Education

By Lesley DeVoss—  MUNCIE, IN—An Ivy Tech difference maker is an individual who creates positive change and makes a significant impact on the lives of Ivy Tech students, alumni, and the communities they serve. The 2025 Ivy Tech Difference Makers are: Jeannie Hamblin-Fox, Vice Chancellor for Completions and Site Administration Rebekah Ireland, Executive Director of K-18 Initiatives Kristin Keisling, Vice Chancellor for Finance and Strategic Compliance Jennifer Skene, Vice Chancellor for Workforce Partnerships and Economic Impact Amber Young, Vice Chancellor…

National expert Fabian Ramirez uses personal experience to connect with kids By Andy Klotz— MUNCIE, IN—The first day of middle school changed the life of Fabian Ramirez. On that day more than three decades ago, a classmate pushed him down in front of the rest of the class, and he found out what it was like to be bullied. That incident led Ramirez to withdraw and struggle in school. Eventually, a teacher helped him through that dark time, and he…

By Ball State Athletics— MUNCIE, IN—After two consecutive years at a record graduation success rate of 93 percent, Ball State University student-athletes broke their own program record with a 94 percent GSR in the six-year window ending in 2024-25. According to Wednesday’s report released by the NCAA, the 94 percent GSR reflects the sixth straight year that Ball State student-athletes have eclipsed a 90 percent rate and at least matched their program record. The announcement of the record-setting GSR follows…

Editor’s note: The Future Leaders of America series profiles high school seniors who display leadership qualities in their school and the community. The series is brought to you by Pridemark Construction. By Stacey A. Shannon— YORKTOWN, IN—When it comes to athletics, Yorktown High School senior Jabin Barnes is involved. He’s captain of both his school’s basketball and football teams. Previously he played baseball and was captain of the JV team. But his life is about more than sports. Barnes is…

By Lesley DeVoss— MUNCIE, IN — Ivy Tech Community College Muncie and Anderson Campuses proudly announce the early learning programs selected to participate in the Ivy Tech Model Classroom Initiative for the 2025–2026 academic year. Through a generous grant from Lilly Endowment Inc., the Model Classroom Initiative strengthens Indiana’s early childhood education workforce by connecting Ivy Tech students with high-quality, real-world learning environments. The selected classrooms represent excellence in early learning and a shared commitment to mentoring the next generation…

By Andy Klotz— MUNCIE, IN—High school is changing in Indiana. Students must now choose among three readiness seals – Enrollment, Employment or Enlistment & Service – and fulfill that seal’s requirements in order to graduate, beginning with the class of 2029. Many students are expected to focus on an Employment seal, which makes the Muncie Area Career Center (MACC) the perfect place to prepare them for life after school. On Thursday, November 6, prospective students can get a firsthand look…

By Juli Metzger— MUNCIE, IN—Embedded career coaches at Muncie Central High School, a new Freshman Academy and a 10 point jump in the graduation rate were among highlights at a recent gathering of community stakeholders focused on The Opportunity Blueprint: 2030, a five-year community-wide strategic plan. “The better we can make our school system, the better our community’s going to be as a whole,” said Eric Grim, assistant superintendent of Muncie Community Schools. “And we’ve been very fortunate with all…

By Ball State University Communications— MUNCIE, IN—Ball State University is welcoming award-winning author Christina Diaz Gonzalez to campus this Fall as the guest author for the University’s annual Writer-in-Residence program. Ms. Gonzalez is the author of the Edgar Award-winning mystery Concealed, the USA TODAY best-selling graphic novel Invisible, and the critically acclaimed historical fiction novel, The Red Umbrella. During Ms. Gonzalez’s week-long visit to the University—Nov. 3-6—she will speak to Ball State students in the classroom as well as participate in…

By Lesley DeVoss— MUNCIE, IN—Heart of Indiana United Way, in partnership with Ivy Tech Community College and with support from the Shafer Foundation, is celebrating the successful conclusion of the Road to Reading initiative, a summer program that brought free books and literacy resources directly to families across Muncie Promise Neighborhoods. Launched in May 2025, Road to Reading featured the Ivy Tech RV, fully stocked with books, that traveled to four neighborhood events. Families were invited to “shop” together for books, helping…