Alternative education continues thanks to strong partnership between Sheridan & Hamilton Heights communities
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Sheridan Community Schools and Hamilton Heights School Corporation have always been great partners, sharing a common goal of doing what is best for students. Under the leadership of the districts’ superintendents, Dr. Dave Mundy and Dr. Derek Arrowood, respectively, the two schools have again teamed up to secure the future of the Northern Hamilton County Academy (NHCA).
NHCA was created as an alternative education program for students who face academic, behavioral, or personal challenges that place them at risk of falling behind or leaving school altogether. Students from Sheridan, Hamilton Heights, and Westfield attend this alternative program, which provides a structured, supportive learning environment. At the academy, students do online coursework, get in-person instruction, job-readiness training, and mentorship. For a lot of students, the NHCA is a second chance to earn their diploma and remain connected to their respective high school.
Recently, changes in state funding eliminated designated financial support for alternative education programs. This dramatically reduced funding for NHCA and left the academy’s future up in the air. But thanks to the support of local businesses, families, foundations, and community leaders, NHCA’s funding has been secured.
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The NHCA has proven its success and service to students. Because of that, they have benefited from a unique matching opportunity through the Lilly Endowment, which is brought to students through the Hamilton County Community Foundation. That being said, the program has secured approximately $1 million in funding for the next several years. The funds will allow the NHCA to continue serving students in the individual districts of Hamilton Heights and Sheridan.
The impact of the NHCA is evident in its numbers. Last school year alone, 35 students were enrolled across the three districts, and those students earned a total of 207 academic credits. Ten of the 13 seniors met graduation requirements, and the remaining three are on track to graduate this year. The year before last also saw strong results. Eleven of the 12 seniors met graduation requirements, and nearly 190 credits were earned.
The proposal to the Hamilton County Community Foundation was made possible through the support and generosity of the following individuals, families, and organizations, who believe in the power of education and the second chance the academy provides. They include:
- Gary Reynolds
- Drayer Family
- Sonny & Glendia Beck and the Beck Foundation
- Godby Home Furnishings & the Godby Family
- Tracey Sheehan
- Gaylor Electric
- Biddle Foundation
- Duke Energy Foundation
Their support has secured the funding, reduced the barriers, and strengthened the already shared commitment of putting students first. The academy, now in its respective districts, is still changing lives and supporting students who need it most.
