mission, vision, & values

our mission:

We believe the world can be a better place and that we are the ones who can make it happen.

our vision:

Our vision for students begins with unlocking their potential which means our innovation certificate students start practicing self direction, learning from failures, and taking action from the very beginning.  Our programs partner students with the outside world so they learn the skills needed to adapt to life’s big changes. 

Two young women smiling in front of hand painted mural at Design Tech public charter high school

as innovators, we believe…

  • high school student practices typography layout with letters on board

    empathy leads to effective solutions

    Given problems involve people, innovative students must first understand and empathize with the end user to find effective solutions.

    Empathy is being able to understand someone else’s feelings and perspectives.  

  • koi fish representing student growth potential

    students grow when challenged

    We use the analogy of a Koi fish whose growth rate is influenced by the size of its pond (and many other factors!). Students are more likely to reach their full potential when they seek challenges. Innovation Certificate programs asks students to strive to find solutions in a way that is not always asked of them in other educational settings.

    Our students grow to meet these expectations, and - like Koi - they begin to swim in a bigger pond and consider many new factors in building usable solutions.

  • young adult holds compass

    all innovation requires self-direction.

    Innovation Certificate teachers work with students to develop this mindset, help them manage their projects, and connect with industry partners.

  • teenager jumping in air

    students have superpowers

    All students have the ability to make a unique contribution to make the world a better place, and it’s our job as adults to help them apply themselves, and build their confidence and insights.