Indy Standard

Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) is focusing on early career exploration for students, particularly those in eighth grade, as part of its efforts to improve academic outcomes and prepare students for life after graduation. The district’s approach aligns with recent changes to Indiana’s high school graduation requirements, which encourage students to consider one of three postsecondary paths: college enrollment, employment, or military enlistment.

The initiative is a central element of the district’s Rebuilding Stronger plan. This plan seeks to enhance student experiences by providing more guidance and support during middle school years when many students begin forming their interests and goals.

“We’re embracing the opportunity to help eighth-graders begin mapping out their high school experience in a way that’s purposeful, empowering, and deeply connected to their future,” said Melody Coryell, Executive Director of Postsecondary Readiness for IPS.

Coryell emphasized that the goal is not to have every student decide on a permanent path at an early age but rather to give them opportunities for real-world exploration. “The point isn’t to lock students into one path. It’s to give them a chance to explore real-world experiences early so they can make more informed decisions as they grow. Research and experience both tell us something important: young people often figure out what they don’t want to do before they discover what they do want to pursue. The power is in the process.”

She added that IPS will provide ongoing support for both students and families throughout these decisions. “We don’t expect every eighth grader to have it all figured out—but we do believe in starting the conversation early. Because what matters most isn’t choosing the ‘perfect’ path. It’s making a choice and stepping forward.”

According to Coryell, this approach aims not only at meeting graduation requirements but also at helping each student discover their strengths and interests so they are better prepared for future challenges. “Our district is here to help students make thoughtful, supported choices that keep all doors open. Whether a student earns college credit, an industry credential, completes a pathway, or gains work-based experience, they’ll graduate better prepared for whatever comes next.”

“In the end, this is about more than graduation requirements. It’s about giving every student the chance to discover who they are, what they care about, and how they want to contribute to the world. And that’s a future worth planning,” Coryell said.