Tag: westfieldindiana

Students of the Month – February 2021

Posted on by optionscharterschool

Congrats to our February Students of the Month!

This group is off to a great start to 2021 & a new semester!  Scroll down to read our Q&A with each program’s Student of the Month selection.

February 2021 Students of the Month:

  • Ella (Options Carmel)
  • Angela (Options Indiana)
  • Mireille (Options with ABA)
  • Mya (Options Noblesville)
  • Breasia (Options Indiana)

Ella
Options-Carmel

Grade: 10th

“Ella is a remarkable student–she demonstrates resiliency and a drive for success, both for herself and for others, even when things are difficult. This particular school year has been challenging in ways that previous school years have not been, and Ella has risen to the occasion of working above and beyond her course load to meet her academic and personal goals. Additionally, she has consistently done so with kindness, gratitude, and respect toward others. I’m grateful to know her!” – Bethany Stewart (Options Carmel teacher) 

How long have you been attending Options?
I started here at the beginning of this school year (August 2020)

What has your Options experience been like?
It is amazing, I love it more than my last school. There are just more opportunities at this school.

Why do you think you were selected for Student of the Month?
I’m not sure, but I know I’m a hard worker when it comes to school.

Do you have any hobbies, passions or ways you enjoy spending your free time?
I like hanging out with my friends a lot.

What have you enjoyed most about the Options experience?
I would say the teachers because they are really nice & understanding about things.

What is your favorite subject in school?
Math because I’m really good at it and I kind of always have been.

Have you improved in any areas since starting at Options?
Definitely academics & my attendance. I never used to go to school because bigger schools were always overwhelming for me, but since I’ve been here, I’ve been a lot better about that.

Do you have any current plans or aspirations for after you graduate?
I want to go to trade school to become a Veterinary Technician. Being here made me realize that I have a lot of opportunities, so I didn’t think much about it before this year.

Angela
Options Indiana

Grade: 11th

“Angela has overcome so many obstacles in the past few months and is so kind and thoughtful. She has made school a priority and has excelled in her courses this semester. She reaches out for help when she needs it and tries her very best. We are so lucky to have Angela as part of our Options family.” – Whitney Holmes (Angela’s advisor) 

What is your hometown/Where are you located in Indiana?
I currently live in Zionsville.

When did you enroll at Options?
I enrolled at Options at the beginning of March 2020.

Do you have any hobbies, passions or ways you enjoy spending your free time?
I like to watch the office, swim, help people, and I enjoy learning about politics!

What is your favorite thing about going to Options? Please explain
My favorite thing about going to Options is that the teachers are easy to talk to and help me understand topics that I find challenging.

What is your favorite subject in school? Why?
My favorite subject in school is Biology because I find it interesting and somewhat easy.

Have you improved in any areas since enrolling at Options? Please explain
I think I have improved in communication skills ever since I started Options.

Do you have any current plans or aspirations for after you graduate? What are they?
After I graduate high school I want to go to college and become a nurse or physical therapist!

Mireille
Options with ABA

Grade: 7th 

Mireille is an amazing student. Whether it’s tracking down the fearsome Indominus rex, writing a professional lab report on volcano experimentation, or providing words of encouragement for her peers, Mireille is always impressing me in class with her creativity, hard work and kindness.” – Sarah Danks (Options @ BACA teacher)

How long have you been enrolled in Options with ABA?
Since after Thanksgiving Break of 2020

Do you have any hobbies, passions or ways you enjoy spending your free time?
Black belt at Geist Martial Arts. Writing in Arabic in class.

What is your favorite thing about attending Options with ABA?
The way Mrs. Sarah Danks supports the class and teaches. Also Mrs. Elizabeth.

What is your favorite subject in school? Why?
Science or math, it’s a hard choice for real. They work together.

Have you improved in any areas since enrolling at Options?
I have improved my math skills and my writing skills have improved greatly!

Do you have any current plans or aspirations for after you graduate?
Probably in lawn care service or an animal training specialist.

Mya
Options-Noblesville

Grade: 6th

“Mya has been working hard to get all of her work done, and to stay caught up in her classes. Whenever she has free time in class, Mya volunteers to help the other students that are struggling with their work. She always comes to class prepared, and with a great attitude!” – Ashley Jennings (Mya’s advisor) 

What have you enjoyed most about the Options experience?
I like it here and the people are all nice.

Do you have any hobbies, passions or ways you enjoy spending your free time?
I like to draw

What is your favorite subject in school?
I like math. It is easier for me.

Have you improved in any areas since starting at Options?
I’ve definitely become better at typing.

Do you have any current plans or aspirations for after you graduate?
I think I want to go to a musical or performing arts school.

Breasia
Options Indiana

Grade: 10th

“Breasia has been a model student! She communicates with her teachers in a timely and respectful manner and is pleasant to work with.  She finished two credits during February and is well on her way to finishing her next course.  Breasia takes great notes using her tutorials and uses guided notes as needed.  Keep up the great work Breasia!”
— Emily Swanson (Breasia’s advisor)

What is your hometown/Where are you located in Indiana?
My hometown is Fort Wayne

When did you enroll at Options?
I started at Options in 2018

Do you have any hobbies, passions or ways you enjoy spending your free time?
I enjoy doing hair & nails, and love doing it in my free time.

What is your favorite thing about going to Options? Please explain
Teachers have an understanding, and we can work at our own pace.

Have you improved in any areas since enrolling at Options? Please explain
All of my credits are from Options. I feel like the tutorials helped me understand a lot of things.

Do you have any current plans or aspirations for after you graduate? What are they?
I either want to own my own salon or get into the medical field as an anesthesiologist.

 

EXPLORE OPTIONS!
Serving students in grades 6-12, Options Schools are free, public charter schools with two brick-and-mortar campuses in Hamilton County. Options also offers additional campus, hybrid & online programs that serve students throughout the state of Indiana (serving over 129 school corporations). With a high-quality, individualized approach, Options was founded in 2002 and specializes in providing students with an inclusive environment and a student-to-teacher ratio of 15-to-1.

 

 

March-ing right along (Dunagan’s Blog)

Posted on by optionscharterschool

The outside of the building is changing drastically with the brick being almost finished on one side of the building and just starting on the other.  It should be done by the end of next week.  The building front has a few nice lines of dark brick that adds a nice accent to the building.  The snow is gone and the warmer weather is really helping things move along.  The parking area is currently a bit of a muddy mess, but that is expected in construction.  It sure is better than the bitter cold and ice that the crews were facing just last week.

