Reading School District Unveils Progress on Innovation Academy
The Reading School District showcased significant progress on its new Innovation Academy during a tour on August 15, 2025. Superintendent Dr. Khalid Mumin, alongside other local and district officials, explored the nearly completed facility located on North Ninth Street, which is designed to emphasize science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education.
Originally initiated during Dr. Mumin’s first tenure as superintendent, the project faced numerous challenges, including geological obstacles and issues with federal funding. After his departure in 2021, Dr. Jennifer Murray took the reins and continued to advance the project, overcoming various hurdles along the way. The district’s perseverance has led to the construction of a state-of-the-art building that reflects its commitment to educational innovation.
During the tour, Dr. Mumin expressed his excitement about the academy’s potential. “This will allow our students to have their fingers on the pulse of the city,” he stated. “They’re going to know they can compete with anyone, nationally or even internationally.” This sentiment highlights the academy’s goal of fostering a competitive spirit among students.
The $77 million facility spans 144,000 square feet and is expected to be fully operational by mid-November 2025. Initially, it will be utilized for professional development as the school year progresses. By the 2026-27 academic year, the Innovation Academy will welcome around 1,000 students in grades 10 through 12, along with approximately 100 staff members.
The academy’s design features a blend of traditional and innovative educational spaces. The first two floors will accommodate core subjects such as math, English, and social studies, while the upper floors will focus on specialized innovation courses. Wanda Gonzalez-Crespo, the district’s assistant superintendent for school improvement, noted that students will have the option to choose from four innovation tracks: engineering, medical science, computer science and internet technology, and STEM and human services.
Dr. Mumin and Dr. Noahleen Betts, the school board president, emphasized the importance of the academy not only as an educational institution but also as a community resource. The building will feature essential amenities such as a gymnasium, cafeteria, and classrooms, in addition to unique elements like a media center, underground parking garage, and a rooftop outdoor classroom.
As the Reading School District looks forward to the academy’s opening, the excitement surrounding this initiative continues to build. The Innovation Academy represents a significant investment in the future of education in Reading, aiming to equip students with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly competitive global landscape.
