Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) announced on April 28 that 36 students from Arsenal Technical, Crispus Attucks, and George Washington high schools will receive college credentials from Ivy Tech Community College before graduating from high school. The students will participate in a ceremony at Ivy Tech on April 30, marking the first time an IPS cohort has completed this level of achievement through the district’s expanded dual-credit and Early College partnership with Ivy Tech.
This development is part of IPS’s effort to prepare students for life after high school by offering opportunities to earn either an associate degree or complete the Indiana College Core, a credential equivalent to one year of college. “By earning real college credit in a supportive high school environment, students build the academic confidence they need to succeed beyond graduation,” said Dr. Austin Dodd, director of high school academies and pathways at IPS. “And because the Indiana College Core is fully transferable across all Indiana public colleges, students aren’t taking on risk. They’re building momentum.” Dodd also said that these programs allow graduates more options as they move forward: “Whether they continue to a four-year university or move directly into high-wage careers through an associate degree or technical credential from Ivy Tech, they’re leaving IPS with options, confidence, and real postsecondary progress already underway.”
Dr. Andrew Buckle, executive director of K-14 at Ivy Tech Community College Indianapolis, said partnerships are key for expanding access: “Seeing these students cross the stage with college credentials in hand before they’ve even received their high school diplomas is a powerful reflection of what’s possible when strong partnerships align around student success.” Buckle added that such collaborations help remove barriers to higher education.
Dodd noted that during the 2025–26 school year IPS expects its students will earn over 9,000 college credits—a 32% increase compared to last year. Each participating school offers pathways for both the Indiana College Core and associate degrees totaling up to 60 credits. He reported recent growth in postsecondary commitment as well; among one cohort of IPS graduates heading to IU-Indianapolis there was a 44% increase over two years.
Financial benefits were also highlighted by Dodd: completing the Indiana College Core can save families up to one year’s tuition while earning an associate degree may cut four-year costs by half.
Indianapolis Public Schools emphasizes racial equity as a core strategic priority according to its official website. The district serves over 30,000 students according to its official website and focuses on fostering academic excellence through tailored education according to its official website. Aleesia Johnson serves as superintendent according to its official website. The district provides services throughout central Indianapolis according to its official website through a network of schools and programs serving local families according to its official website.
“For IPS, April 30 represents more than a ceremony,” Dodd said. “It signals a continued investment in ensuring students graduate not only prepared for college but already on their way.”
