INDIANA — More Indiana schools will have the opportunity to access advanced Cambridge programs thanks to a second round of government funding. Dr. Katie Jenner and the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) announced schools will soon have an opportunity to expand access to advanced math and science coursework through a second round of Cambridge Math and Science Grant funding designed to strengthen college, career, and military readiness for students across the state.
Public and private schools that are awarded funding will implement at least one Cambridge International Education (Cambridge) course with emphasis on math, science, or qualitative reasoning. With passing Cambridge scores, students can earn college credit and the opportunity to qualify for the Honors Enrollment Plus Seal through completion of the Cambridge AICE Diploma.
The Honors Enrollment Plus Seal guarantees automatic admission to all seven of Indiana’s public colleges and universities, including Ivy Tech, Indiana University, Purdue University, and Ball State University.
The new funding opportunity builds on the success of the first grant round, which supported schools implementing rigorous academic pathways focused on mathematics, science, critical thinking, and real-world problem solving. IDOE will invest up to $500,000 to support participating schools in implementing and expanding Cambridge programs and will provide a $2,495 bonus per public school student tied to student completion of the Cambridge AICE Diploma. The state also covers the cost of up to three Cambridge exams per student, reducing financial barriers for families and expanding access to advanced academic credentials.
“Indiana is expanding opportunities for schools to deliver the kind of rigorous, future-focused learning that prepares students for what comes next,” said Chairman Bob Behning, Indiana State Representative and Chair of the House Education Committee. “This second round of grants will help more schools create pathways that challenge students academically, strengthen problem-solving and communication skills, and better connect classroom learning to college, careers, and the needs of Indiana’s evolving economy.”
In February, the IDOE awarded six Indiana schools the Cambridge Math and Science Grant to introduce rigorous, skills-based Cambridge courses such as thinking skills, computer science, biology, and chemistry. Some schools are also exploring beyond STEM fields, offering English General Paper and English Literature as well.
“Don’t hesitate to look into it,” offered Dr. Jennifer Korkes, Director of Secondary Education, Vigo County School Corporation, who received a grant in the first round. “In today’s world of education, adding a Cambridge program can enhance what you’re already doing. I think Cambridge is a great opportunity to complement current offerings and provide even more opportunities for students.”
The grants support schools seeking to expand access to internationally benchmarked coursework that helps students build durable skills increasingly needed in higher education, technical fields, and today’s workforce. Schools may use the funding to support curriculum implementation, instructional resources, teacher training, and pathway development in advanced STEM-related subjects.
“Indiana continues to recognize the importance of giving students access to rigorous learning experiences that prepare them for success after graduation,” said Mark Cavone, Regional Director, North America for International Education at Cambridge University Press & Assessment. “We are thrilled to partner with Indiana to provide strong math and science pathways to help students build not only subject knowledge, but the problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills that are essential whether students pursue college, the military, technical training, or careers in high-demand industries.”
The grant window is open May 15 through July 17. Additional information regarding eligibility and application requirements for the second grant round will be made available to Indiana schools through the appropriate state and program channels. You can read more about the grant here: Cambridge Math and Science Grant.
