ABOUT US
Innovate. Create. Achieve.
About
THE Higher Institute of Arts and Technology
Welcome to the Higher Institute of Arts & Technology (HIAT), Merrillville’s first and only tuition-free public charter school serving scholars in kindergarten through eighth grade. As part of the Phalen Leadership Academies (PLA) network, we are committed to providing a creative, inclusive, and supportive learning environment where every scholar is encouraged to grow, discover, and succeed.
At HIAT, our educators use arts integration, hands-on technology, small-group instruction, and research-based teaching strategies to ensure every child receives the support they need to build strong academic skills. Through personalized learning and a focus on character development, we help scholars gain confidence, curiosity, and leadership.
Beyond the classroom, scholars explore a wide range of enrichment opportunities—from robotics, STEM, and visual arts to dance, gaming, flag football, volleyball, cheerleading, and more. Family engagement, community partnerships, and wraparound supports ensure that every scholar and every family feels connected and empowered.
At HIAT, we believe every child has greatness within them. We strive to nurture confident learners, creative thinkers, and compassionate leaders—ready to thrive in school, at home, and in their communities.
Tensia Johnson
PrincipalContact Principal Johnson
Biafran T. Stiff
School ManagerContact Mr. Stiff
Redefining public education — empowering scholars, strengthening communities
Our Mission
At HIAT, we provide a creative, inclusive, and supportive environment where every scholar is encouraged to learn, explore, and grow. Through arts integration, hands-on technology, personalized instruction, and strong partnerships with families and the community, we empower scholars to develop academic confidence, strong character, and a lifelong love of learning.
Our Vision
We envision a vibrant school community where every child feels valued, supported, and inspired to succeed—in school and beyond. Together with our families, educators, and community partners, HIAT nurtures curious thinkers, compassionate leaders, and innovative problem solvers who are prepared to make a positive impact in their communities and the world.
Growth
HIAT scholars grow through hands-on, arts-integrated learning and small-group instruction that supports their academic progress in every subject.
Literacy
From kindergarten onward, scholars build strong reading foundations through daily practice, personalized support, and engaging lessons that nurture confidence and a love for learning.
Leadership
Through enrichment programs, athletics, STEM, and creative arts experiences, scholars develop independence, collaboration skills, and the confidence to lead in their school and community.
Together, these strengths reflect our commitment to creativity, growth, and empowering every scholar to learn, lead, and thrive.
Partners in Excellence
ABOUT
Phalen Leadership Academies
Phalen Leadership Academies (PLA) is a nonprofit network of public schools committed to helping children excel academically and grow in character. As part of the PLA network, HIAT embodies this mission by providing a rigorous, engaging, and supportive learning environment where every scholar is empowered to learn, lead, and thrive.
About Our
Partnership Model
As a PLA-managed charter school, HIAT benefits from the flexibility to design innovative programs that meet the needs of its community—while also drawing on PLA’s proven instructional practices, family engagement strategies, and network-wide support. This partnership allows HIAT to offer high-quality academics, strong enrichment programs, and a nurturing school culture that helps every scholar reach their full potential.
A holistic, evidence-based model for educational excellence that impacts scholars, families and communities.
Ready to Discover What’s Possible at HIAT?
ENROLL AT HIAT
At HIAT, scholars learn through arts integration, hands-on technology, and personalized small-group instruction that builds academic growth, confidence, and curiosity. Our creative, inquiry-based approach helps students think critically, collaborate with peers, and develop strong character and leadership skills.
HIAT offers a wide range of enrichment opportunities—including STEM, robotics, visual arts, dance, gaming, athletics, and more—to support the whole child. Scholars benefit from 1:1 technology, free transportation, nutritious meals, and a free summer learning program through Summer Advantage. Families can also access free job training and career development through SkilledUS, expanding opportunities for the entire household.
Academic Excellence
Our dedicated educators deliver engaging, rigorous instruction that challenges scholars to think deeply, solve problems, and strive for excellence.
Family Engagement
We believe success begins with partnership. Families connect with us through events, volunteer opportunities, and open communication that strengthen our school community.
Personalized Learning
Small-group instruction and ongoing support help us personalize learning for every child—ensuring steady academic growth and long-term success.
Our Commitment
At HIAT, we maintain high expectations in a welcoming, culturally responsive environment that nurtures creativity, builds confidence, and inspires a lifelong love of learning.
McKinney-Vento Act