The tuition-free center, operated by Goodwill Education Initiatives, works with students from all economic and educational backgrounds while providing free transportation and child care.
From incarcerations and pregnancies to language barriers, each student has a story.
Donisha Marshal, who’s enrolled at the University Heights site, 3919 Madison Ave., said she returned to school to find a second chance.
When her high school sweetheart joined the Navy and was going to Germany, she dropped out of school and went with him. Now with 2- and 4-year-olds, she knows that in order to take care of her children, school is where the journey begins.
Marshal is looking to broaden her horizons at the center (www.excelcenter.org) and start a career, with aspirations to become a registered nurse.
In order for students to graduate they must fulfill the requirements as established by the Indiana Department of Education, said Scott Bess, president of Goodwill Education Initiatives. “Our model, values and results of educating adults have had a positive impact on the state of Indiana.
“We look forward to continuing our impact through our work in Hamilton County and Indianapolis while also growing our relationship with Ivy Tech, the University of Indianapolis and other community partners. Highly qualified, licensed instructors help these students work toward Core 40 diplomas.”