Curious what IVA High is really like? Our small, tuition-free charter high school is all about helping you shape a high school experience that fits you. Here are 10 reasons we’ve been awarded Long Beach’s favorite high school year after year:  

1. Smaller, Safer Learning in Long Beach

IVA High is intentionally small. Our size provides a safe setting that fosters strong relationships, 1:1 support and personalized learning, ensuring no one slips through the cracks. 

2. AXS to College & Career Pathways that Help You Explore Your Interests

Unlike other pathway programs that want you to have your future figured out by 9th grade, IVA High’s AXS to College & Career Pathways programs encourage you to explore your interests and options. Whether you have your sights set on College and choose our College Pathway, are excited about building career skills through our CTE Pathway, or you want the freedom to mix and match your own journey through our Individualized Pathway, you have the flexibility to discover what truly sparks your curiosity. Best of all, every pathway includes opportunities for dual enrollment and paid internships, so you graduate with real college credits, hands-on experience, and the confidence to succeed wherever life takes you next.

3. Tuition-Free & Fully Accredited High School

We are a 100% tuition-free public charter high school serving the students of the greater Long Beach area with innovative academics taught by a highly qualified team of teachers and educators. Our accreditation with WASC affirms our longstanding commitment to excellence and high standards from and for all. 

4. Critical & Creative Thinking Skills that AI Can’t Replicate

Our emphasis on the intellectual virtues isn’t an add-on–it is the curriculum, thoughtfully woven into every subject to support habits of character alongside critical and creative thinking skills. By tackling big, essential questions we ask students to dig deep, build on their knowledge, humbly open their minds and have the courage to respectfully share their thinking. 

5. Vibrant Community Where You Can Belong

The inclusive and welcoming community at IVA High, built on trusted relationships among peers and staff, is our greatest asset. We lift up the voice of every student within our school, where everyone is invited to express themselves and grow in their own identity. As courageous contributors, our students feel heard, appreciated and valued.

6. Dual Enrollment for All

In partnership with Long Beach City College, IVA High students are invited to earn college credits and begin preparing for a career, all tuition-free. Every year, we offer 12 transferable units taught by a college professor on our campus. Additionally, we encourage students to participate in our Individual Dual Enrollment program where they can choose their own courses. Enrolling at IVA High = college and career ready. 

7. Diverse Learning Community

We welcome and celebrate each unique individual who walks through the doors of IVA High. We foster a learning community that is inclusive of everyone: we do not discriminate based on race, color, ancestry, national/ethnic origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, religion, gender identity, mental health, physical and/or learning differences, socioeconomic status, or other characteristics that construct our unique human identities. All learners, regardless if they have a 504 or IEP, are welcome and encouraged to attend IVA High. 

8. Foundational Life Skills

Our unique Advisory class, guided by a trusted staff member, provides a foundation for developing character and mindset that lasts a lifetime. We also have a low counselor-to-student ratio, providing our students greater access to support for academics and social-emotional needs than a larger high school. 

9. Clubs & Sports for Everyone

Our rotating selection of clubs, including favorites like Skate Club, Journalism, Gender Sexuality Alliance and Black Student Union, are student and faculty-led. Our popular Debate club has swept competitions. Have a club you want to start? Let’s make it happen. We also offer athletics like cross country, basketball, volleyball and futsal, as well as PE credit for teams outside of school. 

10. Joy in Learning 

We infuse joy into everything we do, whether it’s an Open Mic Night at a local cafe or a mid-day Queen karaoke session, we value fun and authentic connection at our small school. From Spanish Club fiestas, to basketball tournaments, movie nights, and field trips to explore our city, at our small school, you are not just classmates, you are friends.

Enrollment is open year round for IVA High. Whether you are interested in joining us mid-year, or starting your high school journey with us in the 2026-27 school year, we invite you to learn more about our school and visit our enrollment page. 

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 real-world projects transforms learning into action. Students come for college prep, STEAM and our exploratory AXS to College & Career Pathways; 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   IVA High – 10 Years of Curious Minds, Empowered Community – Join Us!