(January 16, 2025) – INDIANAPOLIS – Decatur Central High School and Decatur Township School for Excellence are excited to share that the Class of 2025 Graduation Rate is 97.48%, which ranks as the 3rd highest graduation rate of public school corporations in Marion County, and significantly exceeds the state average of 91.83%. We celebrate this achievement as the outcome of years of intentional, dedicated work by our students, educators, staff, and families throughout the MSD of Decatur Township.

This milestone is a testament to our collective commitment to ensuring every student is prepared for life beyond high school. “Graduation is not an isolated event that happens at the end of senior year, but the culmination of work we pursue together from preschool through grade 12,” said Dr. Scott Collins, Superintendent. “Every lesson taught, relationship built, intervention provided, classroom supported, bus route driven, meal served, and student encouraged contributes to this moment, reflecting the collective impact of each staff member who supported, guided, and taught our students.”

This accomplishment belongs to our entire Decatur Township community. Together, we will continue to foster a culture of high expectations, meaningful support, and shared responsibility that ensures every student has the opportunity to cross the graduation stage prepared and confident.

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About MSD Decatur Township

The MSD of Decatur Township is student invested, community connected. Decatur Township prioritizes student learning, safety and customer service, fostering a support system for our families. Located on the southwest side of Indianapolis, Decatur Township is proud to serve thousands of elementary, middle, and high school students and families. The district vision is Preparing Students to be Tomorrow Ready. Together, we are DECATUR PROUD! Learn more at www.decaturproud.org. 

MEDIA CONTACT:

Emily LeMay, Director of Student & Family Engagement 

elemay@decaturproud.org

317-856-5265

January is School Board Appreciation Month, and we are very grateful for our Decatur Township Board Members and their commitment to excellence.

At the first meeting of 2026, the School Board completed the annual re-organization:

• Dale Henson will serve as President and Education Foundation Advisory Member.
• Chase Lyday is the new Vice President, and will also serve as Legislative Liaison.
• Judith Collins will serve as Secretary and represent on the SSSMC Advisory Board.
• Larry Taylor is the President of Finance.
• Estella Vandeventer (former President) continues her service as a Member.

We extend our sincere thanks to the members of the Board of Education for their steadfast service and dedication to our schools and community. Their leadership, time, and commitment make a lasting difference for our students and families.

Decatur Central is celebrating school spirit the week of January 20-23 with a "Snowcoming" celebration.

The Boys and Girls Basketball Teams will take on Greenwood at Decatur Central High School, Friday, January 23:

Freshmen Boys: 5 pm

Varsity Girls/JV Boys: 6 pm

Varsity Boys/JV Girls: 7:30 pm

The Decatur Township Scholarship Association is hosting their annual Chili Supper and Silent Auction in the DCHS Gym Lobby from 5-8 pm on 1/23. Enjoy great food to support DCHS student scholarships!

Let's show that Hawk Spirit next week! All Decatur Township Schools will participate in the spirit days listed below:

"The Hawks are Frosted and Fearless!"

Monday 1/19- No School, MLK Jr. Day

Tuesday 1/20- "Frozen Fit Check" Jerseys

Wednesday 1/21- "Warm Up Day" Cozy clothing

Thursday 1/22- "Frost the Nest" White-Out

Friday 1/23- "Fear the Hawks" Blue and Gold