Admissions
High School Transitions Event
At Highline, we're dedicated to making every student future-ready. High school is a time where dreams take flight, and futures are forged. We offer a variety of secondary pathways, from maritime studies and aerospace exploration to virtual learning and neighborhood schools. We’re here to help you explore your options so that you’re prepared for the challenges and possibilities of tomorrow.
Join Us at our High School Transitions Event
- When: December 18, 2025
- Location: Puget Sound Skills Center
Representatives from your neighborhood high school and Schools and Programs of Choice will share about their schools, programs and admission process. Get a clear overview of all your high school options. If something sparks your interest, you can learn more by attending a school-specific information session.
Application support will be available for students and families via breakout rooms—staff will be available to answer questions and guide you through the process step-by-step.
Innovation Heights Academy Information Night
Join us at our Information Night!
Family Info Sessions are at 8:30 a.m. on the following days:
- December 2, 2025
- January 27, 2026
- March 10, 2026
- April 28, 2026
Application Information
Innovation Heights Academy has six sessions a year with varying application dates. Please see our application dates here:
How to Apply
IHA is currently not accepting 9th graders.
innovation heights academy Application (in English and Español)
*Make sure all pages are completed and signed.
After Submitting an Application
Once we receive your application we will:
- Review your application.
- If your application is accepted, we will contact you.
Please be advised, submitting an application to Innovation Heights Academy is not a guarantee of your acceptance. Acceptance of your application to Innovation Heights Academy is determined by our review board. If your application qualifies, an invitation to enroll will be determined after your successful completion in new student orientation.
If your application does not qualify, or new student orientation is not successfully completed, your application will be referred back to your home school, or to the Highline School District Connection Center to learn more about the many pathways to graduation Highline Public Schools offers.
Program Model
Innovation Heights Academy strives to be a flexible learning option for students. We are a half day program, where students can engage in experiential learning, practice habits of life balance, and accelerate their progress toward graduation.
Schedule: To provide flexibility for our students, Innovation Heights Academy operates on a half day model. Students come to school Monday through Thursday for either the morning (8:30-11:30am) or afternoon session (12:00-3:00pm).
Accelerated Credit Earning: Students have the opportunity to progress toward graduation faster. Students can earn up to 9 credits in a year, as compared to 6 credits in a year in a traditional model.
Classes: Instruction at Innovation Heights Academy will be two hours each day. Students will engage in project-based learning through cross-curricular learning blocks. Learning will focus on developing real-world skills which will be related to students’ individual goals.
Wellness Block: In order to ensure that we are preparing students to be successful in life beyond high school, we want to allow space for students to learn about life balance and wellness. Students will spend one hour a day focusing on physical, mental, and social wellness.
Re-engagement Fridays: Fridays are required for students who are struggling with attendance, behavior, or grades each week. Weekly, students will meet with their advisor to discuss their progress toward their goals and determine if they need assistance re-engaging in their work. If students are making adequate progress on their goals, students can still come on Friday for access to clubs, community partners, and other connections.
Program Description
MisSion
Innovation Heights Academy will ensure that students engage in self-discovery, practice the habits of life balance, and accelerate progress towards their individual goals. Students will leave Innovation Heights as strong communicators, continually curious, and contributing community members prepared to engage in their next academic program.
Vision
Innovation Heights will engage students in meaningful and innovative learning experiences to build real-world skills to meet their individual goals. Coursework will be standards-based and students will earn accelerated credit towards high school graduation.
Innovation Heights will prioritize habits of life balance throughout the school day so students can cultivate their social, physical, and mental wellness.
Students will collaborate with families, mentors, and community partners to guide them in their future goals and transition to their next educational program
Thank you for your interest in attending Innovation Heights Academy. The application process is now online! Enrollment is now open.
Schools of Choice Application Timeline for 2026-27
The application window for the 2026-27 school year opens December 8, 2025- January 31, 2026.
Timeline
- Application Opens: December 8, 2025
- Application Closes: January 31, 2026
- Lottery and Notification: March 4, 2026
- Applications reopen for schools and programs not at capacity: April 13, 2026
Some schools and programs of Choice timelines vary. Please check your school's website for more information.
Contact
Innovation Heights Academy
11249 14th Avenue S.
Burien, WA 98168
Phone
206-631-7750
Principal
Kevin Takisaki
Registrar
Sharon Cawsey
Counselor
Shauna Pierson
School Hours
8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Early Release Days
8:00 a.m - 12:45 p.m.
Office Hours
8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Fax
206-631-7780
