Innova Academy

Ignite Your Child's Creative Genius

At Innova Academy, we believe in nurturing young minds and hearts for self-expression, innovation, and leadership, unlocking the unique gifts they're meant to give the world.

Who & How

We are passionate artists and educators offering creativity classes for kids grades K-6 in Bentonville schools.

We come to your child’s after-school care program weekly to share our holistic curriculum centered around mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and unrestrained creative expression!

Reach out to try a class for FREE.

esme@innovanwa.com

Unlike Any Other Art Lessons

We throw out the manual so kids can engage with the organic creative process

Dance

Students learn to choreograph their own individual and group dances instead of learning one-size-fits all routines.

Music

Students learn to compose their own music and lyrics instead of only playing other people's songs.

Students are given abundant materials and inspirational prompts to create original masterpieces instead of duplicating art.

Visual Arts

Frequently asked questions

What does this curriculum actually look like?

Every lesson centers around an aspect of emotional intelligence like self-compassion, healthy boundaries, active listening, and emotional regulation. Through mindful practices of self-reflection, discussion, and collaborative exercises, students develop self-awareness and maturity. They then express their ideas and feelings through self-directed art, music, and dance projects.

My kids have already taken art, music, and dance classes. How is this any different from that or what they get in school?

In other settings, lessons tend to be prescribed, directive, and one-size-fits-all; what children learn and create is predetermined by instructors and curriculum. With Innova, what your kids create is completely determined by their own curiosity and brilliant ideas. Their creations will look different than every other student's! Our holistic approach to creativity (honoring and integrating mind, body, heart & soul) is also distinct.

NOTE: Due to classroom and size restrictions, the curriculum is currently based on visual arts. In the future, we plan to incorporate music and dance activities, as well.

How much does it cost?

Lessons are 2.5 hours once a week for $85/month with a semester supply fee of $50. You're welcome to try a class for free! You can enroll at any time as long as there are available spots, and can cancel membership at the end of a semester.

Does my child need to be enrolled in after-school care to take Innova classes?

Currently yes, the classes are offered during after-school care at the following schools: Vaughn, Centerton Gamble, Evening Star, Willowbrook & Brightfield. We plan to expand our program locations in the future, so if you'd like this program at your child's elementary school, let us know!

How can I contact you?

You can reach us by email at esme@innovanwa.com. We are always happy to answer your questions.

How will I know what my child is learning?

As far as mindfulness and emotional maturity, you'll get to experience the benefits of their growth at home and in every other setting. You'll get to witness their creative growth through photos sent at the end of the semester, as well as the projects they bring home every week.

Esme's story

Innova Academy was born of the unmet needs of my own five neurodivergent children. I lamented the limited approach of their music, dance, and art training. They were taught to duplicate the creations of their teachers and legendary masters, which does have value, but I wanted them to also trust their instincts to craft artistic masterpieces originating from their own quirky, brilliant brains.

I also considered what skills my kids would need to be successful, contributing members of society, as well as what type of leadership is needed to solve this world's increasingly complex problems. I noticed they need more opportunities to develop and practice curiosity, creativity, and compassion, among other right-brained qualities.

I started Innova to provide the rich, nourishing emotional and creative environment I believe all children need to thrive. My years as a holistic mental health practitioner have taught me that successful pursuits integrate mind, body, heart, and soul, so the curriculum I’ve developed does just that.

I have a deep passion and gift for seeing the highest potential in every child and holding that vision while they build the confidence to express it! With the proper support and training, our children will grow up to create innovative, compassionate solutions our world desperately needs! I’m honored to be part of their inspiring educational journeys.