Compiled by Anna Skinner

The State of the Schools was presented by Superintendents Dr. Allen Bourf and Dr. Nicholas Wahl to the Carmel and Fishers OneZone Chamber of Commerce at a luncheon on Sept. 16 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

What happened: Some academies developed throughout HSE schools have strengthened learning.

Why it matters: “The teaching and learning situation is much greater preparation for the world of work and college,” Bourf said. Bourf said that HSE high schools have partnered with more colleges around the state to provide duel credit opportunities for students. In addition to this duel credits, Bourf said he plans on implementing satellite classrooms from the J. Everett Light Career Center into HSE’s and Fisher’s college career centers to result in making those centers greater for students.

What happened: Bourf introduced a pilot project for third graders and first graders of HSE schools.

Why it matters: Third graders will be taking two field trips to Conner Prairie, one in the fall and one in the spring. Between the two events, Conner Prairie personnel will be coming into those classrooms and working with the teachers to make sure those field events are intermeshed with STEM curriculum. Likewise, the city of Fishers will be working with all first grade students to provide a similar intermeshed learning experience.

What happened: Bourf spoke about a connection with Launch Fishers  and a boot camp hosted this summer

Why it matters: According to Bourf, the experience touched students and changed some’s career trajectory. Similar to the JEL satellite pieces, Bourf plans on putting satellite learning into the two high schools about Launch Fishers.

What happened: US News and World Report listed the 10 best high schools in Indiana.

Why it matters: Out of the 10 best, Hamilton County has four of those high schools, including HSE and Fishers.