District reports 100% graduation rate, AP gains and plans for virtual academy

District curriculum and instruction staff reported academic outcomes and upcoming program changes. Curriculum director (Doherty) reported Lowell High School achieved a 100% graduation rate for the class of 2025 and an increase in Advanced Placement (AP) exam participation and pass rates — Doherty said the number of students scoring 3 or higher increased by 14% over the prior year. The number of students earning Indiana College Core technical certificates rose from eight in 2024 to 19 in 2025, staff said. Staff described classroom and schedule changes intended to increase instructional time: intermediate/middle school dismissal time will shift slightly to allow for blocked math and English language arts; high school advisory will be reduced to one day per week to provide more class time. Staff also cited House enrolled act 16 34 (as stated in the meeting) effective July 1, 2025, which requires that students who score above proficiency on iLearnMath be automatically enrolled in honors math classes — staff said the district was implementing schedule adjustments to comply and allow parents to opt out. On alternative delivery, staff reported the district met with Edmentum to design an online virtual academy. The model includes assigned licensed teachers, two live online lessons per week with a teacher and on‑demand teacher support during weekdays; staff said the platform will have an additional fee and that the district hopes to open enrollment next week for interested families. Staff said the district will publicize open enrollment, including for families outside the Tri Creek boundaries who may enroll under open‑enrollment rules. Next steps: staff will proceed with timetable adjustments, textbook adoption planning for ELA and math, and pilot enrollment for the Edmentum virtual academy.