Overview

Early disparities in achievement place students on a track that lacks college and career readiness. Students who do not pursue college or a technical career earn significantly less income and are less likely to move to a more affluent community. This project will help low-income students access more significant educational opportunities. InnoPower and Ivy Tech Community College are focused on engaging, educating, and inspiring students to take and complete Dual Credit courses. READI funding will be used to train and pay a stipend to two teachers at Warren Central, Lawrence Central, and Lawrence North High Schools who will teach and serve as entrepreneur champions in the two districts. The initiative is expected to serve 30 students per year for four years, or 120 students. This project will be completed in coordination with Ivy Tech Community College, Walker Career Center, and the Sagamore Institute. Dual Credit Courses can save families an estimated $69 million in tuition costs and provide access to educational opportunities. The project will begin in January 2023 and is expected to be completed in December 2026. As a result of participating in the Talent Rich program, students will be contributors to the pool of Hoosiers looking to start a business, challenged to take risks, and connected to local business leaders for fireside chats, tours, and mentorship.