Launching Futures: Incline High School Prepares Students for What’s Next

Mary Danahey, Incline Education Fund: Originally published in the Families & Education Edition of LIVE.WORK.PLAY Magazine

High school is where students begin turning interests into ambitions and preparing for life beyond graduation. At Incline High School (IHS), that journey unfolds in a close-knit environment where every student is known, challenged, and inspired to succeed.

With approximately 300 students, IHS combines the personalized attention of a small school with opportunities typically found on much larger campuses. Recognized as a Nevada Five-Star School, students can accelerate their education through Advanced Placement and dual-credit courses, giving them the opportunity to earn college credit, reduce future tuition costs, and begin college with credits already completed.

Learning extends well beyond the classroom. Through the school’s Personalized Learning Academy (PLA), students connect academics with hands-on projects, internships, and career exploration. Whether pursuing engineering, business, health sciences, education, environmental studies, or the arts, students gain real-world experience while exploring college and career pathways long before graduation.

That commitment to excellence extends across campus. Last year, IHS students achieved a 100% pass rate in AP: Research, Seminar, Psychology, Precalculus, and English Language & Composition classes. The nationally recognized We the People team placed 10th in the nation, while Highlander athletic teams continued to compete at the highest levels, regularly qualifying for Nevada state championships.

Creativity thrives alongside academics. A transformative renovation of the Duffield Theater, made possible by the Dave & Cheryl Duffield Foundation, added a state-of-the-art sound system, professional recording studio, and media editing suite. These facilities give students hands-on experience in music, theater, audiovisual production, and digital storytelling using industry-standard technology.

Students also benefit from strong community partnerships. Through the Incline Education Fund, the HOPA Mentor Program connects students with local professionals, while college and career initiatives, including the annual College & Career Fair, introduce students to universities, trade schools, apprenticeships, military pathways, and local employers.

At Incline High School, students don’t have to choose between personalized attention and exceptional opportunity. They learn in a school culture where students feel connected, supported, and engaged (a commitment reflected in the lowest chronic absenteeism rate in the Washoe County School District). Graduates leave with rigorous academics, meaningful real-world experiences, and the confidence to pursue whatever path comes next. 

For more information call: (775) 832-4260