The inside has seen the most changes over the last two weeks. The insulation is in and the drywall is going up.  Once the building is closed to the outside elements the mudding process will begin allowing the drywall to be finished. The glass for the main entry will arrive soon and then the building will be closed from the outside elements.  The teacher workroom that is just off to the side is ready for the drywall mud and then will await built-in cabinets and a large work counter. Once complete it will be a great space for staff to work alongside each other and prepare for the day.

The gym area is currently filled with all the ductwork that will go up to heat and cool the building.  It is a large space, so you can imagine how much ductwork is needed to cover the entire building.  It will be the last area to get drywall, but it will happen by the end of the week.  The space will have built-in cabinets to store PE equipment and a moveable curtain so we can section off the basketball area while eating lunch. In the near future, it will be ready to host back school events and summer open gym.  The back patio area is currently a muddy mess but it too will take shape in the near future. On a day like today in 2022, we will be excited to sit outside and enjoy the warmer weather that we are lucky to have this week.

You can see in the picture that Jenny’s office is taking shape and soon she will be able to greet visitors from her window to the main entry hall.  She will have so much space to support our students, families, and staff.  She will also have a second window that will open up to the lobby area where she can interact with students throughout the day. The rest of the office area is waiting for the final pieces of drywall to be hung.  The electrical work is underway and will soon be tucked into their electrical boxes for light switches and outlets.

The Senior Institute classroom is missing the ceiling and it is also close to being finished.  This is the largest classroom space and I am looking forward to what it will look like with desks and student work areas.  Future seniors will plan and prepare their senior projects in this space in less than a year.  It will also be a great space for classes to work when not in use for seniors.  The rest of the classrooms in the high school side of the building are finished with drywall. In the picture below you can see Gretchen’s English classroom.  The room looks so much bigger with the walls up.

The middle school classes were getting the last sheets hung as we walked by the team hard at work. The electrician will be coming behind them to finish all the outlets.  With the drywall up you can really see the different levels of ceiling throughout the building.  The changes in ceiling heights help define different spaces like the student commons from the hallways.  Soon we will have 6th-8th grade students mingling before getting started for their classes, or working in small groups on projects.

The space looks really different from just two weeks ago but we still have a lot more to be ready for summer school in just three months.

We’re excited to host a number of really fun events from June until August at Options Westfield & I’ll share the schedule in a blog once it’s finalized. I’ll also be giving campus tours throughout the summer, so please email me if you’d like to schedule one.

Overview rendering of entire Options-Westfield campus building

EXPLORE OPTIONS!
Serving students in grades 6-12, Options Schools are free, public charter schools with two brick-and-mortar campuses in Hamilton County. Options also offers additional campus, hybrid & online programs that serve students throughout the state of Indiana (serving over 129 school corporations). With a high-quality, individualized approach, Options was founded in 2002 and specializes in providing students with an inclusive environment and a student-to-teacher ratio of 15-to-1.

 

Dunagan’s Blog: Options Westfield is growing before our eyes…

Posted on by optionscharterschool

Options Westfield campus opens June 2021

If you have ever had an opportunity to build a home, you know how exciting AND stressful the process can be.  You get to customize your home to fit your needs.  That of course means making lots of decisions, from the exterior trim color to the wiring and location of outlets in each room.  The Options team has been dreaming of this new campus for many years, and we are months away from being finished with our new home in Westfield!  Our team has been working with architects, designers, and builders to make that dream come true.

This past week, we took several staff members from Options Carmel on a tour of the new Westfield building.  The building is really starting to take shape.  Most of the windows are installed and the framing for the interior walls is up.  You can really start to see where the classrooms and offices will be.  In the next few weeks, the drywall will go up. The outside of the building is also coming along.  The brickwork has started, and the roof is almost complete.  It is really starting to look like a school!  Standing in front of the building brings chills knowing we will soon be teaching students in the building this summer for summer school.

On the tour, we saw the high school and middle school wings.  Each will have their own section of the building classrooms, restrooms, and common areas.  The common areas will have flex seating where students can gather or for a small group to work together.  While they were on the tour, staff stopped at their future classrooms and offices to take a picture.  You could feel the excitement in the cold air. Every classroom has large windows that fill the space with natural light. 

In Gretchen’s English class, she has a large window that weighs over 600 pounds and took 10 people to install. In JD’s science classroom, you can see the gas lines run in the walls for future lab stations.  The middle school is no different.  They have large classrooms with large windows. Steve stopped in his future middle school classroom to grab a picture from the front of the room. Each classroom will have new student and teacher desks and chairs.  Tables are designed to be moveable so that teachers and students can adjust the seating to meet the needs of the particular lesson. They can be pushed together to make groups or spread out for testing.  No detail has been missed.  It is so exciting to start to picture it all.  Steve was already thinking of how he wants to decorate his classroom to start the year. One last essential area that was added to the building was a teacher workroom.  Teachers will now have a space where they can meet to work and prep for the day.

The office area is similar to the classrooms.  The entire entry area will be filled with windows that overlook a small courtyard.  In our new building, the main entrance is easy to find with its long covered walkway.  As we walked the administrative offices, we saw the large space that will serve as a resource area for staff and students to work.  The resource area will be filled with flex seating and small workstations.  It will be a great quiet space for students to work. As we made our way back to the front, we stopped to see the different offices and the conference room.  On the tour, Jenny stopped and stood in her giant office area where she will greet students and visitors each morning. (It would take three people holding hands to touch wall to wall!) She will be able to look out her window into the lobby and see the wall of windows bringing in all that natural light. 

Westfield will also have a large cafe/gym area with an attached weight room.  The space will have two-story ceilings and open onto a large outdoor patio.  Since I know many students have wondered, there will be a basketball goal as well.  We are very excited about the flexibility the space offers to host lunch, gym class, large group activities, or a space for classes to spread out for a project.  The patio will allow for teachers to host class outside.

The Westfield campus will hold many more exciting opportunities for our students and staff!  Once we are able to move in this summer, we hope you will join us for some of the many community events we will be hosting. If you would like a campus tour, I welcome you to email me at mdunagan@optionsined.org!

— Dunagan —

 

EXPLORE OPTIONS!
Construction on the Options Westfield campus will be completed in May 2021, with the campus to open for summer classes on Monday, June 7. Stay tuned to our Facebook page for information on campus events this summer!

Serving students in grades 6-12, Options Schools are free, public charter schools with two brick and mortar campuses in Hamilton County. Options also offers additional programs that serve students throughout the state of Indiana (serving over 129 school corporations). With a high-quality, individualized approach, Options was founded in 2002 and specializes in providing students with an inclusive environment and a student-to-teacher ratio of 15-to-1.

