Innovators (K-4th grade) &
Trailblazers (5th-8th grade
Empowering Students at Every Stage
At Iron Village Preparatory Academy, we understand that each child is on a unique learning journey. Our mixed-grade classrooms allow for a dynamic, supportive and community-driven approach to education. By dividing our students into two groups—Innovators (K-4) and Trailblazers (5-8)—we create a learning environment that balances developmental needs with opportunities for leadership and collaboration.
Innovators (K-4): Building Foundations for Success
Our Innovators group is designed for young learners in Kindergarten through 4th grade. This group focuses on developing essential academic skills, curiosity and emotional intelligence. Students in the Innovators Room are given the tools they need to build a strong foundation in subjects like math, language arts, science and social studies while being encouraged to explore their interests and passions.
Why Mixed-Grade Classrooms Work for Innovators
Research shows that young learners thrive when they have the opportunity to interact with older students. In our mixed-grade Innovators classroom, younger students benefit from the guidance and mentorship of their older peers. This not only reinforces foundational skills but also helps develop essential social-emotional skills.
Trailblazers (5-8): Preparing for Leadership and Global Citizenship
Our Trailblazers group is made up of students in 5th through 8th grade. These students are ready to take on more complex academic challenges while continuing to refine their leadership abilities. The Trailblazers focus on advanced skills in subjects like Spanish and Mandarin, project-based learning and critical thinking.
Strengthening Leadership Skills by Mentoring
One of the most powerful aspects of our mixed-grade classroom model is the opportunity for Trailblazers to mentor the Innovators. Older students take on leadership roles, helping younger students with their work, collaborating on projects and serving as role models. This mentorship fosters a sense of responsibility and strengthens their communication and problem-solving skills. It also boosts the confidence of both the younger and older students, creating a positive feedback loop of learning and growth.
The Best of Both Worlds: Looping and Peer Mentorship
Looping: A Long-Term Learning Relationship
At Iron Village Prep, we embrace the best practice of looping, where students remain with the same group of peers and teachers for multiple years. This model fosters deeper, more meaningful relationships between teachers and students. It also helps create a stable, supportive environment where students are comfortable taking risks, asking questions and developing academically and socially.
For our students, this means that they will stay in the same class with their teacher for multiple years, growing and evolving together. As they transition to the Trailblazers group, they will already be familiar with the supportive community around them, which makes the academic shift smoother and more exciting.
Mentorship Across Ages
In addition to the teacher-student bond, students benefit from informal mentoring across grades. Younger students gain confidence and knowledge by observing and interacting with their older peers, while older students hone leadership skills by guiding their younger classmates. This unique setup empowers students to take ownership of their learning and reinforces the values of cooperation, respect and empathy.
Why This Model Works
By fostering collaboration between age groups, students learn to see themselves not just as individuals but as part of a learning community.
-
They develop early leadership skills as well as a sense of belonging and support.
-
They strengthen their leadership abilities while deepening their understanding by teaching others.
-
This approach ensures your child is receiving a well-rounded education that focuses not only on academics but also on emotional intelligence, social responsibility and leadership development.
Ready to Be a Part of This Vibrant Community?
Our mixed-grade approach and commitment to mentorship make Iron Village Prep a place where every child is empowered to lead, learn and grow. Enrollment is now open for Fall 2025, and we’d love for you to join our community.
Enrollment opens soon!
Sign up for Our Newsletter
Be the first to know about new programs.