A Field Trip to the Capitol: INGDA Students Advocate for School Choice

On Feb. 10, Indiana Gateway Digital Academy (INGDA) students from across Indiana traveled to Indianapolis to raise awareness for the right for families to choose the K-12 education path that best fits their needs.

Our school leaders were proud to represent INGDA – alongside our students and families – at the Capitol Day event to highlight the positive impact of online learning. Students who attended showcased the unique flexibility of working from anywhere by completing their schoolwork in the Indiana State Library. During the event, students wrote and delivered letters to their local lawmakers to encourage them to support school choice policies, and families had the opportunity to tour the library and Statehouse.

Why School Choice?

School choice empowers families to seek out an educational environment right for their children by exploring diverse options beyond brick-and-mortar public schools. Creating access to options that combine flexibility with quality education is essential in meeting diverse learning needs.

When families have the power of choice, they can access individualized learning pathways that allow their students to thrive academically while also:

● Accessing a safer learning environment for their physical and emotional needs.

● Balancing commitments, such as professional athletics.

● Prioritizing family time without commuting to and from school each day.

● Preparing for college and careers with dual credit, accelerated coursework, and certification opportunities.

Ahead of upcoming statewide policy changes that may heighten attendance requirements, school choice makes these standards more attainable for students who need to complete schoolwork from home, while traveling, or outside of traditional schooling hours in some cases.

The Power of Advocacy

During the Capitol Day event, students shared their own stories and spoke to the importance of school choice. In their letters to legislators, the goal was to advocate for public funding to follow the student, regardless of the type of school they attend.

“The INGDA community recognizes that choosing the right education path empowers students to reach their full potential,” said Dr. Jamey Callane, INGDA Executive Director. “Each of our students has a unique story, illustrating why online school was the right fit for them. When they come together to speak to these experiences, they showcase the importance of school choice.”

Tuition-free, online public schools like INDGA help students thrive through an education experience tailored to each child’s needs and aspirations. Our team of dedicated, state-certified teachers helps students grow, succeed, and reach their goals.

Interested in exploring a new path for your student’s K-12 education? Learn more about what your student can expect in an online learning environment!