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OUR STORY

About Innovative Leadership Academy

Our journey began with a bold vision—to transform education for students who have traditionally struggled in conventional school settings. We wanted to create a middle school experience that truly understands and embraces the unique, often awkward developmental stage of 5th through 8th grade.

At Innovative Leadership Academy (ILA), gone are the traditional classrooms with rigid rows of desks. We have reimagined learning through cutting-edge Innovation Labs, where students explore, create, and lead in an environment designed for engagement, inclusivity, and real-world application. Our labs feature:

✅ Futuristic Modular Seating – Adapts to collaborative or independent learning.
✅ Sensory-Friendly Learning Areas – Designed to support focus, comfort, and accessibility.
✅ Technology-Infused Spaces – Hands-on experiences using AR, robotics, and interactive learning tools.

Recognizing that middle school is a critical period—academically, socially, and emotionally—we designed a student-centered program that meets students where they are and empowers them to grow at their own pace. Through:
🎭 Arts & Technology Integration – Blending STEAM, creative expression, and problem-solving.
📚 Competency-Based Learning – Allowing students to master skills at their own pace.
🌍 Leadership Development – Instilling confidence, resilience, and real-world skills.

Our story is one of innovation, inclusion, and transformation. By nurturing creativity, leadership, and individuality, we prepare students not just to overcome challenges but to thrive as confident, innovative leaders—ready to shape the future.

ABOUT US

What Sets Us Apart

WHAT SETS US APART

Arts and Technology Integration

We seamlessly blend creative arts with cutting-edge technology, fostering innovation and digital literacy.

Personalized Learning

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Our individualized pathways ensure each student's unique strengths and interests are nurtured and developed.

Leadership Development

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We empower students with critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills essential for future leaders.

Sensory Friendly Environment

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Our sensory-friendly spaces and adaptive approaches ensure all students, including those with special needs, can thrive.

Student working with teacher on a 1:1 basis

Students working in sensory specific classroom

Meet our Founder-Toni Fisher

OUR FOUNDER

Toni Fisher brings over 20 years of educational leadership and a deep commitment to urban education to Innovative Public Schools. With a Bachelor’s in Psychology, a Master’s in Educational Leadership, and ongoing doctoral studies in Nonprofit Management, Ms. Fisher is highly qualified to lead our school. Certified in Texas as a Special Education teacher, Principal, and Superintendent, she has a proven track record of fostering academic success, enhancing school culture, and implementing inclusive practices. Her initiatives, such as experiential learning programs and mentorship-driven projects, have significantly boosted student achievement and engagement. Additionally, Ms. Fisher’s leadership in designing arts education and supporting new teachers demonstrates her visionary approach and dedication to excellence. Her deep ties to the community and extensive experience in the charter school sector position her to drive Innovative Public Schools toward a future of academic and artistic distinction, ensuring every student can thrive.

Meet our Board

At Innovative Public Schools, our Board of Trustees and leadership team bring a wealth of expertise and dedication to support our mission of fostering student success and community impact. Our team is composed of experienced professionals from diverse fields, each contributing their unique skills to ensure the school’s academic, financial, and operational excellence.

OUR BOARD

Brittanye Morris

Brittany is an expert in legal matters, contributing valuable legal insight to safeguard the school’s operations and ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Teresa O'Donnell

With extensive experience in human resources and fundraising, provides strategic guidance in ensuring the school’s commitment to staff development and resource generation.

Dr. Jacqueline Curtis

Dr. Jacqueline Curtis chairs the Academic Excellence Committee. With 18 years of experience in K-8 education, Dr. Curtis collaborates with the Superintendent to set measurable goals and ensure exceptional student outcomes through data-driven strategies.

John L. Merriwether

John L. Merriwether, Director of Finance at the Boys and Girls Club of Houston, leads the Finance Committee. His expertise in managing multi-million dollar budgets and implementing financial controls ensures fiscal responsibility, transparency, and long-term planning for the school.

Mike Falick

Our Board Chair, leads the Governance Committee. With over 10 years of experience as a School Board Trustee for the Spring Branch Independent School District (SBISD), Mike’s governance expertise enhances the board’s commitment to best practices, continuous development, and strategic oversight.

Oliver Stevenson

with over 20 years of fundraising experience, chairs the Development Committee. His leadership drives the school’s advancement efforts by cultivating strong partnerships and securing diverse funding sources to support the school’s mission and sustainability.

Reda Hicks

Read is an expert in legal matters and contributes valuable legal insight to safeguard the school’s operations and ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Advisory Board Members:

JaShika Bivens brings over 20 years of experience in education leadership and professional development, specializing in building educator capacity to enhance student success. As the Director of Teacher Professional Development for Houston ISD, she supports over 11,000 teachers in implementing data-driven instructional strategies. At Innovative Leadership Academy (ILA), JaShika is committed to ensuring educators have the tools and training needed to deliver an innovative, high-quality education that prepares students for the future.