 

Scroll down for additional photos of Options Westfield’s progress from February 8!

 

 

 

Students of the Month – Nov. 2020

Posted on by optionscharterschool

Congrats to our November Students of the Month for the 2020-21 school year! Scroll down to read our Q&A with each program’s Student of the Month selection.

November Options Student of the Month

November 2020 Students of the Month:

  • Gwen R. (Options-Carmel)
  • Vincent C. (Options with ABA)
  • Aiden B. (Options Indiana)
  • Felicia Y. (Options Indiana)
  • Sterling W. (Options @ HYCA)
  • Richard A. (Options @ HYCA)

Gwen R.
Options-Carmel

Grade: 12th 

When did you enroll at Options?
Since the beginning of this school year in August

Do you have any hobbies, passions or ways you enjoy spending your free time?
I enjoy music, cooking & running. Over the Thanksgiving break, I did three different races in a row – I ran a 4K, 5K and 6K with just 30 minutes in-between each, so I’m still recovering from it.

What have you enjoyed most about the Options experience?
All of the teachers are nice & I am really able to focus a lot better than at my old school. I also felt really welcome from when I first started here.

What is your favorite subject in school?
I like science & English.

Have you improved in any areas since starting at Options?
Definitely my academics. I used to have a lot of distractions & wasn’t able to focus, but with the structure here, I don’t feel such a burden with everything.

Do you have any current plans or aspirations for after you graduate?
I have thought about going into the Navy before I attend college, possibly something in the culinary field. My mom & dad were both in the Navy and I think that it can help me grow.

Vincent C.
Options @ BACA

Grade: 11th

How long have you been enrolled at BACA and/or Options @ BACA?
This is my second year in the Options @ BACA program.

Do you have any hobbies, passions or ways you enjoy spending your free time?
Spending time on my iPad, playing games and going on walks.

What is your favorite thing about attending Options @ BACA?
Friends and learning in a small group.

What is your favorite subject in school? Why?
Subjects that use technology and reading.

Have you improved in any areas since enrolling at Options?
Flexibility with my day & schedule.

Do you have any current plans or aspirations for after you graduate?
Undetermined

Aiden B.
Options Indiana

Grade: 10th

What is your hometown/Where are you located in Indiana?
I live in Fishers, Indiana & I was born in Marion, Illinois.

Do you have any hobbies, passions or ways you enjoy spending your free time?
I enjoy spending my free time with friends or playing video games.

What is your favorite thing about going to Options?
My favorite thing about Options is that I can work at my own pace.

What is your favorite subject in school?
My favorite subject in school is science.

Have you improved in any areas since enrolling at Options?
I improved in getting my work done on time.

Do you have any current plans or aspirations for after you graduate?
I plan on enlisting in the Army after I graduate.

Felicia Y.
Options Indiana

Grade: 12

What is your hometown/Where are you located in Indiana?
My hometown is Culver, Indiana and it’s where I’m still currently living/

Do you have any hobbies, passions or ways you enjoy spending your free time?
I don’t get much free time being the mom to a beautiful eight-year-old, but I enjoy movies & games with my family when I have time.

What is your favorite thing about going to Options?
My favorite thing about Options is the flexible hours that work for me being a busy mom with a very busy schedule.

What is your favorite subject in school?
My favorite subject in school is math.

Have you improved in any areas since enrolling at Options?
I would say I improved in a lot of areas, more than I ever thought was possible when I started at Options.

Do you have any current plans or aspirations for after you graduate?
Yes, I do want to get a degree in the field of IT (Information Technology). I really love to fix computer issues or phone issues and work with any tech items.

Sterling W.
Options @ HYCA

Grade: 12

What is your hometown?
Westfield, IN

Do you have any hobbies, passions or ways you enjoy spending your free time?
I was able to graduate early by being in Options @ HYCA and I’ve already been accepted into Ivy Tech so I’m now pursuing a major in Chemistry. Outside of school, I like to spend a lot of time with my family — playing games, building puzzles & reading too.

What has your HYCA experience been like?
This whole experience has really just helped me learn how to take a deep breath. I know not to get frantic or let things get to me… I just need to stop worrying and take a second. I didn’t handle stress well previously and I would just struggle with remembering things, but this has helped change that.

How has Options @ HYCA been beneficial to you?
I was working towards a certain high school diploma track in Technical Honors at my previous school and I have been able to continue that path with Options while I’ve been at HYCA.

What is your favorite subject in school?
A tie between science & math. Science is really intriguing to me & math kind of comes easy to me.

Do you have any current plans or aspirations for after you graduate?
I want to focus on finishing the Ivy Tech program I’m in now and following that with a nice-paying job & family eventually. My goal is to just keep moving forward.

Richard A.
Options @ HYCA

Grade: 11th

What is your hometown?
I was born & raised in Martinsville, Indiana

Do you have any hobbies, passions or ways you enjoy spending your free time?
I enjoy riding ATV four-wheelers, dirt bikes & just living a little. I like working on stuff and working with my hands, so I enjoy any type of building work or fixing anything that’s broken. I try to make my own car the best as possible because I enjoy working on that too.

What has your HYCA experience been like?
At first, I didn’t think coming here was a good idea, but it has just been so good for me. Honestly, I didn’t know if I would make it far because the acclimation phase is the toughest part of getting familiar. It’s definitely been a journey, but I’m glad I made it this far and I’m glad I chose to come here. Being here has really changed my life. 

How has Options @ HYCA been beneficial to you?
I am really glad I enrolled in Options because I wanted to have my high school diploma and graduate, instead of just getting a GED. I’ve learned a lot about respect and how it can get you a long way. Same thing with integrity, it’s about doing the right thing for yourself no matter who is around. I’ve really just learned that the small things in life matter a lot.

What is your favorite subject in school?
Probably science. There’s so much to learn and so much that relates to the world around us.

Do you have any current plans or aspirations for after you graduate?
I’ve been thinking a lot about joining the military to attending a trade school for culinary or construction. I’ve looked into apprenticeship jobs also, so I’m seeing what is out there and have an idea of which way I want to go.

 

 

About Options Schools
Serving students in grades 6-12, Options Schools are free, public charter schools with brick and mortar campuses in Carmel and Noblesville & a new campus opening in Westfield in August 2021. Options also offers additional programs that serve students throughout the state of Indiana (serving over 90 school corporations). With a high-quality, individualized approach, Options was founded in 2002 and specializes in providing students with an inclusive environment and a student-to-teacher ratio of 15-to-1.

