Ednovate Recognized as One of the Best Places to Learn
At Ednovate, learning is not limited to the classroom. It is part of how our students, educators, and leaders approach every day—with curiosity, reflection, and a commitment to continued growth.
That culture has earned Ednovate the Best Places to Learn Award, presented at the 2026 Close It Summit. The national award recognizes organizations and educational institutions that create exceptional learning environments where people are empowered to strengthen their skills, advance their careers, and drive innovation.
The recognition celebrates Ednovate’s sustained investment in professional development, mentorship, collaboration, and student-centered learning.
“At Ednovate, learning is not something we ask only of our students; it is a commitment shared by every member of our community,” said Katie Hart, Interim CEO of Ednovate. “Our educators continually strengthen their practice, our leaders learn alongside their teams, and our students are encouraged to explore their identities, develop their strengths, and prepare for lives of purpose and impact. This recognition belongs to the extraordinary students and staff members who make Ednovate a place where everyone is supported and challenged to grow.”
Learning Together
Across Ednovate’s schools, educators have opportunities to collaborate with colleagues, study student progress, explore new instructional approaches, and grow as leaders. Teachers are encouraged to reflect, ask questions, and take thoughtful risks to better serve their students.
“Ednovate has created an environment where teachers are trusted to keep learning and encouraged to take thoughtful risks for their students,” said Rod Lopez, a longtime teacher at USC Hybrid High and recipient of the One Ednovate Award. “I have colleagues and leaders who challenge me, support me, and help me grow. That investment in educators directly shapes what students experience in our classrooms.”
That spirit of learning extends to students, who are encouraged to take ownership of their education and connect what they learn to their goals for college, careers, and life.
Through rigorous academics, personalized support, and college and career preparation, Ednovate students develop not only knowledge and skills, but also confidence, self-awareness, and a sense of purpose.
“My teachers do more than help me understand what I am learning—they help me understand why it matters,” said Jayden Fleming, a student at USC South LA College Prep. “They encourage me to ask questions, learn from mistakes, and believe that I can accomplish goals that once felt out of reach.”
Preparing Students for a Changing World
The Close It Summit brings together leaders from K–12 education, higher education, workforce development, business, government, and technology to strengthen the connections between learning and meaningful employment.
This year’s theme, “Closing the Gaps: Synergizing Connections,” explored how educators, employers and community partners can break down barriers and create more seamless pathways from school to careers.
Those conversations reflect Ednovate’s commitment to preparing students for a rapidly changing world. Students need strong academic foundations, but they also need the ability to collaborate, adapt, solve problems, and continue learning throughout their lives.
The Best Places to Learn Award recognizes the educators, school leaders, staff members, and students who bring that commitment to life across the Ednovate network.
“This award affirms what we see every day: When adults and students learn together, entire communities become stronger,” Hart said. “We are proud of this honor, and we will continue building schools where curiosity is encouraged, growth is celebrated, and every student is prepared to create Positive Multigenerational Change.”
