Photos courtesy of Unbound Academy and Novatio School
Imagine a school day where your child completes core academic subjects in just two hours, then spends the afternoon launching a podcast, building an app, or even developing a startup. For families in Peoria and across Arizona, this is no longer a futuristic fantasy — it’s reality, thanks to the launch of two groundbreaking AI-powered schools: Unbound Academy and Novatio School.
These innovative institutions are powered by a partnership between Prequel, a life skills education company, and 2 Hour Learning, an AI-driven platform that customizes academics to each student’s level and pace. Arizona is the first state in the nation to roll out this model of personalized, AI-based education on a wide scale and early signs suggest it may transform the way children learn.
“Our mission is to redefine education by combining AI-personalized learning with real-world experience,” said Ivy Xu, CEO of Prequel. “This isn’t about catching up, it’s about getting ahead and preparing students to thrive in a future driven by innovation.”
AI Makes Learning Faster and Smarter
One of the most eye-catching features of this new model is its promise of efficiency. At Unbound Academy, students are able to complete personalized core academic instruction in just two hours per day. That’s not a gimmick: these schools are already producing top 10% national test scores, a feat traditionally achieved only through hours of daily homework and tutoring.
The secret? AI technology that adapts in real-time to students’ strengths and weaknesses. Instead of waiting days for a teacher to review an assignment, students receive instant feedback on their progress and suggested steps to improve.
“AI gives me feedback right away, so I always know what I need to fix,” said Joe, a student at a 2 Hour Learning school. “It helps me stay on top of things and improve faster.”
This efficiency doesn’t replace teachers; it empowers them. Real, certified educators are at the center of both Unbound and Novatio, using AI to free up time from administrative tasks and focus more on mentorship, critical thinking, and emotional support.
“AI isn’t taking over teaching,” said JP Guerra, a teacher at Novatio School. “It’s allowing us to do what we do best — connect with students, challenge them, and support their growth.”
Students Don’t Just Learn, They Build
After morning academics, students shift into project-based learning. Using what they’ve learned, they apply their skills to real-world challenges — developing businesses, breaking world records, building mental health apps, and even launching their own music labels. These hands-on programs are led by Prequel, whose after-school initiatives boast impressive outcomes: 80% of students involved in their extracurriculars are accepted into top 20 U.S. colleges.
“Our students are learning to use AI not just to study, but to create,” said Xu. “We’ve seen teens launch startups, sign artists to record deals, and build apps that serve thousands — all before they graduate high school.”
That focus on creativity and critical thinking stands in stark contrast to traditional models, which often emphasize memorization and standardized tests.
Personalized, Not Isolated
A concern many parents have about AI education is that it might be isolating. But the team behind Unbound and Novatio has gone out of its way to ensure students remain socially and emotionally connected.
“AI allows us to meet each student where they are academically, but we don’t just leave them behind a screen,” said MacKenzie Price, founder of 2 Hour Learning. “We integrate human interaction, teamwork, and collaboration into everything we do.”
Students participate in daily group discussions, live workshops, and collaborative projects — building friendships while learning vital communication and leadership skills.
“Honestly, it feels more interactive than my old school,” said Chloe, a student at a 2 Hour Learning school. “We’re constantly working together, not just sitting through lessons.”
Solving a Real Problem in Education
The push toward AI-powered learning comes at a critical time. Nationally, 65% of fourth graders are not proficient in reading, and many high school graduates read at a third-grade level. Traditional classrooms often force students to move on before mastering foundational skills, leading to disengagement and lifelong learning gaps.
“Arizona families deserve better,” said Xu. “We’re offering an education that’s flexible, effective, and deeply relevant to today’s world.”
Unbound Academy is a tuition-free charter school, and Novatio School is fully covered through Arizona’s Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) program — making both accessible to local families.
The Future Is Now
For parents wondering if this new model is right for their child, educators suggest asking one simple question: Is your student thriving or just surviving?
“We’re not here to tweak the old system,” said Price. “We’re here to reinvent it.”
With students excelling academically, creating real-world solutions, and landing spots at elite universities, AI-powered education isn’t just a trend. It’s the future — and it’s starting right here in Arizona.
To learn more or enroll, visit novatio.school or unbound.school.