 

 

Students of the Month – Sept. 2020

Posted on by optionscharterschool

Congrats to our September Students of the Month for the 2020-21 school year! Scroll down to read our Q&A with each program’s Student of the Month selection.

September 2020 Options Students of the Month

Sept. 2020 Students of the Month:

  • James G. (Options-Carmel)
  • Alex F. (Options @ Growing Minds)
  • Brayleigh B. (Options-Noblesville)
  • Quentin K. (Options @ BACA)
  • Ty Z. (Options @ HYCA)
  • Terez S. (Options Indiana)

James G.
Options-Carmel

Grade: 6th 

How has the first month of the school year been for you?
It’s been pretty good; I like it here. I like my classmates, teachers & classes.

Do you have any hobbies, passions or ways you enjoy spending your free time?
I play video games and spend time with my family. I like playing Call of Duty and Warzone the most, but a bunch of games overall.

What have you enjoyed most about the Options experience?
The people just seem to be nicer & the school is just better overall. It’s nice to have a small class. My two sisters used to go here too, so that’s how my family knew about Options.

What is your favorite subject in school?
I enjoy Math most

Have you improved in any areas since starting at Options?
I think I’ve definitely got better at Math.

Do you have any current plans or aspirations for after you graduate?
I think it would be cool to be a professional gamer.

Alex F.
Options @ Growing Minds

Grade: 10th 

Do you attend Growing Minds in Columbia City or Fort Wayne?
I attend in Fort Wayne and I started during the second semester of the 2019-20 school year.

Do you have any hobbies, passions or ways you enjoy spending your free time?
I really like playing basketball and baseball. My favorite spot to play each is center in basketball & outfield in baseball.

What is your favorite thing about Options @ Growing Minds?
I think it’s the fact that it’s like a family atmosphere each day and not like a regular school where a lot of people might feel like strangers. It’s easy to be honest and open with the teachers because they want the best for you.

What is your favorite subject in school? Why?
I enjoy Career Skills because it covers a little bit of everything and its stuff we need to know.

Have you improved in any areas since starting at Growing Minds?
At my other school, I didn’t get any work done because I would just want to sleep. After talking with some of the teachers, I am more motivated with my future. I’ve been working really hard every day and that didn’t use to be me.

Do you have any current plans or aspirations for after you graduate?
I think I want to attend trade school & become a welder. I like making things and I know I can make some good money doing it.

Brayleigh B.
Options-Noblesville

Grade: 6th

Do you have any hobbies, passions or ways you enjoy spending your free time?
I enjoy practicing origami and making things. I learned through videos & books. I usually like making origami balloons. I like playing outside. 

What have you enjoyed most about the Options experience?
It’s been good, I’ve liked basically everything about it. The teachers in the middle school are awesome. It’s a really fun school with really good teachers and I’m glad to be here.

What is your favorite subject in school?
I like Advising most because I enjoy Kimberly as a teacher so it’s nice having additional time to talk about things.

Do you have any current plans or aspirations for after you graduate?
I have a lot of things I want to do, maybe become a baker.

Quentin K.
Options @ BACA

Grade: 10th

How long have you been enrolled at BACA and/or Options @ BACA?
August 2020

Do you have any hobbies, passions or ways you enjoy spending your free time?
I like jumping on the trampoline, watching television & hanging out with my friends.

What is your favorite thing about attending Options @ BACA?
I enjoy my classmates and the teachers

What is your favorite subject in school? Why?
Science

Have you improved in any areas since enrolling in Options @ BACA?
I’m getting better at reading and socializing.

Do you have any current plans or aspirations for after you graduate?
Unknown

Ty Z.
Options @ HYCA

Grade:  11th 

What is your hometown?
I’m from Chandler, IN, but since it’s a small town I just say Evansville because people know it more that way.

What has your HYCA experience been like?
It’s been pretty good. The first two weeks were rough, but eventually you get used to the routine and what’s going on. The start is like bootcamp because you are learning how things need to be done. After a week or so, you start to make friends and things just get simpler.

Do you have any hobbies, passions or ways you enjoy spending your free time?
I played soccer for many years growing up and into high school. We have a couple hours of free time here after the school day ends, so I read a lot. I’ve already ready eight or nine books in the nine weeks that I’ve been at HYCA. I really enjoy dystopian literature.

What have you enjoyed most about the HYCA experience?
I got here not knowing what I was going to learn, but now being nine weeks in, I realize I need to do something with my life after I graduate, whether it’s school or a career so I can make something of myself.

Have you improved in any areas since starting Options @ HYCA?
With Options, I can work at my own pace & I realize I know a lot more than I think. Having help from teachers is nice too. If you put your mind to it and you want to be successful, it’s amazing what you can accomplish in classes and earning credits. I also have realized I didn’t have a great mindset before coming here and now I’m on track.

Do you have any current plans or aspirations for after you graduate?
I’m not 100% sure what I’m going to do just yet, but I know I’m going to make sure I get my high school diploma first. After that, I will see what will be next, maybe going into the military.

Terez S.
Options Indiana

Grade: 12

What is your hometown?
I live in Highland, IN, which is considered “the region”

How have the first few weeks of the school year been for you?
I actually love this school and have had a great start to my year.  I’m looking forward to my graduation in December.

Do you have any hobbies, passions or ways you enjoy spending your free time?
I am a busy mom of a three-year-old and a newborn. Most of my free time, when I’m not working to finish my classes, is spent raising and taking care of them.

What do you enjoy most about being an Options Indiana student?

I love the teachers and I love communicating with them. They are so easy to talk to and always get right back with me when I need something.

Do you have a favorite subject in school?
I really like science.

Have you improved in any areas since enrolling at Options?
I have improved in all of my subject areas but mostly I have found and improved on my motivation to finish school. 

Do you have any current plans or aspirations for after you graduate?
After I graduate in December, I would like to go to school and work on my Cosmetology License.

 

 

Passion, creativity & integrity: meet Dr. Silverman

Posted on by optionscharterschool

Following the departure of the Director of Curriculum and Instruction in the fall of 2019, Options Schools was left with an opening in a major role. The search for a new Director of Curriculum and Instruction began immediately and the result was the addition of Dr. Anita Silverman in December 2019.

A native of central Indiana and graduate of North Central High School, Silverman made an immediate impact with her demeanor and approach to the position. The source? A winding journey that provided a wealth of experience and knowledge along the way.

