Christel House, IPS Looking to Partner on High School
Christel House Academy South (photo courtesy of Christel House Indianapolis)
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowChristel House Indianapolis is looking to relocate two of its educational institutions on the city’s south side. The nonprofit says it is negotiating with Indianapolis Public Schools to move Christel House Academy South and the Christel House DORS adult high school to the Manual High School campus.
As part of the proposed partnership, Christel House would also assume operation of Manual High School beginning in the 2020-2021 academic year. Christel House is an IPS Innovation Network School and, if the partnership is approved, the nonprofit says it would have autonomy to operate Manual in the same way as it currently does at its south side campus.
“We would combine our successful Christel House model with the benefits of expanded building facilities, student transportation support, and access to IPS resources,” said Bart Peterson, chief executive officer of Christel House International. “This is an opportunity for Christel House to serve more students through our high-quality, holistic educational programs. Christel House at Manual would be unlike any other school in the State of Indiana.”
Manual High School was taken over by the state in 2012, along with two other schools, according to Chalkbeat. However, the nonprofit news organization reports the state control of the schools is expected to cease at the end of the current school year.
As part of the deal, Christel House would move its K-12 school and DORS adult classes to Manual. Christel House says it would maintain two separate high schools on the campus for three years, which would allow current students to complete their education as Manual High School Graduates. Additionally, Christel House Academy West ninth graders would join the high school’s campus at Manual, beginning in 2021.
Peterson adds Christel House would retain Manual as part of the new school’s name. “Christel House will recognize the history and traditions of Manual High School and will also honor the late Christel House Academy Board member, Dr. Gus Watanabe, for whom our current high school is named.”