Freshman Academy

All incoming ninth graders are automatically enrolled in the Freshman Academy. There is nothing else to do after going through the registration process.

There are several differences, but the biggest distinctions of the Freshman Academy are the teaming concept that keeps groups of students with the same core teachers, stimulating deeper connections with each other and teachers; and the Freshman Seminar course that all students are required to take. This course will help students develop good study habits, social skills, extracurricular interests, presentation abilities and more. It will also create a culture of assistance so students won’t hesitate to reach out for academic, social or emotional support.

Because the teaming concept is at the heart of the success of this kind of program, we don’t expect a lot of movement between teams. However, teachers and administrators will be in regular communication about individual students throughout the year, so if it makes sense to move a student to a different team, it can take place at any point in the year.

There are enough examples nationally of these smaller learning communities having significant positive impact on ninth graders that we believe will translate well here in Muncie. In addition, with the new high school graduation requirements established by the state of Indiana beginning with the class of 2029, it makes perfect sense for us to launch the academy now.

No. All ninth graders will have access to the entire school and should actually get to know the facilities more quickly than normal because of the Freshman Seminar.

Sort of. Because the state requires students to have 42 credits (instead of 40) to graduate beginning in 2029, we expect all freshmen to finish their year with at least 10 credits as well as a choice on which type of diploma seal they would like to pursue – Enrollment, Employment or Enlistment. Each student will begin high school with one of those 42 credits by virtue of taking "Prep for College and Careers" in middle school.

Not a problem. Students can change their graduation path at any point during their high school career, and advisors will be available to assist them make the best decision for them.

Current Muncie Central sophomores, juniors and seniors will see little change as a result of the Freshman Academy. The biggest difference for them will be the ability to obtain one of the new diploma seals should they choose to do so, but that would be completely their choice.

Yes! This new approach to high school has proven to improve all-around academic performance, decrease student referrals and lower drop out rates. It is also more proactive in aligning students’ interests and aptitude with future education and career goals.