What is the Indiana Core 40 Scholars Initiative?
The Indiana Core 40 Scholars Initiative is an effort by school and area business volunteers to encourage students to complete challenging courses during high school that will prepare them for jobs and higher education after graduation.
The Indiana Core 40 Scholars Initiative is managed by Indiana’s Education Roundtable, working in partnership with leaders from the state’s business community, including the Indiana Chamber of Commerce in cooperation with local chambers of commerce and the Indiana Manufacturers Association.
Back to IndexWho are Indiana Core 40 Scholars?
Indiana Core 40 Scholars are students who have completed the Core 40 curriculum, a specific sequence of high school academic courses in English/language arts, math, science, and social studies that are endorsed by Indiana K-12, business, and higher education as the best preparation for success in college and the workforce. The Indiana Core 40 Scholars philosophy is based on the belief that it is better to pass an academically challenging course than to get a higher grade in an easier course.
Why become an Indiana Core 40 Scholar?
Core 40 gives students the foundation they need to succeed in a technical school, community college, university, the military, or industry. A person with a Core 40 background is a more attractive job candidate and more likely to complete training or education that leads to better jobs and better pay.
Graduating as an Indiana Core 40 Scholar means a student:
· acquires advanced academic skills
· develops sound decision making and critical thinking skills
· is prepared for college and reduces the likelihood of needing
costly remedial courses
· is a stronger candidate for certain types of financial aid and
scholarships
· has enhanced opportunities for job placement and future advancement
with local and international employers.
Employers, colleges, universities, and technical schools care about an applicant’s overall education, not just a grade-point average. They prefer people who have completed a demanding course study in high school. They value a “C” in a hard class more than an “A” in an easy one.
How do students become Indiana Core 40 Scholars?
In 8th grade, students commit to dedicating themselves to completing the Core 40 curriculum in high school. Local business and education partners will work together to develop incentives and academic supports to ensure students complete the Core 40 Scholars program.
What role do parents play in Indiana Core 40 Scholars?
A parent’s encouragement and support are essential in helping a student achieve his or her academic goals. In the 8th grade, each student will prepare a four-year career and course plan with the help of parents and school counselors. Parents should work with school counselors and teachers to help their children meet Core 40 course requirements. In this way, parents help ensure that students are prepared for the workforce or higher education upon graduation from high school.