Innovate. Create. Achieve.

Higher Institute of Arts and Technology

TUITION FREE | GRADES K-8

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OUR APPROACH

How HIAT Empowers Scholars

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Focused on Every Child’s Growth

At the Higher Institute of Arts & Technology, we create a calm, inclusive, and culturally responsive environment where every scholar is encouraged to learn, express, and thrive. As Merrillville’s first and only tuition-free charter school, we blend arts integration, hands-on technology, and evidence-based instruction to meet scholars where they are and help them grow. 

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Learning Beyond the Classroom

At HIAT, learning is active, creative, and connected to the real world. Scholars explore robotics, STEM, dance, gaming, visual arts, and a growing selection of extracurricular programs—including flag football, volleyball, cheerleading, and more. Experiential learning, project-based activities, and opportunities for inquiry help scholars collaborate, question, and innovate. 

With a focus on creativity, leadership, and community, our approach empowers scholars to reach their full potential and build a strong foundation for lifelong success.

ENROLL AT THE HIGHER INSTITUTE OF ARTS AND TECHNOLOGY!

Join our HIAT family today—where your scholar’s success story begins.

We believe every scholar deserves a future filled with opportunity. Our school provides a small, nurturing environment where caring teachers build strong relationships and inspire scholars to reach their highest potential.

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Our

Testimonials

— Parent of a 3rd Grade Scholar

“HIAT has been such a positive experience for my son. The teachers truly care and make sure every child feels supported, encouraged, and challenged.”

— 4th Grade Scholar

“I love that we get to learn with art and technology. We do projects, build things, and try new activities every week.”

— Parent of a 5th Grade Scholar

“Since enrolling at HIAT, my daughter’s confidence and excitement for learning have grown so much. She comes home proud of what she creates.”

— 6th Grade Scholar

“At HIAT, my teachers push me to do my best and remind me to be creative, kind, and never give up.”

McKinney-Vento Act

The McKinney-Vento Act protects scholars from discrimination based on their lack of a permanent residence. Homeless Scholars are eligible to receive a variety of services including: transportation services, free meals under the school nutrition programs, limited English proficiency class, gifted and talented programs, and special education services based on a scholar’s eligibility. Homeless Scholars will not be denied enrollment based on lack of proof of residency. Please consult the McKinney-Vento Act Liaison if you need assistance. The PLA Network does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, disability or national origin in any employment and/or educational opportunity. No person shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise subjected to unlawful discrimination in any program or activity for which the PLA Network Board is responsible or for which it receives financial assistance from the U.S. Department of Education. The PLA Network values diversity. Phalen Leadership Academies (PLA) is committed to making its websites accessible for all, including individuals with disabilities, and strives to ensure accessibility currently and as new technologies emerge. PLA welcomes questions and input on its sites' accessibility at each development phase. Please contact our Call Center at 888.655.0777 or submit feedback to Communications@PhalenAcademies.org if you encounter an issue accessing any portion of the network's websites.

Click here to learn more about the network's digital accessibility efforts.