INDIANAPOLIS — Monarca Academy is expanding its educational offerings with the launch of its first high school grade.
The tuition-free public charter school on Indianapolis’ west side welcomed ninth graders this school year, joining middle school students at the innovation network school. The expansion was made possible by a grant from Lilly Endowment Inc.
Monarca Academy draws inspiration from Latino culture and the immigrant experience. The school serves students in grades 6-9 and operates as an innovation network school in partnership with Indianapolis Public Schools.
“We’re building something special here,” said Lidia Vidal Sandate, founding high school director. “Our students see themselves in our values and in our mission.”
Monarca Academy is built around three foundational values: “ganas” (perseverance), “orgullo” (pride) and “comunidad” (community). The high school program adds two more values: “autonomía” (agency) and “resiliencia” (resilience).
“These values aren’t just words on a wall,” Sandate said. “They’re lived every day by our students and staff.”
Ninth grader Andy Josue Delcid is already participating in school activities, including athletics and helping with the school newsletter.
“The teachers and staff are very friendly and they support you in any way possible,” Delcid said. “I’ve been connected with the school for almost three years. I love it.”
Monarca Academy’s high school program emphasizes college and career readiness through community service requirements, Career and Technical Education pathways and work-based learning experiences.
The school also has partnered with a college professor to introduce students to design fundamentals, giving them hands-on experience that connects classroom lessons with potential career paths.
“We’re not just preparing students for college,” Sandate said. “We’re preparing them for life.”
The high school expansion gives families another public education option while allowing students to continue learning in a familiar environment.
“This means access to more high-quality public education,” Sandate said. “For our students, this is an opportunity to continue growing in an environment where they already have people that know them and care about them.”
How to learn more
Monarca Academy is located at 5525 W. 34th St. in Indianapolis.
Families interested in enrollment can visit monarcaacademy.org or contact the school for more information. Tours are available by appointment.
Community members also can support the school’s initiatives, including its student pantry program.
