George Washington High School will welcome educators from across the country on March 26 to showcase its efforts in supporting freshmen and laying a strong foundation for graduation. The event follows the school’s recognition in 2024 by the Center for High School Success as a National Freshman On-Track Demonstration Site, an honor given to select schools nationwide that serve as models for improving ninth-grade outcomes.
This initiative is important because research shows that students who finish their freshman year on track are significantly more likely to graduate. According to studies by the University of Chicago Consortium on School Research, these students are three to four times more likely to earn their diploma.
Principal Dr. Stanley Law said, “This recognition reflects the incredible work happening across our entire school community. Our staff believes that success in high school begins in the first year. When we help freshmen build strong habits and stay on track, we’re setting them up not just for graduation, but for success in college, career, and life.”
During the visit, participants will observe how George Washington’s teams use data analysis, collaboration among staff members, and targeted support systems designed to identify challenges early and respond quickly. Attendees will review Freshman Success Team meetings and classroom instruction aimed at keeping students engaged and successful throughout their first year.
Law said that over five years of partnership with the Center for High School Success have led George Washington’s freshman on-track rate to rise from about 55 percent to 95 percent—the highest rate in Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS). The school’s graduation rate has also increased during this period, reaching 90.06 percent in 2025.
Indianapolis Public Schools emphasizes racial equity as a core strategic priority according to its official website. IPS serves over 30,000 students according to its official website and focuses on fostering academic excellence through tailored education built around relationships according to its official website. Aleesia Johnson serves as superintendent of IPS according to its official website. The district provides services through a network of schools serving families in central Indianapolis according to its official website.