The North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics has long been recognized for its innovative, out-of-the box methods of teaching and discovery. The epitome of this methodology is Mini-Term, an eight-day period during which students have the opportunity to engage in unique educational experiences outside of the regular school curriculum. In place of regular classes, students have two exciting options: to participate in one of the specialized mini-courses arranged by NCSSM faculty members, or to conduct an educational project of his or her own design, with the sponsorship of a member of the NCSSM faculty or staff. The goal of Mini-Term is to support students in exploration of a subject of personal interest in a way that will contribute to their academic and personal growth, as well as serve them in their future endeavors. It is this spirit of discovery, engagement, and independence that has influenced a new NCSSM initiative—Innovation Week.

Innovation Week, or I-Week, occurs once a trimester, and, like Mini-Term, allows faculty, staff, and students the opportunity to engage in new and exciting educational experiences in which they may not typically have the chance to participate. Students have tackled such projects as: participating in webinars on unique subjects, taking academic or cultural field trips, building websites, visiting college campuses, holding film screenings, or participating in service learning opportunities.

Unlike the eight-day structure of Mini-Term, I-Weeks incorporates an altered class schedule that gives students Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday afternoons to participate in their chosen activity. Activities can be sponsored by faculty or staff members as well as by students. Some submitted activity choices are open to a larger population of students, however, independent and small group projects are also encouraged.

Tom Clayton, NCSSM's Director of Academic Programs, spearheaded the committee that oversees Innovation Week and describes the opportunity as a way to provide "extended innovation, collaboration, and creative academic activities that our normal schedule simply does not allow."

"I-Week has been carved out of the rigorous NCSSM academic calendar specifically to enhance our academic and community life. For the most part, what actually occurs during I-Week will be freely determined by the community. It offers the opportunity to interact informally, yet productively, with colleagues and friends on any idea of interest," Clayton explained.

The inaugural Innovation Week was September 16–20, 2013. The next is slated for the week of January 20, 2014.