Indianapolis unveils plans for adult high school: An investment in education and community
Indianapolis, Indiana – The City of Indianapolis, in conjunction with Goodwill of Central and Southern Indiana and Indianapolis Public Schools, has revealed plans for the establishment of an adult high school on the southeast side of the city, as stated in a recent press release from the city authorities.
Kent Kramer, the President and CEO of Goodwill of Central and Southern Indiana, expressed satisfaction over the partnership with Mayor Joe Hogsett and IPS, highlighting that the new initiative aims to improve educational and employment prospects for families in the Southeast Indianapolis area. In particular, he emphasized that the efforts would prioritize individuals involved in the justice system. The Excel Center is an evidence-based model focused on helping adults earn their high school diploma, increase their independence, and reach their potential while preparing them to strengthen Indiana’s workforce,” Kramer stated.
The upcoming Excel Center Southeast adult high school is scheduled to open its doors later this year at the Paul I. Miller School 114, expanding opportunities for students to secure a high school diploma, acquire college credits, and earn industry certifications.
Dr. Aleesia Johnson, IPS Superintendent, conveyed the school system’s enthusiasm about the collaboration with The Excel Center, envisaging it as a platform for adult students to not only gain academic advancement but also make progress in life. She further elucidated that the utilization of the Paul I. Miller building aligns with the district’s commitment to innovative and progressive educational pathways for students of all ages, as well as fulfilling the promise to use buildings in ways that continually benefit the community.
Since the inception of the first campus in 2010, The Excel Centers in Central and Southern Indiana have seen over 7,000 students receive their diplomas. A recent study provides compelling evidence for the effectiveness of the Excel Center, suggesting that its graduates are projected to earn 39 percent more than their peers within five years of graduation.
The establishment of the new adult high school represents a $2 million investment sourced from the City’s allocation of the American Rescue Plan. This expenditure received the unanimous approval of the City-County Council.
