Indy Standard

For Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) students Courtney Alred-Banks and Pamela Mixon, having their writing displayed at the Indianapolis International Airport’s KIND Gallery is an achievement beyond their wildest dreams.

“I think it’s great that we have this to let people know about all of the good that’s happening at Tech. Being a published author is going to encourage me to write some more,” said Alred-Banks, who will graduate from Arsenal Technical High School in 2026.

Mixon, a member of the 2025 graduating class at Shortridge High School, said she was filled with mixed emotions: disbelief and a deep sense of accomplishment.

“It doesn’t feel real. I never came to high school expecting that kind of opportunity. I feel really accomplished now. Like I’ve done what I set out to do with my writing.” Mixon said. “My writing can be sad, and obviously I don’t want anyone to feel sad. But if someone reading my work has had similar experiences, I hope they can relate. I want them to feel seen and understood.”

Their works, published in literary journals for each IPS high school, are currently featured in a special exhibit at the KIND Gallery, located within the Indianapolis International Airport. The student publications are an artifact of the district’s partnership with the Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library (KVML), which curated the rest of the gallery to highlight the organization’s other programming and the legacy of Vonnegut, the Slaughterhouse Five author who graduated from Shortridge.

The KIND gallery exhibition, sponsored by the Indy Arts Council and the Indianapolis Airport Authority, celebrates not only the literary achievements of these students but also the vibrant cultural and artistic community within Indianapolis. Visitors to the airport have the unique opportunity to engage with the work of emerging authors whose voices reflect diverse experiences and aspirations.

Chris Speckman, IPS Writing Center Coordinator, believes that for these IPS students, this is more than just a display.

“It’s a milestone that validates their hard work and dedication. As they see their words reaching thousands of travelers, they’re reminded that their stories have the power to inspire, connect, and leave a lasting impact.”

The gallery also includes photos and information about four Vonnegut Youth Writing Center locations: Arsenal Tech, Crispus Attucks, George Washington, and Shortridge. These centers are staffed by IPS Writing Specialists and volunteer tutors from KVML.

Speckman noted that as IPS continues to expand college credit opportunities, these writing centers are more crucial than ever in empowering students academically while nurturing their creative spirits.

The display at KIND Gallery stands as a testament to education's transformative power and Kurt Vonnegut’s enduring legacy on future storytellers.

Although only ticketed travelers can view the airport exhibition directly, there will be a Writing Center Showcase open to the public from 6 to 8 p.m. on Sept. 18 at Lone Hall on Tech’s campus. The event will feature high school poets and storytellers with opportunities to purchase literary journals containing their work.