Goodwill of Central and Southern Indiana and Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) gathered with Mayor Joe Hogsett to celebrate the completion of The Excel Center, located at the former IPS Paul I. Miller 114.
The school began serving students in 2023 by expanding educational options and opportunities for adults. Last year, the center served more than 500 students and 25 graduated with their high school diplomas.
“Thanks to Goodwill and The Excel Center, Indianapolis Public Schools, and our critical $2 million investment of ARPA funding, more adults in our city can receive their education and provide a better life for themselves and their families,” Hogsett said.
The Excel Center is open to any adult seeking a high school diploma, college credits and industry certifications. The curriculum is expedited, and scheduling is flexible to ensure students can graduate quickly and enter the workforce or postsecondary education.
“Today is an opportunity to recognize those who have worked tirelessly to bring our programs to life as well as the community leaders who have welcomed and supported us,” said Kent A. Kramer, president and CEO of Goodwill of Central and Southern Indiana.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 10% of working-age adults in Marion County lack a high school diploma, making them more likely to be involved in the criminal justice system, earn significantly less in their lifetime and make it less likely for their own children to graduate from high school.
“This is a testament to what we can achieve when educational institutions and community organizations join forces with a shared vision of inclusivity and second chances,” said Dr. William Murphy, IPS chief operations officer.
The Excel Center locations in central and southern Indiana have graduated nearly 9,000 students since opening in 2010. A recent study by the University of Notre Dame showed that graduates of the Excel center earn 39% more than their peers five years after graduation.
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Contact Health & Environmental Reporter Hanna Rauworth at 317-762-7854 or follow her on Instagram at @hanna.rauworth.
Hanna Rauworth is the Health & Environmental Reporter for the Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper, where she covers topics at the intersection of public health, environmental issues, and community impact. With a commitment to storytelling that informs and empowers, she strives to highlight the challenges and solutions shaping the well-being of Indianapolis residents.
