About WVIC
Creating Innovators
At the West Valley Innovation Center, we redefine the traditional classroom by treating our students as Innovators anour students "learn by doing”. Our curriculum is built on career-connected programming for Grades 7-12, where academic standards in English, Math, Science, and Social Studies are woven directly into Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways. Whether a student is interested in Computer Science, Health Science, STEM Aerospace, or STEM Robotics, they spend their day building "well-rounded citizen skills” – a blend of rigorous academics, technical mastery, and professional habits. To ensure transparency, we utilize Otus, a standards-based learning platform that allows innovators, parents, and staff to track individual student proficiency and growth in real-time.
Innovative Learning
- Real-World Application: Lessons bridge the gap between classroom standards and future careers, ensuring every student understands the "why" behind their learning.
- Standards-Based: Learning is focused on proficiency and mastery. Once a student has mastered learning standards, they receive a grade in Skyward and can immediately move to the next level.
- Flexible Pacing: The model allows students to advance as they are able, or, take additional time when needed to master difficult concepts.
- Real-Time Progress Monitoring: Using the Otus platform, students, parents, and staff monitor growth and learning progress in real time.
- Professional Industry Tools: Students train on professional-grade equipment, such as medical simulation labs, flight simulators, industrial robots, and fabrication machinery.
- Integrated Supports: Core-subject and special education teachers work directly with students in career pathway classrooms to provide personalized, inclusive support.
Grades 7-9: Building a Foundation
The journey begins with an immersive morning block. For the first 2.5 hours of every day, Innovators in Grades 7-9 work within a specific Career Pathway program with a cohort of students led by an industry-expert "Designer" (teacher). This model allows students to go deep into project-based learning related to their chosen interests, fostering a strong sense of belonging and mentorship. Throughout the rest of the day, students transition into grade-level cohorts to explore other program areas and core content. To ensure academic success, specialized teachers for English Language Arts, Math, and Special Education assist students within the classrooms, reinforcing the vital connections between core subjects and their real-world applications.
Grades 10-12: Specialization and Career Launch
For Grades 10-12, the schedule shifts to offer maximum flexibility and professional depth. Innovators start their day with personalized options, including online classes through the West Valley Virtual Academy, online classes through Running Start, or in-person classes at West Valley High School for electives like band, choir, or College-in-the-High-School courses. The rest of their day is dedicated to their chosen Career Pathway program at the Innovation Center, where students utilize professional-grade equipment—such as medical simulation labs, flight simulators, and industrial robots—to earn industry certifications and high school credits.
As students gain proficiency, they have the unique opportunity to bridge the gap between school and the workforce. Through our partnerships with local employers, students can participate in job shadows, internships, and even AJAC Registered Apprenticeships – where students can earn an hourly wage for on-the-job training while earning high school and college credits. Every graduate from the West Valley Innovation Center earns a high school diploma and departs fully prepared for their next step, whether that is immediate employment, military service, or enrollment in a post-secondary institution.
IC Pathways: Student Testimonials
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- Hands-on, project-based learning
- Career and college-aligned skills
- Supportive environment for student growth and development
- Personalized learning
- Integration and application of standards
- Small school feel and culture
- Opportunities for certifications, dual credit, and work-based learning
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- Integrated development of academic skills, technical skills, and professional skills
- How to safely use industry equipment, technology, and software
- Core standards ELA, math, science, and social studies are connected to real-world applications.
- Job-ready and life skills
- Problem-solving skills and application of knowledge
- Collaboration and teamwork
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- Every student can succeed with the right support and opportunities.
- Working together, exploring new ideas, and making choices in our learning help us grow.
- We do our best work when we collaborate with teachers and peers on real and meaningful projects.
- Learning is most powerful when we take charge of it and understand why it matters.
- Having choices in our projects makes learning more creative, exciting, and meaningful.
- We learn better when we explore our interests and connect school to real life.
