Early College helps more students enroll in college and earn credit before graduation
ANGOLA—Angola High School was recognized as an endorsed Early College High School by the Center of Excellence in Leadership of Learning (CELL) at the University of Indianapolis on April 6, 2026, joining a select network of schools across Indiana that help students get a head start on college and careers.
Through its Early College program, Angola High School gives students the opportunity to graduate with more than a high school diploma—earning the Indiana College Core, an associate degree, a technical credential, or significant dual credit while still in high school. These opportunities can save families thousands of dollars and accelerate students’ path to college and careers.
Early College High Schools are delivering measurable results across Indiana. Students who participate in Early College programs enroll in college at significantly higher rates than their peers and ultimately graduate from college at higher rates, demonstrating the model’s impact on both access and long-term success.
“This was truly a total team effort from our Early College team. We are excited to provide our students with the opportunity to be college-ready before they even step onto a college campus and to help set them up for success in their future.”
— Benny Clark, Early College Director
Unlike traditional high school pathways, Early College programs intentionally blend high school and college experiences—building a strong college-going culture while providing the academic and personal supports students need to succeed.
LOCAL IMPACT DATA JUST IN EARLY COLLEGE
Number of Indiana College Core (ICC) earners
Class of 2025 - 48 ICCs and 5 Associates in General Studies
Class of 2026 - 57 ICCs and 13 Associates in General Studies
Dual credits earned
2025 - 1,209 Total Credits Earned by Early College Students
2026 - 1,361 Total Credits To be Earned by Early College Students as of April 20th, 2026
Estimated tuition savings for Early College Students
2025 - $215,661.42
2026 - $242,775.18
Total Amount Saved through Early College $458,436.60
Partnerships with colleges or industry
Ivy Tech Community College and Trine University
SUCCESS HIGHLIGHTS:
One of the highlights of Angola High School’s Early College Program is the success of its students in achieving exceptional postsecondary opportunities. Rodrigo Flores, a first-generation college student in the Class of 2025, earned a full scholarship to Columbia University, demonstrating the impact of early college access and academic support. Continuing this tradition of excellence, Daniela Carmona, also a first-generation college student from the Class of 2026, will graduate with her Associate of General Studies degree while still in high school and plans to attend Ball State University.
Earning endorsement is the result of a rigorous, multi-year process. Angola High School developed a comprehensive portfolio aligned with CELL’s eight core principles of Early College High Schools and underwent a detailed site visit during which educators, students, and partners shared insights into the program’s impact. This process ensures that endorsed schools are not only expanding access to college credit but doing so with quality, consistency, and strong support systems in place.
As Indiana’s leader in Early College, CELL endorses Indiana’s Early College High Schools, ensuring a high bar for quality, consistency, and student success. Angola High School is now among the 74 high schools that have earned this distinction, reflecting a growing statewide commitment to expanding college access.
For more information about Early College High Schools and a list of endorsed schools, visit cell.uindy.edu/earlycollege.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Benny Clark, Director of Graduation Pathways
ABOUT ANGOLA HIGH SCHOOL
Angola High School (AHS) is a public high school in Angola, Indiana, serving approximately 740 students in grades 9-12. As part of the Metropolitan School District of Steuben County, the school is known for its strong community connection and commitment to "Empowering students with 21st Century Literacy Skills."
AHS offers a diverse range of academic and vocational pathways designed to prepare students for both college and career:
Early College & Dual Credit: The school offers an Early College program and numerous dual-credit opportunities through partnerships with ITCC and Trine.
Advanced Placement (AP): There are 9 AP courses available, with a notable focus on science and math.
Career Pathways: Extensive career and technical education (CTE) pathways and work-based learning enable students to develop specialized skills across various industries.
Fine Arts & Student Media: The school features a robust fine arts department, including an award-winning marching band and a student-led newspaper.
Angola High School maintains one of the highest graduation rates in its region, reflecting its focus on student retention and completion.
Notable Achievements
ISSMA Success: The Marching Hornets recently placed 7th at the Indiana State School Music Association (ISSMA) state competition, and many seniors regularly earn gold ratings in solo and ensemble performances.
Athletic Excellence: AHS is highly ranked in Indiana for athletics. Recent highlights include the girls’ gymnastics team finishing second in state, the football team winning sectionals, the boys' cross-country team reaching the state finals, and the new modern track, field, and football facilities.
Historic Honors: Historically, AHS has been recognized as an Indiana Four-Star School, an Indiana Blue Ribbon High School, and a National School-to-Work Site.
Scholarships: The 2026 graduating class includes recipients of prestigious awards, such as the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship.
ABOUT THE CENTER OF EXCELLENCE IN LEADERSHIP OF LEARNING (CELL) AT THE UNIVERSITY OF INDIANAPOLIS:
The Center of Excellence in Leadership of Learning (CELL) at the University of Indianapolis bridges the gap between research, policy, and practice by delivering innovative, evidence-based education solutions. CELL’s work empowers educators and improves student success in PK-12 and higher education, transforming lives through learning. Learn more: cell.uindy.edu.