IVA’s curriculum is rigorous. The culture of thinking, combined with the language of intellectual virtues, encourages our students to define themselves by their ability to grow and learn. Our students will know themselves as learners. IVA's promoting students transition to the larger learning environment of high school with a metacognitive awareness of their learning strengths and areas of growth. Our goal is for students to view themselves as consistently growing in character. That growth mindset will encourage students to be more comfortable with transitions.

Anecdotally, our alumni tell us that they can be initially bewildered by the large campus size of some high schools and that they feel equipped to be present in their education in ways that are distinct from their non-IVA peers. Alumni and their high school teachers report that IVA students ask more questions, are not afraid to admit what they do not know, desire the cognitive input of their peers, are comfortable talking with their teachers, and are prepared for the academic challenge of high school. Most IVA students select more rigorous academic programs after middle school and can feel less challenged without them.