Some students walk onto our campus as nervous freshmen and walk off four years later with a diploma and friends they met on day one. Others arrive in the middle of the story, after a move or a hard year somewhere else. For families getting ready to start high school in Long Beach, that first choice can feel like a big one. At IVA High, we welcome students at every point in their journey, and we love watching the ones who start with us grow over four full years. We’d like to introduce you to Madi, to show you just how impactful starting out at IVA High as a freshman can be.

Starting Freshman Year Alongside Her Brother

Madi joined IVA High as a 9th grader when her brother transferred to our school. For many families, keeping siblings at the same school makes life simpler. For Madi, it was the beginning of a place she’d help shape.

Now in 11th grade, Madi has spent nearly three years at IVA. She knows the hallways, the teachers, and what it feels like to be new here. That last part matters, because welcoming new students has become one of her biggest roles.

Madi at a Glance

• Grade: 11th
• Joined IVA: 9th grade
• Founded: IVA High Cheer Team club, sophomore year
• Current roles: Cheer Team club leader and Student Ambassador

Building the IVA High Cheer Team

Last year, Madi saw something missing and decided to create it. She started the IVA High Cheer Team club, recruited teammates, and led the group through its first year.

By spring, the team was performing at our Exhibition of Learning in front of students, families, and staff. For a brand new club, that’s a big moment, and it happened because a sophomore decided to lead.

Welcoming the Next Class as a Student Ambassador

This year, Madi added a new role. She’s one of IVA’s Student Ambassadors, the students who help families get to know our school. Ambassadors lead campus tours and visit middle schools for info sessions, giving families an honest look at student life from someone who lives it.

In August, Madi helped welcome new students at New Student Orientation. Three years ago, she was the one arriving. Now she’s the one saying hello.

Growing Over Four Years

Madi’s story shows what can happen when a student has time to put down roots. She started as a freshman, found her voice, built a team, and now helps other students find their place at IVA. She still has her senior year ahead of her, and we can’t wait to see what she does with it.

If your student is getting ready for high school, we’d love to meet you. Schedule a campus visit, and you might even get a tour from Madi.

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!