Club Meeting: Innovation Academy and Rotary: Learning Through Real-World Impact

This week, Medford Rogue Rotary welcomed Cass Thonstad, Principal, and Scott Dreiling, Science Teacher, from Innovation Academy, a project-based high school serving grades 9 through 12. Since opening in fall 2023, the school has grown to approximately 200 students and is quickly becoming a model for hands-on, collaborative learning.

Innovation Academy’s approach centers on dreaming, designing, building, and showcasing. Students work in integrated, co-taught classes where they ideate, prototype, and deliver real-world projects. Their goal is to graduate innovative, collaborative, well-balanced citizens with hopeful futures.

A highlight for our club was the collaboration on Candyland. Students designed and built the Candyland Throne as a class project, applying engineering, creativity, and teamwork to support one of Rotary’s signature community events. This partnership is a strong example of how education and service can intersect in meaningful ways.

Innovation Academy actively invites community involvement through exhibitions, classroom volunteering, and project partnerships. Their next exhibition is April 26 from 5 to 6 pm at 1321 Center Drive.

As a club committed to youth, education, and community impact, Rotary is proud to support and collaborate with programs like Innovation Academy. When students are empowered to create and serve, the entire community benefits.