A first-generation college student, Silverman started her secondary education at Ball State University, with the goal of becoming a teacher.

Required to take a speech & hearing test in order to proceed in BSU’s teaching program, a speech impediment prevented Silverman from passing the test and with the Disabilities Act of 1990 not yet in place, Silverman was forced with a choice: forfeit her dreams of working in education or leave the state of Indiana.

“All I had ever wanted to be was a teacher, I wanted to be just like my elementary school Principal,” said Silverman. “I just picked Ohio State because it was out of state and it was random. I didn’t understand the concept or cost of out of state student fees, I just wanted to go somewhere because I couldn’t teach in Indiana. It ended up being the best decision I ever made.”

After her time at Ohio State, Silverman learned of an opportunity that would assist in paying her student loans if she spent time teaching in an urban environment. She selected Chicago, packed up a U-haul & off she went. Silverman’s next stop was Thornwood High School, her first experience in alternative education and working with at-risk youth.

“I was on the south side of Chicago and early on I experienced my first student death, via gang violence,” Silverman said. “After experiencing the funeral, I learned a lot about things I previously knew nothing about and it taught me that I needed to learn about the students. Not many teachers take the time to learn about their students, and we have to take time to do that. That was a big lesson for me at age 23 and ever since, I’ve been really involved in making sure teachers understand what our kids live, not just what they learn.”

After a five-year span in Chicago, teaching courses that included Family and Consumer Science & Graduation Reality and Dual Role Skills (GRADS), Silverman was ready to return to Indiana. As her family grew with the addition of two children, Silverman wanted them to be closer to their grandparents.

With courses including Home Economics & Family and Consumer Science having been cut in certain areas, Silverman felt the need to build on her resume and went back to school to earn her Master’s Degree in School Leadership. Silverman’s career then led her to Indianapolis Public Schools, where she served in a myriad of roles, including Dean of Students and Principal at one of IPS’ first alternative schools in 1999, where she realized alternative education was where she fit. Much of Silverman’s time was spent working at schools where “something needed to be done, whether it was an increase in test scores or motivation, that was kind of my niche.”

That very “niche” has helped Silverman thrive in previous roles, but also makes her a major asset for Options Schools and the students it serves. She also brings a student-first perspective that meshes well with the mission of Options.

“We have to respect students for being who they are…I can’t ask them to become part of my world and I can’t be a part of their world, we have to be in our world together, and I think that is really important because we have to create our community,” Silverman said. “I think we often make the mistake in forgetting that the younger generation knows how to think, so we have to respect their processes & their mindset. It is our job as educators to introduce us to the world, not to try to change their upbringing.”

The experience Silverman carries with her also comes from her dissertation, as she earned her EdD from Ball State University in Educational Leadership. Silverman completed her dissertation on the Cultural Competency of Teachers, and despite potential drawbacks to her dissertation topic, Silverman carried on.

“I was told that there wasn’t much research out there (on the Cultural Competency of Teachers) or that it wasn’t valid, or people don’t care, but now it’s so important to discuss race, and respect, understanding, and that was about 14 years ago,” Silverman said. “I was always told it was going to be a difficult topic and people may not be interested in that topic, but it has been and continues to be an important issue.”

With Silverman’s passion rooted in alternative education, she has used a creative mindset to present Options students with new experiences.

“I’ve always been really crafty and learning needs to be engaging for our students & shouldn’t be something that bores them,” Silverman said. “Not all students can learn sitting at desks in rows. I like to stay current with technology, and I like to still be involved with kids to see what I can do to connect with them and how I can help teachers to connect with them. I use drums because I know it can help with emotional regulation and kids are so dysregulated with everything going on in the world right now.”

Certified by Remo Drums in Healthy Rhythm Drumming Coordination, Silverman discovered the new-found passion in August 2019 and has since used it as a beneficial tool in the classroom, while improving her own drumming skills in her free time.

Along with the importance of education, Silverman also puts a lot of value in honesty and integrity.

“I think the best thing we can teach kids is integrity and model that for kids,” Silverman said. “Integrity has always been a big thing for me. It is the one thing you can’t ever get back, once you give someone your integrity, you can’t get that back. Even if you apologize after lying to someone, for example, you can’t just fix it and it’s the same with your integrity. I need to know that when I go to sleep at night, I was always myself.”

Silverman has loved the ability Options has provided her, to work with multiple schools and have full team involvement, working towards a common goal. Silverman shared that she is looking forward to strengthening and improving the sustainability of dual-credit program partnerships with Ivy Tech, J. Everett Light Career Center and others.

With the students always in mind, Silverman provided an “old phrase” that she believes speaks volumes in a school setting and serves as a reminder for all educators.

“They don’t care how much you know, until they know how much you care”

 

About Options Schools
Serving students in grades 6-12, Options Schools are free, public charter schools with brick and mortar campuses in Carmel and Noblesville & a new campus opening in Westfield in August 2021. Options also offers additional programs that serve students throughout the state of Indiana (serving over 90 school corporations). With a high-quality, individualized approach, Options was founded in 2002 and specializes in providing students with an inclusive environment and a student-to-teacher ratio of 15-to-1.

 

 

Q&A with Melanie, Principal of Options-Noblesville

Posted on by optionscharterschool

With the 2020-21 school year underway, we caught up with Melanie Martin-Terrell to see how things have been in her new role as Principal of Options-Noblesville. Martin-Terrell has served in numerous roles during her tenure with Options Schools, most recently as Counselor at Options-Carmel.

How have your first few weeks been serving as Principal of Options-Noblesville?
My first few weeks as Principal of Options-Noblesville have been quite enlightening. I have been well received and met some wonderful families and gotten to know staff members and reconnect with former colleagues. I am learning how to navigate the enrollment process and investigate all the changes to the building. My days are full and productive.

What are your thoughts as you begin a new school year in this role?
Wow! What a time to take on new responsibilities. I welcome all challenges placed before me. I hope to focus on the school motto of Belong, Believe, Achieve. Our students need to feel accepted, safe, supported, encouraged and educated, and in that sequence. Relationships matter. Students are the number one priority of any school environment and we must see from their viewpoint. While some may disagree with this concept, this is what has been effective at Options.

You’ve been with Options for over a decade. What’s it been like to see the growth and evolution of Options Schools?
I am one out of a handful of staff members that have had the pleasure of working at both school campuses, in Carmel and Noblesville. Structurally, the buildings are completely different, but relationally, everything is the same. There are fantastic staff members at both campuses and we all have great rapport within our buildings and now amongst one another, as we are enhancing curriculum standards and providing synchronous instruction. I really believe I have come full circle and that is what makes my journey particularly interesting. I definitely hope to stay connected with all of the students I have worked with. I believe in their ability to succeed and our staff is equipped to assist them along the way.

