Teaching at the West Valley Innovation Center (2021-2024)
From 2021 to 2024, I had the honor of teaching at the West Valley Innovation Center in Yakima, Washington. Established in 2021 as part of the West Valley School District, the Innovation Center offers a unique, student-centered approach to learning.
A Personalized Approach to Education
At the Innovation Center, students engage in standards-based learning that prioritizes individual progress and mastery. Progress is tracked using a platform called Empower, which provides students, parents, and staff with real-time updates on learning achievements. Once students meet the required standards for a subject or grade level, their grades are recorded in Skyward, allowing them to move forward at their own pace.
This model ensures students can advance when ready while also giving them extra time to master challenging concepts. The flexibility of this approach caters to diverse learning styles and needs.
Learning Beyond Traditional Methods
The majority of a student’s day is spent in core classes designed to adapt to their personal learning pace and style. Classes often incorporate hands-on learning opportunities, providing alternatives to traditional testing and fostering engagement through practical experiences.
The West Valley Innovation Center exemplifies how innovative education can empower students, equipping them with the skills and confidence to succeed on their terms.
Select from the dropdown menu to check out the various experiences while I was there!