International Prep Academy

International Prep Academy (IPA) in Champaign, Illinois is Champaign Unit 4’s only whole-school dual-language program, offering instruction in both English and Spanish with a mission to cultivate bilingual, biliterate, and multicultural students. Under the leadership of Dr. Jonathan Kosovski, IPA fosters equity, social justice, and strong family-community ties. The school is expanding grade by grade—transitioning toward a K–8 model—to better serve newcomer and diverse learners. IPA also supports academic success through after-school literacy programs like SOAR, in partnership with UIUC, where volunteer mentors provide targeted tutoring. With its multicultural emphasis and inclusive programming, IPA stands out as a bridge between languages, cultures, and academic excellence in Champaign.

IPA is phasing in additional grade levels to become Champaign Unit 4’s first K–8 school, expanding its dual-language model. IPA hosts the SOAR program, pairing its emergent bilingual students (grades 3–5) with UIUC volunteers for weekly literacy support.

Q1: What makes IPA unique within its district? A: IPA is the only whole-school dual-language (English–Spanish) program in Unit 4, nurturing students to become bilingual, biliterate, and comfortable in multicultural environments. Q2: What after-school learning support exists at IPA? A: The SOAR (Student Opportunities for After-School Resources) initiative provides literacy and homework support by pairing IPA’s emergent bilingual students in grades 3–5 with University of Illinois student mentors. Q3: Who leads IPA and what is their vision? A: Dr. Jonathan Kosovski, the principal, champions dual-language instruction and equity, guiding IPA’s transition to a K–8 school and strengthening community-family relationships. Q4: How has IPA communicated its instructional focus recently? A: In late 2023, IPA launched a school improvement emphasis on enhancing both receptive and expressive multilingual comprehension across its student population. Q5: Are there upcoming facility updates or upgrades planned? A: Yes—IPA is part of a districtwide renovation funded by a referendum that includes expansion of the cafeteria and updates to the library and gym facilities.