What is it about Options Schools that has appealed to you for over a decade?
Options has a unique school environment that gives a place for students who need something different. Students can be who they are while developing the skills necessary to become productive citizens. To be able to build positive relationships with students is a major part of our motto. If you don’t feel like you belong, how are you able to be successful and feel at home? Once they belong, they can believe that they are capable and able to then achieve and accomplish goals as they move forward in life.

As you take on this role as Principal, is there anyone you want to acknowledge or thank?
My parents have definitely laid the foundational work as prime examples of excellent educators. They each had 40 plus years in the field of education. With that, I have ingrained and embraced working with youth. I thank the Options executive team for extending their confidence in me to lead the Noblesville campus. My family has supported me throughout all of my academic endeavors and I greatly appreciate their sacrifices and encouragement

Is there anything else you want to share or say?
Let us F.L.O.A.T. through this year and be Flexible, Level-headed, Outstanding, Adaptable, & Triumphant!

 

 

About Options Schools
Serving students in grades 6-12, Options Schools are free, public charter schools with brick and mortar campuses in Carmel and Noblesville & a new campus opening in Westfield in August 2021. Options also offers additional programs that serve students throughout the state of Indiana (serving over 90 school corporations). With a high-quality, individualized approach, Options was founded in 2002 and specializes in providing students with an inclusive environment and a student-to-teacher ratio of 15-to-1.

 

 

The Current features Options on Westfield cover

Posted on by optionscharterschool

The following article was featured as the cover story in the August 4, 2020 edition of The Current in Westfield. The full Aug. 4 publication of The Current can be found here.

Another way to learn: Alternative learning provides avenues for struggling students

By Anna Skinner

Options Charter School CEO Mike Gustin doesn’t advocate a one-size-fits-all approach to alternative learning.

“Alternative programming is like any other consumer item you would go out and purchase and try to access,” he said. “There’s options and choices, and what we do in Indiana is, there’s a difference in Indiana coding between an alternative school and an alternative program.

“They serve uniquely different purposes within the alternative spectrum of student.”

Although Westfield Washington Schools is refining a new alternative program, Gustin said there’s still a need for Options, and vice versa. Options Charter School broke ground on its Westfield campus last month at the northwest quadrant of Gunther Boulevard and Ind. 32.

“So within alternative programming, and we are aware Westfield Washington Schools is ramping up some alternative programming, is they focus their programming on one or two types of students, but they don’t provide programming across the bandwidth of alternative learning that might suite the needs of all alternative kids facing challenges,” Gustin said.

Gustin said Options Charter School works with local superintendents about ways to keep students enrolled in the district.

“If (students) have something in their school like a co-curricular or extracurricular activity, or if the student has a positive adult relationship, that is a hook for that kid to stay in school and perform well, even though they may temporarily be going through some difficult times,” Gustin said. “That student should stay in school and attend that programming if it’s designed to meet their need.

“We step into the void when things are absent, when the student doesn’t feel connected to school or the community or has no real connection to the people or programming there.”

If a student is connected with their district through clubs, relationships or sports, they generally see success within the alternative programming, whereas when those connections aren’t present, the student can feel disconnected in the district and may be better suited for something like Options.

“To me, the biggest difference really is that when a student is a Westfield student, there are so many different resources we have available in the entire district,” WWS Supt. Sherry Grate Said. “The whole idea is that we are trying to create the best academic experience we can for students and provide a wrap-around, so if a student can stay and we can provide all of those resources to help them be successful, then that’s a huge success.

“Options is a great partner for us. It’s finding out what’s the best fit for each student, and the more we can keep our students in the Westfield school system by meeting their needs, the better off they are.”

Connor Reiff completes his Options Charter School assignments at home during the COVID-19 pandemic. (Submitted photo)

An Options Charter School example

Noblesville resident Connor Reiff benefits from Options Charter School education because the alternative learning school is flexible when it comes to Reiff’s medical needs.

“I have to travel to Stanford (University) for treatment and Southern California for clinical trials to help with my sleep disorders, and (Options) continues to be accommodating over the three years I’ve been there,” said Reiff, 16. “Those three chronic illnesses have kind of affected everybody in my family, and Options accommodated my sister, who sometimes had to fly with us out to Stanford.” 

 

 

About Options Schools
Serving students in grades 6-12, Options Schools are free, public charter schools with brick and mortar campuses in Carmel and Noblesville & a new campus opening in Westfield in August 2021. Options also offers additional programs that serve students throughout the state of Indiana (serving over 90 school corporations). With a high-quality, individualized approach, Options was founded in 2002 and specializes in providing students with an inclusive environment and a student-to-teacher ratio of 15-to-1.

 

Small Groundbreaking Ceremony held for Options-Westfield

Posted on by optionscharterschool

On Tuesday, July 28, a small ceremony was held to mark the groundbreaking of the Options-Westfield campus. In attendance were select members of the Options Executive Team, Options Founders, Options School Board, SA Berg Company, Axis Architecture and the City of Westfield.

One of three speakers at the event, Options President/CEO Dr. Mike Gustin spoke passionately about the project and shared the following words. “A new building for Options Schools has been a part of our plan since 2014. It’s not just a building, it’s trust that the parents know we will give their kids the very best & trust from the kids in the faculty. This project is all about fulfilling a promise of trust & hope.“

About Options Schools
Serving students in grades 6-12, Options Schools are free, public charter schools with brick and mortar campuses in Carmel and Noblesville & a new campus opening in Westfield in August 2021. Options also offers additional programs that serve students throughout the state of Indiana (serving over 90 school corporations). With a high-quality, individualized approach, Options was founded in 2002 and specializes in providing students with an inclusive environment and a student-to-teacher ratio of 15-to-1.

 

 

A Letter to Options Families (June Update)

Posted on by optionscharterschool

The following email was distributed to parents/guardians, students & additional members of the Options family the week of June 15, 2020

Options Families –

We hope this email finds you and your families well and enjoying some of this beautiful summer weather we are having in Indiana! It was such a strange and emotional ending to the school year, but we are all working on getting the necessary rest and relaxation to be ready for a new school year come August. We hope your students are as well.

