Ensuring equitable access to quality secondary education is a persistent challenge, often hindered by economic factors. This study analyzes a bottom-up policy innovation implemented by SMA Negeri 3 Citra Bangsa, a public high school in North Aceh, in the form of a comprehensive free-fee program for new student admission. This innovation was designed to address declining enrollment caused by parental economic constraints and diminishing school appeal. Using a qualitative case study approach, data were collected through in-depth interviews with 15 informants (including the principal, teachers, school committee, parents, and students), observation, and document analysis. The findings reveal that the free-fee policy innovation—which covers registration fees, school uniforms, and first-semester tuition for high-achieving students—was remarkably successful. This success is evidenced by a dramatic enrollment surge of over 100%, from 50 students in 2023 to 109 in 2024. The innovation model is driven by visionary school leadership, supported by active stakeholder participation, and funded through an alternative financing scheme. This study concludes that locally initiated, community-responsive policy innovations are a highly effective strategy for increasing educational access and enhancing school competitiveness at the local level.