ʦapp Lab Schools Recognized by Discovery Education
From left, Joel Herbst, Ed.D., vice president for PK-12 pre-baccalaureate programs and ʦapp Lab Schools superintendent; Connie Hoff, middle school assistant principal; Rebecca Kasten, elementary school assistant principal; Kimberly Hallstrom; high school assistant principal; Lauren Robinson, Ed.D., principal of A.D. Henderson University School and ʦapp High School; Ryan Roach, manager, partner success, Discovery Education; A.D. Henderson kindergarten ʦapp (Photo by Alex Dolce)
A.D. Henderson University School and ʦapp High School – together known as ʦapp Lab Schools – are among just six schools nationwide to be selected as “School of the Year” as part of the 2026 Discovery Education Awards.
The ʦapp Lab Schools were honored for its vertically aligned, inquiry-based STEM instruction, as well as its nationally recognized research and applied learning model. As a public K-12 laboratory school district, the schools integrate rigorous academics with authentic research experiences, hands-on laboratory learning and interdisciplinary instruction beginning in the earliest grades.
“Being named Discovery Education School of the Year is a powerful affirmation of the exceptional work taking place throughout ʦapp Laboratory Schools,” said Joel Herbst, Ed.D., vice president for PK-12 pre-baccalaureate programs and ʦapp Lab Schools superintendent. “Our ʦapp benefit from a world-class faculty and staff who create a learning environment grounded in applied learning through innovation, curiosity and discovery, all driven by experiential learning and woven into the fabric of ʦapp, a top 100 R1 university. This recognition reflects the deep commitment of our faculty and staff, who have developed a model that prepares ʦapp not only for academic success, but to think critically and contribute meaningfully to our community, state and nation.”
Students at ʦapp Lab Schools are held to high academic expectations while supported through a comprehensive Multi-Tiered System of Supports framework and a schoolwide culture that positions learners as active contributors to knowledge creation. Purpose-built science spaces, peer mentoring models and university-supported research opportunities allow ʦapp to engage in discovery, experimentation and public demonstrations of learning. Together, these practices foster early academic confidence, curiosity and college readiness, positioning the ʦapp Lab Schools as a national model for innovative teaching, learning and student achievement.
“We are absolutely thrilled to receive this recognition,” said Lauren Robinson, Ed.D., principal of A.D. Henderson University School and ʦapp High School. “This honor celebrates the incredible curiosity, creativity and dedication our ʦapp and teachers bring to learning every day. From the earliest grades, our ʦapp are immersed in hands-on, interdisciplinary experiences that empower them to explore boldly and share their discoveries with confidence. This award is a reflection of a school community that truly embraces innovation, collaboration and a passion for discovery.”
Discovery Education is a global education technology leader whose innovative solutions empower educators and advance student learning. Discovery Education’s solutions have served more than 100 million ʦapp globally, supporting effective teaching and learning in 45% of U.S. K-12 schools and in 100+ countries and territories.
For more information about the 2026 Discovery Education Awards, visit , and for the award announcement, visit .
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