As you know, COVID-19 school re-entry guidance plans from the CDC, County Health Departments, and the Indiana Department of Education are very fluid right now.  As of today, we are planning to open on time, August 5, 2020, for all programs in-person and virtual.  Student and staff safety are being considered to the highest level as well as the need for everyone to return to some normalcy in their educational platform in order to further develop the strong relationships that make up the backbone of the Options’ educational platform of Belong. Believe. Achieve.  Our teams are taking into consideration the academic and social-emotional needs of our students as we prepare the curriculum for the fall as well.  We are working to provide even smaller group settings than in the traditional model and limit cross exposure yet still allow students the opportunity to return to in-person classes with virtual options for families that need them. The many factors associated with starting school are being discussed and will be shared with families as soon as decisions have been finalized.

We know you may have specific questions about safety precautions we’ll be taking and what the school day will look like. We’re currently drafting a comprehensive return-to-school plan with input from the various regulatory agencies and will have it ready to share with you mid-July.

We know this is an unprecedented time and the Options family feels very fortunate to have strong in-person and virtual programming as well as small class sizes, evening programs, special-focused programs, and the most amazing team of teachers, counselors, and administrators working to serve our families in unique and specific ways.  Even before the pandemic, Options has made it our mission to serve every student and every family with strong educational programs that meet their needs exactly where they are and are able to adapt as the student’s needs adapt. We will continue to provide flexible programming as we all navigate our way to the new normal.

As always, word of mouth is our number one way of sharing with others about our programs. Below is a list of open programs for August 20/21. More information is available on our website. All programs have open seats at the moment, but are filling quickly.

For more information, visit OptionsSchools.org

  • Options Carmel – daytime and evening programming available grades 6-12
  • Options Noblesville – daytime and evening programming available grades 6-12
  • Options Indiana – virtual programming only, grades 6-12
  • Options @ BACA – located on-site at BACA of Fishers, serves students in grades 6-12 who need part-day ABA therapy and part-day school
  • Options @ HYCA – located on-site at the Hoosier Youth ChalleNGe Academy in Knightstown, IN, serves grades 9-12 who are seeking high school credits/graduation and are participating in the HYCA 22-week program
  • Options @ Growing Minds – located on-site at the Growing Minds campuses in Ft. Wayne, IN and Columbia City, IN, serves grades 6-12 in need of therapeutic support alongside education

 

About Options Schools
Serving students in grades 6-12, Options Schools are free, public charter schools with brick and mortar campuses in Carmel and Noblesville & a new campus opening in Westfield in August 2021. Options also offers additional programs that serve students throughout the state of Indiana (serving over 90 school corporations). With a high-quality, individualized approach, Options was founded in 2002 and specializes in providing students with an inclusive environment and a student-to-teacher ratio of 15-to-1.

 

2020 Options Commencement Ceremony

Posted on by optionscharterschool

This video is a celebration & recognition of the Options Schools Class of 2020! This Commencement Ceremony was streamed on Facebook Live on Wednesday, May 27, 2020.

As a send-off to the Class of 2020, the Options Team shared in there reading of ‘Oh The Places You’ll Go’ by Dr. Seuss.

About Options Schools
Serving students in grades 6-12, Options Schools are free, public charter schools with brick and mortar campuses in Carmel and Noblesville & a new campus opening in Westfield in August 2021. Options also offers additional programs that serve students throughout the state of Indiana (serving over 90 school corporations). With a high-quality, individualized approach, Options was founded in 2002 and specializes in providing students with an inclusive environment and a student-to-teacher ratio of 15-to-1.

 

 

April 14 Update For Student & Parents

Posted on by optionscharterschool

Parents and Students,

We hope this letter finds you and your families well as we all continue to Hunker-Down in Indiana and do our part to fight off the pandemic of COVID-19.  On April 2nd, Dr. McCormick, the Indiana State Superintendent of Education, announced that schools will not be allowed to return back to the physical buildings for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year. Prior to spring break, we shared our plan for instructional days following spring break and that plan has not changed with this announcement.  An explanation of the plan is also included in this letter as well as some additional details for graduating seniors.  

We returned to eLearning, Monday, April 13, 2020 with all courses now set up in such a way that students may complete at their own pace with the goal of completing all currently assigned courses by May 1.  Students enrolled in the Options-Distance Education, Options @ HYCA and Options @ BACA programs will continue to complete courses according to their individual pacing plans. We are hopeful this will excite students and encourage focused work with the reward of an early summer break!  Teachers will continue to provide direct instruction through videos, virtual office hours, Google Hangout and Zoom meetings, and by appointment for individual virtual help.  

Dr. McCormick also announced on April 2nd that all graduating seniors will receive acknowledgment in all spring courses in which they are already enrolled to ensure they are able to meet graduation requirements.  Please note, “acknowledgment” is not the same as credit. In order for seniors to earn the transcripted credit in the courses, they must still complete the content and earn a passing grade. We are encouraging all seniors, along with all students, to push forward with their courses and work to complete all coursework on May 1, 2020. 

Beginning May 4, 2020, through May 27, 2020, Options will run a 4-week credit recovery session for all students that need extended time past the May 1st deadline or that are credit deficient and would like to enroll in an additional course or two.  Advisors and counselors will help students choose appropriate courses and will direct students to fill out this sign-up form.  Sign up forms are not necessary for Options-Distance Education and Options @ BACA students.  In addition, we will still offer summer school, online-only, June 1, 2020, through June 26, 2020.  Students will need to fill out the form for each 4-week term with the courses they wish to take. 

Dr. McCormick’s announcement does require us to also change how we celebrate together through our spring events such as the spring picnic, prom, and graduation.  Our leadership teams will continue to work together to develop alternative plans and will share more information as we have it ready to share. We are very proud of our students and their continued resiliency!   

Thank you, again, to each of you for being part of the Options’ family and trusting us to provide your children a sense of belonging in our schools, a belief in themselves, and encouragement to achieve their highest potential. We do not take that gift lightly. Also, our sincere thanks to all the dedicated people at all of the County and State Health Departments, the local and state officials, and to our staff at Options Schools who have been working tirelessly to prepare and plan for our students and families. 

Point of Contact by Program:

 

Quick Guide Calendar

March 30 – April 10 — Spring Break – No School

April 13 – May 1 — eLearning (Courses now At-Your-Own Pace)

May 1 — End of Semester 2

May 4 – May 27 — Credit Recovery Session 1 (Maymester)
Sign-up Form

June 1 – June 26 — Credit Recovery Session 2 (Summer School)
Sign-up Form

August 5 — First Day for Students, Fall 2020

 

About Options Schools
Serving students in grades 6-12, Options Schools are free, public charter schools with brick and mortar campuses in Carmel and Noblesville & a new campus opening in Westfield in August 2021. Options also offers additional programs that serve students throughout the state of Indiana (serving over 90 school corporations). With a high-quality, individualized approach, Options was founded in 2002 and specializes in providing students with an inclusive environment and a student-to-teacher ratio of 15-to-1.

