My name is Julen Blas Navarrete, a senior at the Advanced Learning Academy. Also known as ALA. I first heard about the Advanced Learning Academy in the fall of 2015. I previously attended Austin academy which is now the pre-k through 3rd grade Euclid campus. I was intrigued by the prospect of attending ALA because it was advertised as a center of innovation.

I was excited to experience their innovative structure and to benefit from their new ways of teaching. The transition was easy as many students from my previous school we going to go there. Some of these new ways of learning include taking high school classes in the 8th grade. The multidisciplinary approach to learning was evident within my freshman and sophomore years, through projects such as the “Cancer Research Project,” the “Bread Baking Unit,” and the “Bizarre Bazaar.” Through ALA’s interdisciplinary approach, my classmates and I were able to gain a deeper understanding of the concepts being taught.

I have chosen to remain at ALA because of its communal environment and the relationships I have made with my classmates and teachers. It is because of the support from the relationships I have built at ALA that I was able to pursue opportunities that I do not think that I would’ve received elsewhere. These opportunities included an internship with an architecture firm and the City of San Antonio Global Engagement office. Since the school is new, it’s still evolving and finding its identity. When you join our small school, know that your voice will be heard.

The Advanced Learning Academy is now accepting applications for the 2021-2022 school year. Click here to learn more.