Vela Grant Recipients!

Ironwood Academy is honored and grateful to have been awarded a $10,000 grant from VELA, an organization dedicated to expanding access to innovative, community-driven education models across the country.

VELA exists to support families and educators who are reimagining what learning can look like—outside of one-size-fits-all systems. Through grants, fellowships, and a national network of education entrepreneurs, VELA invests in programs that are learner-centered, values-driven, and rooted in local communities. Their work empowers microschools, learning hubs, co-ops, and hybrid models that prioritize flexibility, creativity, and real-world learning.

This grant is a meaningful affirmation of Ironwood Academy’s mission and vision. It allows us to strengthen our programs today while building toward long-term sustainability—ensuring that we are always thinking ahead for the families we serve.

How We Are Implementing the Grant

VELA grant funding is being thoughtfully invested in classroom equipment, shared resources, and core program infrastructure that support both current students and future growth.

One of the most exciting areas of investment has been our new Culinary Program. Through grant funding, we have been able to purchase essential culinary equipment. This program teaches practical, lifelong skills—such as food preparation, safety, organization, and teamwork—that students can use at home and carry into the workforce. Culinary education fosters independence, responsibility, and confidence, and we are thrilled to offer it as part of our growing program offerings.

Grant funding has also played a key role in helping us launch our newest addition—the Ironwood Hybrid Program. This program provides students with a strong core learning experience, blending structured academic instruction with the flexibility families value. By investing in curriculum resources, classroom materials, and foundational program needs, we are able to offer a high-quality hybrid option that supports academic growth while remaining adaptable and sustainable.

In addition, funds have been used to expand and strengthen our Lending Library—a shared collection of resources available to our families. The lending library includes classic literature, early readers, full curriculum sets, science kits, and more. By investing in shared resources, we reduce barriers for families and support diverse learning styles.

Investing in Sustainability and the Future

At Ironwood Academy, stewardship matters. We are intentional about using funding in ways that create lasting value—not just for one semester, but for years to come. This grant helps ensure that our programs are well-equipped, adaptable, and sustainable as our community continues to grow.

We are deeply thankful to VELA for believing in our work and for championing educational models that empower families and communities. Their support allows us to continue building a learning environment where students gain meaningful skills, discover their interests, and develop a genuine love of learning.

We look forward to all that lies ahead—and to stewarding this investment with purpose, gratitude, and vision.