Curriculum

High school is a key opportunity to explore the direction a student will take as they enter adulthood. The Integrated Arts Academy (IAA) was designed on best practices research that suggests that arts education can engage students and move them toward success in school, work, and life. The IAA creates personalized learning opportunities for all students through arts- integrated instruction and community partnerships.

Curriculum in this innovative program enables students to meet the District’s regular graduation requirements through focused content areas: Culinary, Horticultural, and Visual Arts. Each area is supported by community expertise connected to these areas of interest.

Our staff works with students to create customized learning plans which meet the student’s unique graduation requirements. The IAA curriculum uses a standards- based learning approach designed to engage students in the investigation of authentic real-world experiences. Students learn research and critical thinking skills as well as working collaboratively to create projects that reflect their knowledge.

The IAA has unique partnerships with local teaching institutions such as Hennepin Technical College, MacPhail Center for the Arts and the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum.

Areas of Study