The Center for High School Success is proud to announce our newest Demonstration School, George Washington High School in Indianapolis, Indiana. CHSS Demonstration Schools are chosen for their sustained improvement, consistently high 9th Grade On-Track Rates, and exemplary implementation of the CHSS Roadmap. Demonstration Schools partner with CHSS to showcase 9th Grade Success Work for our national network of high schools and to introduce the work to new schools and districts interested in engaging in 9th Grade Success Work.
Demonstration Schools partner with CHSS to showcase the exemplary 9th Grade Success Work to support deep learning for the current national network of high schools and to recruit new schools and districts to engage in 9th Grade Success Work.
George Washington High School is our first Demonstration School in the Midwest and our fifth in the country.
George Washington High School (GWHS), a comprehensive high school serving 800 students in Indianapolis Public Schools, has partnered with CHSS since 2020. Since partnering with CHSS, George Washington’s 9GOT Rates increased from 55% to 83% — a remarkable 51% increase!
CHSS 9th Grade Success Coach Rebecca Bancroft said, “The GWHS 9th Grade Team has shown a deep commitment to using data to guide their decision making and to provide supports for students that are tailored to their needs with great success.”
CHSS Executive Director, Kaaren Andrews, added “It’s inspiring to visit George Washington. The hard work they’ve done together over the past three years is evident and truly transformational.”
“We are proud that George Washington High School has been named a CHSS National Demonstration School,” said Dr. Aleesia Johnson, superintendent of Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS). “Through its partnership with the Center for High School Success, IPS has transformed the ninth-grade experience, improving academic achievement and attendance while driving success for our students. This recognition reflects the hard work and dedication of students, staff, and the community, making George Washington a national model.”

Meet George Washington High School in Indianapolis, Indiana
Principal Dr. Stanley Law shared more about GWHS.
Tell us a little about your school community.
At George Washington High School, we believe that diversity and opportunity inspire achievement. Our student body is vibrant, with 43% identifying as African American, 40% as Hispanic or Latino, 11% as white, 5% as multiracial, and 1% as Asian. With 51 certified teachers and 775 scholars, including 196 freshmen, our community is dedicated to fostering a rich learning environment. We offer three College and Career Options: Business/Finance, Information Technology, and Manufacturing and Engineering, and are excited to introduce an early college model with a community college whereby GWHS scholars will be able to earn an associate degree.
Tell us a little about your school’s history with 9th Grade Success Work?
In the 2020-2021 school year, we faced significant challenges due to COVID-19, resulting in only 55% of our freshmen needing to be on track for on-time graduation. However, through intentional efforts, we improved to 75% the following year, experienced a slight dip to 72% at the end of the 2022-2023 year, and achieved our best performance last year with an 85% on-track rate. GWHS FOT has led the district’s freshmen success among the other high schools for two consecutive years.
What are you most proud of?
What I’m most proud of with the Freshman On-Track initiative is our incredible team of resilient and unified teachers. They constantly seek innovative ways to support student success and show an unwavering commitment to our students’ growth. A true testament to their hard work and the progress our students are making was highlighted in a recent shout-out from CHSS, recognizing a remarkable 15% increase in On-Track Rates within just one year. This achievement reflects the dedication and collaboration that defines our school community.
What has been an obstacle you’ve been able to overcome?
This year, we faced the challenge of relocating classrooms and adjusting schedules due to an alternative program entering our building. Although our Freshman Academy is now more dispersed, we maintain effective communication as a team, ensuring that we continue to support our students.
Finish this sentence. “9th Grade On-Track Work/9th Grade Success Work has been transformational at our school…”
…because our freshman teachers have implemented strategies that focus on identifying and nurturing each student’s unique strengths, creating a supportive environment where students feel valued and capable. Within the framework of having a growth mindset, teachers provide specific, timely, and actionable feedback that highlights progress and effort, rather than just grades, reinforcing a sense of community, motivation, and belonging.
How has partnering with CHSS been transformative?
Partnering with CHSS has been transformative for freshmen at George Washington High School by providing a structured support system that helps students adapt to high school expectations, develop essential academic and social skills, and stay on track for on-time graduation. This partnership has fostered a positive school culture, emphasizing academic success, responsibility, and a sense of community among students and staff. The additional resources and guidance from CHSS have contributed to a more engaged and motivated freshman class, setting the tone for their high school journey and encouraging a culture of success throughout GWHS.
Anything else you’d like to share?
As the proud principal, I want to give a heartfelt shout-out to our incredible students and dedicated teachers at George Washington High School! Your hard work and determination have led to remarkable achievements, and we are thrilled to see so many students on track for graduation.
A special thank you to our devoted teachers, whose resilience and commitment to professional growth shine in everything they do. Your collaborative spirit and innovative strategies are making a meaningful impact on our students’ lives, fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment. Mr. Carter, our admin leader of FOT, truly values the hallway and parking lot discussions about new ways to meet student needs—your dedication to growth is inspiring. Together, we are building a brighter future! Make it a great day while making someone’s day great at GWHS, Where Diversity and Opportunity Inspire Achievement.