Headwaters Blog

Only 2% of U.S. high school students complete an internship. At Cascades Academy, every high school student completes one as part of their experience, helping bridge classroom learning with real-world exploration and opportunity. Students have meaningful choice in their internship experience, exploring a wide range of fields aligned with their interests, passions, and future goals.

Why do many students lose their love of learning as they grow older? Drawing on The Disengaged Teen, visiting author Jenny Anderson joined our community for an Ed Series event and conversations with faculty and students about moving beyond “achievement mode” toward curiosity-driven exploration. At Cascades Academy, experiences from Lower School storylines to Upper School internships are designed to cultivate creativity, initiative, and real-world problem-solving — skills that matter more than ever in the age of AI.

At Cascades Academy, our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) is reflected in the choices we make and the culture we create — every day, in every classroom, and throughout our community. Our spring 2025 DEIB update reflects how this work continues to evolve. Across our programs and community partnerships, we are centering belonging, amplifying student voice, increasing access, and deepening cultural understanding.

In recent years, the role of screens in students’ lives has become a pressing topic of conversation among educators, parents, and researchers alike. At Cascades Academy, we’re exploring the benefits and challenges of screen use through various initiatives, events, and expert consultations. These efforts highlight the urgency of the conversation and the need for thoughtful, balanced approaches that center student well-being.

At Cascades Academy, a focus on continuous learning and innovation drives an exceptional, student-centered educational experience. The faculty’s dedication to professional growth and staying informed about emerging teaching methods ensures they are always evolving alongside their students. By embracing competency-based, hands-on learning and evidence-based practices, they equip students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to thrive in an ever-changing world. Read on to explore what faculty and staff are reading and leaning into this year.