Indy Standard

Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) is set to launch a comprehensive counseling program aimed at addressing the social, emotional, behavioral, and mental health needs of students, thanks to a financial boost from Butler University. The district’s Postsecondary Readiness Department has been awarded a $100,000 Comprehensive School Health Initiative Grant from Butler University to fund the project titled “Rebuilding Stronger: Expanding Comprehensive School Counseling Programming in Indianapolis Public Schools.”

This initiative is part of IPS’s broader Rebuilding Stronger effort, which aims to close equity and opportunity gaps while providing equitable learning opportunities for all students. Aaron Munson, director of Middle School Academies and Pathways for the district’s Postsecondary Readiness Department, stated that "this initiative aligns with IPS’s broader goals of improving student outcomes, including attendance and overall mental health."

Munson emphasized that the project is supported by a dedicated team of district leaders and community partners who are working together to implement these strategies effectively. The goal is to enhance Tier 1 services that provide broad support to students while also targeting more intensive interventions for those who need them. By integrating these models, IPS seeks to create safer, more inclusive, and positive school communities and make systemic changes with lasting impacts on the district.

The initiative will also strengthen partnerships with Success Bound—the middle school advisory curriculum—and offer additional opportunities for school counselors and administrators to attend the Hatchings National Conference. This conference aims at strengthening the Comprehensive School Counseling Model in IPS schools.

Additionally, the proposal includes plans to expand collaboration with the Association for Middle Level Education and develop new curriculum opportunities.