- Teachers working together helps students succeed.
- Staying motivated and taking ownership of our learning leads to success.
- Hands-on projects make learning more engaging and prepare us for the future.
- Combining academic learning with career skills helps us get ready for life after school.
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- Master Your Skills and Standards – Instead of just passing a class, you’ll work toward truly mastering skills that meet state and industry standards. While you have some flexibility in pacing, you’ll also need to stay on track and meet expectations as you progress.
- Take Ownership of Your Learning – You’re in charge of your success! You’ll set goals, stay accountable, and take responsibility for your work—whether it’s an individual project or a team challenge.
- Develop Real-World Problem-Solving Skills – Innovation requires grit and creativity. You’ll tackle real-world problems, think critically, and push through challenges to find solutions.
- Work Together and Lead with Confidence – Collaboration is key! You’ll learn how to work effectively in groups, contribute your ideas, and even take on leadership roles in student-led projects.
- Build the 21st-Century Skills Employers Want – From time management and communication to creativity and responsibility, you’ll develop the skills that will prepare you for success in your education after graduation, your career, and beyond.
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A way of learning where students work on a real-world project for a week, a month, or longer to explore a problem or question, use their knowledge to generate creative solutions, and create a final product or presentation. This method helps students develop skills in problem-solving, teamwork, creativity, and communication while learning deep content.
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A way of learning that focuses on truly understanding the material. Instead of just moving on after completing assignments, you work to master a skill or concept. You’ll be assessed based on how well you meet learning goals and get support tailored to your needs. Your progress is measured in levels from 1 (not yet meeting) to 4 (exceeding the standard). This approach focuses on both knowledge and developing important skills.
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General Information
- Who can attend the WVIC?
Students in grades 7–12 may apply to attend the Innovation Center. - Is WVIC a separate school from the middle school and high school?
Yes, WVIC is a learning program within the district. Students remain part of West Valley Schools and continue to participate in district activities and opportunities.
Activities & Student Life
- Can WVIC students still participate in sports?
Yes. WVIC students can participate in all sports offered at the middle school and high school. - Can WVIC students still join clubs?
Absolutely. Students may join clubs and activities outside the school day at the middle school or high school just like any other student. - Can WVIC students attend dances?
Yes. WVIC students are welcome to attend West Valley dances like Homecoming, Tolo & Prom.
Transportation
- Can students still ride the bus?
Yes. Transportation is provided, and students can ride the bus just like they would if attending the middle school or high school. - Do students follow the same school calendar?
Yes. WVIC follows the West Valley School District calendar.
Academics
- Will WVIC students still earn the same credits needed to graduate?
Yes. Students earn the same credits and meet the same graduation requirements as other West Valley students. - Will WVIC students receive a West Valley diploma?
Yes. Graduates receive a West Valley Innovation Center Diploma similar to any other school’s diploma. - How is learning different at WVIC?
WVIC focuses on project-based learning, collaboration, and real-world problem solving while still meeting state academic standards.
Enrollment
- How do students apply to attend WVIC?
Families can apply through the district website or by contacting the WVIC office for more information. - Can students return to their home school if WVIC isn’t the right fit?
Yes. Students may transition back to their home school if the program is not the right fit.
- Who can attend the WVIC?
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We use a standards-based grading approach to clearly communicate student learning and growth. Our grading system is supported by Otus and Mastery-Based Learning (MBL) practices.
Otus allows families and students to view grades, assignments, and progress in real time. It provides transparency and helps keep everyone informed and engaged.
Mastery-Based Learning (MBL) focuses on what students know and are able to do. Rather than emphasizing points alone, students are assessed on their understanding of key standards and skills. This means:
- Students may have multiple opportunities to demonstrate mastery
- Feedback is ongoing and focused on growth
- Grades reflect proficiency, not just completion
Together, these tools ensure that grading is meaningful, consistent, and centered on student learning.