Whiteland, IN (April 21, 2026) — Whiteland Community High School (WCHS) has been recognized as an endorsed Early College High School by the Center of Excellence in Leadership of Learning (CELL) at the University of Indianapolis, joining a select group of schools across Indiana focused on expanding college access and student success.
The endorsement highlights WCHS’s commitment to helping students get a head start on college and career pathways. Through its Early College program, students have the opportunity to graduate with more than a high school diploma—earning the Indiana College Core, an associate degree, a technical credential, or significant dual credit while still in high school.
These opportunities not only accelerate students’ academic journeys but can also save families thousands of dollars in future college tuition costs. Across Indiana, students participating in Early College programs enroll in college at higher rates and are more likely to complete their degrees, demonstrating the long-term impact of this model.
“This endorsement is a significant milestone for Whiteland Community High School and reflects our commitment to expanding opportunities for every student,” said Principal Duke Lines. “This work is about more than earning college credit—it’s about building confidence, access, and a clear pathway to the future. Our students are developing the skills and mindset needed to succeed beyond high school.”
A key component of the program is the Indiana College Core (ICC), a block of 30 transferable college credit hours that satisfies most freshman-level requirements at Indiana public colleges and some private institutions. Since 2021, 230 WCHS students have graduated with the ICC, and the Class of 2026 is projected to add more than 100 additional students—saving families over $2 million in tuition costs.
Earning the Early College endorsement requires a rigorous, multi-year process. WCHS developed a comprehensive portfolio aligned to CELL’s eight core principles and participated in a detailed site visit where educators, students, and community partners shared insights into the program’s impact. This process ensures that endorsed schools are not only expanding access to college credit, but doing so with high quality and strong support systems in place.
With this recognition, WCHS joins 74 endorsed Early College High Schools across Indiana, reflecting a growing statewide effort to ensure all students have access to meaningful college and career opportunities.
Whiteland Community High School continues to focus on preparing students for success in an ever-changing world, emphasizing critical thinking, collaboration, and communication. Through strong partnerships with families and the community, WCHS remains committed to helping every student reach their full potential.