, play, strong academics, and social-emotional growth to create meaningful learning experiences for every child.
Learning That Makes Sense
Our K–5 program is built around inquiry-based project learning: students ask questions, investigate, build, and discover. Teachers act as guides, following each child’s curiosity while weaving in rigorous academics.
Inquiry-Based Projects
Students explore essential questions through hands-on projects that integrate math, language arts, science, and social studies into meaningful, memorable learning.
Arts-Integrated Learning
The arts aren’t extra, they’re essential. Creative expression is woven throughout the day, helping students communicate ideas in powerful, personal ways.
Independence with Support
Students practice real autonomy including access to our campus café for independent study, while trusted adults remain close, guiding and cheering them on.
Play-Based Exploration
Morning snack breaks, outdoor nature learning in our tree-filled backyard, and structured play are all part of how young learners develop focus, resilience, and joy.
Social Emotional Learning
Morning meetings, class councils, and positive discipline teach students how to communicate, resolve conflict, and build meaningful friendships from day one.
Literacy First
Our dedicated Reading Specialist works with students individually and in small groups, ensuring every child becomes a confident, enthusiastic reader. Our “One School One Genre” literacy campaign includes every student in every grade.
Family Partnership
Parents are welcome on campus anytime. Our no-homework policy means evenings are for family time, reading together, and letting curiosity keep leading the way.
Results by the Numbers
Math That Builds Real Understanding
Elementary math at IA is grounded in making sense, not memorizing steps. Teachers use proven approaches that help students truly understand numbers, operations, and problem solving
Grades K–2
Teachers use elements of CGI (Cognitively Guided Instruction) Math to guide students in inventing their own mathematical strategies. The emphasis is on connecting abstract ideas to number sense and developing flexible thinking.
Grades 3–5
All students engage in a minimum of 75 minutes of math every day. Our primary conceptual and algorithmic math curriculum is Beast Academy — a challenging, creative program that develops conceptual understanding alongside fluency. Real-world applications and project integration reinforce skills in a meaningful context.
Grades K–5
– Beast Academy: Our primary curriculum for grades K–5
– ST Math: Spatial-temporal visual learning software that builds understanding beyond memorization
– 3-Act Math: A delightful set of math puzzles in 3 acts inviting students to critically think in their problem solving.
– Thinking Blocks: Interactive tool that helps students model math word problems
Explorations Program
Beyond the Classroom
Every student in K–5 participates in our Explorations program — a rich set of enrichment classes taught by dedicated specialists. These classes develop creativity, curiosity, and whole-child growth.
- Performing Arts
- Fine Art (2D & 3D)
- Nature Studies & Gardening
- Engineering & Robotics
- Physical Education — soccer, baseball, net sports, football, and track & field
Students also take regular field trips throughout San Diego, extending learning out into the community.
“Teachers are guides, not guards. Learning is a journey, not a destination. Discovery is questioning the answers, not answering the questions.”
— Innovations Academy Mission and Values
How We Assess Progress
Celebrating Growth Through Reflection and Presentation
Our assessment approach uses reflection, portfolios, conferences, and presentations to help students understand, communicate, and take ownership of their growth.
Seeing the Whole Child
At IA, assessment means celebrating growth and building self-awareness — not just a test score. Our approach puts the student at the center of understanding their own learning.
Student Led Conferences
Once a year, students lead their own conference with teachers and parents — sharing goals, portfolio work, and areas of strength and growth. This builds real ownership over learning.
Portfolio Review
Families explore their child’s portfolio work together, reflecting on both academic and social emotional progress so far in the school year.
Exhibition Nights
Twice a year, students formally present their project work to the community. We consider this more meaningful than any report card — students explain their thinking, not just their results.
Presentations of Learning (POL)
At the end of our school year, students present personal and academic growth highlights to peers, adults, and family members — practicing reflection and public speaking simultaneously.
Explore Our Programs
Learn more about the programs, philosophy, and opportunities that make Innovations Academy a place where students grow academically, socially, and emotionally.