Indiana Early College Summit 2026

When difficulty feels isolating, unclear, or high-risk, the brain protects itself. However, when rigor is sequenced thoughtfully and grounded in trust, students rise.

This session reframes what it means to ask students to do hard things. Through concrete instructional moves, we will explore how intentional sequencing builds trust, creates confidence, and develops stamina without lowering expectations. By the end of our time together, participants will know how to help students solve challenges that may initially appear impossible using a framework for designing how they will embrace hard things and thrive.

The Beyond Rigor publication responds to a critical blind spot in state policy: dual enrollment has become a major statewide strategy without being intentionally designed or governed as one. This interactive presentation will take a comprehensive approach to this complex challenge through a three-part structure that connects analysis to policy design and statewide implementation.

Through the IDOE Cambridge Math & Science Grant, Indiana high schools can apply by July 17 for up to $25,000 to launch or expand high-quality Cambridge math and science courses in the 2026–27 or 2027–28 school years. This session will highlight how six Indiana high schools are using Cambridge courses to strengthen college and career readiness, improve student outcomes, and broaden advanced learning in STEM. Attendees will also learn how the grant can support implementation through funding for teacher professional development, instructional resources, and student exam fees.