 

Options & Hamilton County Resources

Posted on by optionscharterschool

As the latest news and information continues to be shared at OptionsSchools.org and Options’ Facebook Page, this page features answers to a couple of questions, along with resources for Options and Hamilton County families.

What is the current school schedule?

An update was provided on Monday, March 23, which included an updated schedule for Options students following Spring Break (March 30-April 10).

Social-Emotional, Mental Health & Other Support

Extended eLearning can be a stressful time for students, parents and staff members. Options Schools counselors, teachers, and other team members are committed to staying connected and will be available to provide social-emotional and basic needs support during this time. Email addresses for the entire Options team can be found here.

Cathy Cooley and Kristi Turner of Hamilton Professional Counseling are both available to provide students with the support they need. Cathy and Kristi can be contacted via email at cathycooley6@gmail.com & Kristi@HamiltonProfessionalCounseling.com.

Counselor Availability

Options Carmel – Melanie Terrell
Monday-Friday (9 AM-3 PM)
Office Cell: 317-660-5327
mterrell@optionsined.org

Options Noblesville – Toshie Kagosawa
Monday-Friday (9 AM-2 PM)
tkagosawa@optiosnined.org

Options Distance Education – Carrie Bennett
cbennett@optionsined.org

Options Distance Education – Adelina DeLagrange
adelagrange@optionsined.org

Options Distance Education-Angela Holmes
Monday-Friday (8 AM-4:30 PM)
aholmes@optionsined.org

Options Distance Education-Michael Rentfrow
Monday-Friday (12:30-3:30 PM)
mrentfrow@optionsined.org

 

Food Assistance

We appreciate the support from all of our incredible donors who have helped us provide food to local families during this time because without them this would not be possible.

Options will not be holding a drive-thru for food pick-up the week of April 6th. Food can still be picked up or delivered, but by appointment only. Appointments can be scheduled by contacting Adam Barr via email at abarr@optionsined.org.

You can also go to the website pantrynet.org and type in your zip code to find your closest pantry.

Here are some resources for our Options and Hamilton County families while we are out of school:

White River Christian Church Food Pantry (Drive-thru)
1685 North 10th Street
Noblesville, IN 46060
Hours: Thursday, 1-6 PM

Grace Church Care Center (Drive-thru)
5504 146th Street
Noblesville, IN 46062
317-848-2722
Hours: Monday (6-7 PM), Tuesday (6-7 PM) and Wednesday (10 AM-11 PM)

St. Vincent De Paul (Drive-thru)
1391 Greenfield Ave.
Noblesville, IN 46060
317-773-7608
Hours: Wednesday (9 AM-1:45 PM and 6:30-8 PM) and Saturday (9-11:45 AM)

All you need is an ID showing you are a Hamilton County resident, such as a driver’s license.

 

 

 

 

Aimee Gonzalez featured in March issue of Westfield Magazine

Posted on by Options Schools

A freshman at Options-Carmel, Aimee Gonzalez was featured in the “Student Spotlight” piece for the May issue of Westfield Magazine. She was the Options-Carmel Student of the Month for March.

The full article can be read at the link below:

Options is hosting a pair of Open Houses in June and will also host a Summer School program that is also open to non-Options students.

Applications are also being accepted for those looking to enroll for the 2019-20 school year.

 

Options to relocate Carmel campus to Westfield

Posted on by Options Schools

via The Current in Westfield // by Anna Skinner

By fall of 2021, Options Charter School plans to serve more students by moving its current Carmel campus, 530 West Carmel Dr., to the northwest quadrant of Ind. 32 and Gunther Boulevard in Westfield.

Options is an alternative school for students who don’t perform as well in a traditional school setting. Many of Options’ students require a smaller setting due to high anxiety or a social-emotional issue.

Gustin

Options recently joined the Hamilton Boone Madison Special Services Cooperative and began developing partnerships with traditional public schools in the area.

“We started having conversations with Noblesville, Sheridan, Hamilton Heights and, a little later, Westfield, on how we can better partner with them because they’re losing students who aren’t thriving in their environments,” Options President and CEO Mike Gustin said. “So, how can we help identify those students and, for some of those students, we would be a good fit.”

Public school districts will transfer students who would be better suited for Options, and several districts actually provide transportation for those students to either the Noblesville or Carmel Options campuses.

“They bus students who would have attended Sheridan schools to Options Noblesville,” Options COO Michelle Walden said. “They realize it’s a benefit to the family to make sure they get to school.”

Walden

“For that reason, our board decided because of the strong partnership with Sheridan and Westfield, our board decided to move (the Carmel campus) a little further north (to Westfield),” Gustin said.

The move will not only provide a campus closer to those students residing in Sheridan and Westfield, but it also will help accomplish the goal of switching leases to mortgages.

The land and construction of Options Westfield will cost approximately $3 to $3.5 million. The square footage be approximately 15,000 square feet versus 13,000 square feet at Options Carmel. Another benefit is the new Westfield campus will be a one-story building.

Options Westfield plans to offer grades sixth, seventh and eighth at the Westfield campus.

“Currently, our middle school has a waiting list at Noblesville, and we prefer not to have a waiting list because we feel students on a waiting list means students not being served,” Walden said.

The move could happen as early as fall 2020.

Board of Directors Approve Westfield Land Purchase

Posted on by Options Schools
PDF Release

For Immediate Release

January 15, 2019

NOBLESVILLE – Last night, the Options Charter School Board of Directors took a historic step by a fulfilling a promise that was seven years in the making. By voting unanimously to purchase land in the Westfield area for a future campus location that will serve grades 6-12, Options is moving towards a more stable and secure future.

The opportunity to purchase land provides the organization with the ability to shift from leasing its facilities to owning, therefore cementing Options even further in the landscape of Hamilton County and the Indiana education system.

“I am so thankful to all of our board members for everything they do for Options on a daily basis and everyone in the Options family is excited about last night’s news,” said Options President Mike Gustin. “Since we were founded in 2002, there are many people that helped put us on the path to success that we are on now. This is another step in the right direction as we continue to work towards our goal of providing high-quality, alternative education to more students across Indiana.”