INDIANAPOLIS — This summer, thousands of Hoosier high school students will have the opportunity to accelerate the completion of a high-demand credential or one year of college credit through a new partnership between the State of Indiana, Ivy Tech Community College and Vincennes University.
“As we work to build intentional, future-focused pathways for all, this initiative will help jumpstart a world of opportunity for eligible students,” Dr. Katie Jenner, Indiana Secretary of Education said.
The initiative — called Crossing the Finish Line — will accelerate learning for thousands of high school juniors and seniors. It is available for students who are close to completing a high-demand credential or the Indiana College Core, which is a 30-credit hour block of general education college-level courses that transfers to any public higher education institutions across Indiana.
“Saving on college costs is always important, but right now even more so,” Ivy Tech Terre Haute Chancellor Lea Anne Crooks said. “And it’s actually not just the cost. It gives them a leg up so they will be entering into their next step ready to hit the ground running.”
The initiative will cover students’ tuition, fees, books, as well as the cost of obtaining transcripts and any required College Level Examination Program tests.
Eligible students will receive emails and mailings in the coming weeks from Ivy Tech, directing them to complete an interest form. From there, Ivy Tech will speak with interested students and assist them in obtaining transcripts to identify the courses needed to earn their respective credentials. Vincennes University will also work with students individually to help them complete the Indiana College Core or another credential.
“Completing a college credential before starting college boosts confidence, reduces college costs, and improves the likelihood of launching into a successful career,” Ivy Tech Community College President Sue Ellspermann. “We believe this summer program is a win for students, families, schools and employers.”
School principals will be provided with a list of eligible students so that they can help empower students and families through this process.
“Vincennes University is proud to join this important and timely effort to help Hoosier students and families reach important milestones in their educational journey,” Vincennes University President Chuck Johnson said. “VU is committed to making additional courses and seats available to students who take advantage of this great opportunity and we will work hard to assist them with taking the next steps in their education and careers.”
Crooks noted that it is never too early to start looking into the program.
“There are options in the high school, whether it be part of this program, but if you have a student who is not a senior this year at their high school, there are options for them to complete these credentials,” she said. “I would encourage parents to start looking into this because it is a huge savings and a huge opportunity for students.”
