Following!

I know this thread hasn't been active for a while, but I am considering Ideaventions Academy for my 2e daughter and would really like to hear from current parents. TIA

I don't know what to say about that comment, except that in my experience, the co-founder mentioned is not uptight or shaming. Maybe it was just a difficult day or hour, we all have them; sounds out of character to me.

One reason we came to the school and have stayed is because of the genuine and generous co-founders, and their deep love of children, positive energy, and the well thought out vision for their students and the school as a community. The kids are so happy, engaged, and incredibly educated through deep active learning. I know a 7th grader who scored 1200 on the SAT (took for a scholarship application) - no prep at all, who has been there since 4th grade. I would suspect that is what most kids there would score at that grade level- or higher. They teachers they have recruited are exceptional in education, experience, and style. They clearly love what they are doing, and that translates into a joy of learning within the students.

Beyond the academics. there is a natural weaving-in of emotional guidance, encouraging caring and responsibility in the students. The kids really value each other, their education and their teachers/faculty. No bullying, no snide behavior, very minimal teen drama. The parent community is wonderful, open and welcoming.

The acceptance rate is about 50% as I understand it, and I think that a child's character is a big part of admitting the right students, as is engagement in hands on learning during the child's scheduled visit day, and more of course.

I'd advise seeing it yourself, and meeting with a couple of parents for a coffee and a chat. You'll know if it feels right for your child / your family, and then can move forward with the application process if it seems like a possible fit. If deemed a viable candidate, your child will be invited to spend a full day, and will be paired with a 'buddy' to help them ease in to the community.

I hope this is helpful. Call anytime, and if you do visit for a tour, I know any of the other parents would be happy to speak to you if you'd like and if they are available.

Kind regards,
Evelyn

Anonymous wrote:Looked at Ideaventions for my DD (6th grade to enter 7th). The Head of School was a bit uptight (woman) - ok more than a bit uptight. Maybe some social challenges? On our visit, her interactions with a couple of the students can only be described as abrupt and dated (shamed them). We were embarrassed for the kids. Made me uncomfortable. Her husband, who runs the school with her, seemed really nice and engaging. He teaches, she does not. I don't know. You know when you see someone be rude to a waiter, but nice to you? I got that feel from her. Weird observation, but there you have it.

PP what about this comment?

Fabulous! Looking forward to meeting you and your son! Evelyn

Yes!!! This is the only private school that we are considering. Our son has been going to ideaventions camps for years and we have been thoroughly impressed. Before you drink the Kool-Aid, send your child to a camp to see if he/she would enjoy the experience.

I have a 7th and 9th grade daughters at Ideaventions Academy. This is their 4th year, and we are thrilled and plan to continue through high school there!

I would be happy to have a conversation / answer questions anytime. 202-236-1422. Please call, no texts. Thanks, Evelyn

Any folks considering for middle?

No it's a private school in Herndon/Reston. Gets mixed reviews.

Anonymous wrote:My kids are young but we are looking to move in the near future. Just wondering what others thought of the idea of a small middle school for gifted middle school students.

http://www.ideaventionsacademy.org/

Is this public?

Looked at Ideaventions for my DD (6th grade to enter 7th). The Head of School was a bit uptight (woman) - ok more than a bit uptight. Maybe some social challenges? On our visit, her interactions with a couple of the students can only be described as abrupt and dated (shamed them). We were embarrassed for the kids. Made me uncomfortable. Her husband, who runs the school with her, seemed really nice and engaging. He teaches, she does not. I don't know. You know when you see someone be rude to a waiter, but nice to you? I got that feel from her. Weird observation, but there you have it.

They are accredited by AdvancEd/SACS. https://www.ideaventionsacademy.org/at-a-glance.html

IDV parent responding.

The homework varies with the courseload. Elementary students have *no* homework besides half-an-hour of free reading. Junior high students have *some* homework, maybe about an hour per day. And high school students have homework commensurate to the courses they are taking, usually 2-3 hours per day, but they also have study hall periods built into the schedule. During study hall periods, the students can schedule appointments with teachers, or work collaboratively or individually.

I would say the elementary and junior high school courses are more focused on exploration and creativity, while the high school classes are more focused on content mastery, depth, and analysis.

The small school size means that organized sports are done independently. Though high schoolers do get P.E. credit for any hours spent, I wouldn't advise a student with a 10+ hour sports commitment to take on the academics at IDV -- unless that student is exceptionally disciplined and well-organized.

For extra-curriculars, the students work on projects that interest them, mostly during club time (4-5:15pm daily). For my children, those projects currently include building a bionic exoskeleton, programming a robotic arm, flying a drone cooperatively built and programmed, learning classical languages, performing in a musical, writing a play, setting up a computerized checkout system for the library, leading a student literature circle, and performing with an outside music group.

There is a science olympiad group, a robotics team, and other organized opportunities. What are you looking for? One of the phenomenal things about being so small is that the school is so flexible. If you bring a passion to the school, there will be a place for it.

Wow, that is small.

Are they accredited?