Starting 9th grade is a big deal. It is a fresh start, a new campus, and a chance to figure out who you are and who you’re becoming. This transition can feel exciting and intimidating all at once. 

IVA High believes high school should be a place where students feel seen, supported, and encouraged to grow, not just academically, but as people who embrace curiosity about the world and themselves. Here are five reasons why IVA High is a strong choice for students entering 9th grade:

Small Classes, Tons of Attention

One of the first things students notice at IVA High is how personal the learning environment feels. Teachers know students by name, understand how they learn, and build relationships that support both academic success and confidence.

Small class sizes also mean students have more chances to take on leadership roles and explore what excites them. Whether it’s joining clubs and sports, contributing ideas during community meetings, or getting involved in campus events, students have room to step forward and be seen.

Being Yourself Is Encouraged 

Students feel like they belong at IVA High, know who they are, express themselves, and find their people grounded in a simple message: come as you are. We’ve built a community where diversity is welcomed and respected, because we know our differences make us stronger thinkers and better collaborators. 

IVA High is a perfect place for students seeking acceptance and belonging, especially those who haven’t felt they fit into a traditional school culture. With inclusive spaces like our GSA and diverse student-led clubs, along with a dedicated counseling team, students feel supported through every step. 

Learner-Centered, Student Voices Are Heard

IVA High lives its learner-centered philosophy with student voice as the central belief. Students are invited into real conversations about the school community, current events, school-wide issues, campus culture, and shared expectations. Our student ambassadors also play an active role in leading tours and helping new students feel welcome. 

Students share about their academic journey through student-led conferences and the Exhibition of Learning (EoL), both of which give space to talk about progress, share processes, express personal perspectives, and enjoy major “a-ha moments”; some of the best parts of ninth grade learning. 

Design Your Own Learning Path

IVA High knows that not every student wants the same high school experience. Instead of offering a one-size-fits-all model, we support students in finding a pathway that fits their goals, interests, and future plans.

Students can explore different directions through IVA High’s three pathways:

• College Pathway including dual enrollment opportunities through Long Beach City College, with the chance to earn college credits.
• Career & Technical Pathway with real-world preparation, internships, and certifications.
• Individualized Pathway blending both options to support students who want flexibility. 

4 Years of Amazing Field Trips

At IVA High, learning doesn’t just stay inside the classroom. Our Field Trips and Activities Program is designed to help students connect academics to the real world while building community along the way.

With at least four field trips each year, our ninth graders can look forward to outings like the Aquarium of the Pacific, Crystal Cove Beach, Physics Day at Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm, college and university tours, museums, and beach clean-ups or other service-based projects. Some years we even head out overnight to Joshua Tree or Big Sur. Trips like these are memory-makers, friendship-builders, and perspective-changers. 

We hope you’ll join us on a trip because you’re joining us at IVA. Reach out to know more about our small high school with big opportunities and visit our website anytime: www.ivahigh.org. 

About IVA High

IVA High is a fully accredited, tuition-free public high school in Long Beach, California with a mission to empower students to think well: creatively, critically, and with a capacity for self-growth. Our learner-centered approach puts students in charge of their education, while dual enrollment and paid internships transform learning into action. Students come for college prep, STEAM and exploratory pathways for their future; they stay for smaller, safer learning in a vibrant, caring community. Get to know us on social media @ivahigh and on the web at www.ivahigh.org 10 Years of Curious Minds, Empowered Community – Join Us!