Preparing our Students for Indiana’s Future: Class of 2026 Graduates Receive Their Diplomas

Author: Dr. Liz Sliger, Executive Director, Indiana Digital Learning School 

On May 29, 2026, we celebrated the day that more than 1,400 Hoosier seniors have been working toward all year: Graduation day. Indiana Digital Learning School (INDLS)’s seniors crossed the stage and turned the tassel on high school and took the next step in their educational journeys. 

INDLS graduates’ plans include enrolling in college and trade schools, heading into the workforce, and enlisting in our armed services. “One-size-fits-all” graduation standards don’t work for all students, and Indiana has made strides in moving from standardized graduation requirements to those that can help close the gap between high school and whatever comes next. 

What comes next is a unique challenge for some. Our students entering the workforce today are faced with both a below-average unemployment rate (3.3%), but a staggering 150,000+ job vacancies in critical fields. We can clearly see the need to establish a pipeline of talent to fill necessary positions – and it starts with meeting our students where they are.  

At INDLS, our virtual learning model allows us to reach a new demographic of students who may struggle in a traditional brick-and-mortar school and/or who are using the flexibility to pursue their passions outside the classroom. When we can reach these students, we are able to provide them access to opportunities like Career and Technical Education (CTE), Advanced Placement (AP), and Dual Credit courses regardless of where they are located in Indiana. 

Opportunities to prepare for the real world. 

CTE, AP, and Dual Credit courses are designed for students to explore career pathways, gain college experience, and build real-world skills before they graduate. CTE programs at INDLS, for example, are designed to help students explore high-demand industries while developing practical, workforce-ready skills. Students can discover what careers interest them while earning credentials that can be used after graduation. 

Meanwhile, AP and Dual Credit classes allow students to earn college credits while still in high school. They can experience the rigor of college-level courses while ultimately saving time and money – whether by gaining credits early or learning they may prefer a different path post-graduation. CTE, AP, and Dual Credit courses at INDLS give students flexibility, opportunity, and direction to explore what comes next. 

Access for all. 

Career pathway classes shouldn’t be tied to a student’s location, but that’s how they operate today. Many rural and underserved school districts may not have the resources to facilitate CTE, AP, or Dual Credit courses, which limits students’ exposure to post-grad opportunities. Online learning options like INDLS can help fill that gap and reach students around the state. What’s more, because of INDLS’s flexible and tailored learning pathways, courses can be created that directly teach the skills that Indiana companies need most. 

Are you looking for CTE, AP, and/or Dual Credit offerings for your student? Enroll today!  

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