The Tippecanoe School Corporation (TSC) will celebrate a significant milestone on May 29 when Tippecanoe Online Academy (TOA) holds its first-ever graduation ceremony. The event, hosted at the Greater Lafayette Career Academy, will honor the accomplishments of the academy’s inaugural class of nine graduates and highlight TSC’s commitment to providing innovative and flexible learning options.

TSC launched TOA in August 2024 as a fully accredited virtual high school offering students a new pathway to success—one that supports individual learning styles, schedules and life circumstances. More than 90 students enrolled in the first year of the program, many of whom balance coursework with part-time jobs and other responsibilities.

“As we prepare to celebrate the first graduating class of the Tippecanoe Online Academy, I find myself reflecting on just how far we’ve come in such a short time,” says Dr. Devin Arms, Director of Technology and Innovation. “What began as a vision to expand educational opportunities for students in our community has grown into a thriving learning environment that empowers students to learn in ways that best suit their needs and goals.”

This year’s graduates demonstrate the discipline it takes to thrive in an online setting. “These students took a chance on something new and embraced the challenge of online learning,” Arms says. “They managed their time, stayed engaged and built meaningful connections with their teachers and peers in ways that truly impressed me.”

Arms says one of the most rewarding parts of TOA’s growth has been the strong sense of community created among students and staff.

“One of the biggest misconceptions about online learning is that it’s isolating. But at TOA, our teachers have been intentional about building relationships and providing consistent support,” he says. “I’ve witnessed firsthand how these connections inspire students to persist, overcome challenges and reach this important milestone.”

Superintendent Dr. Scott Hanback commends the students for their resilience and focus.

“I’m proud of these graduates for their perseverance and determination to earn Indiana’s high school diploma,” Hanback says. “TOA provides another way for students to succeed, and this first graduating class shows the power of meeting students where they are and helping them reach their goals.”

School Board President Josh Loggins says TOA represents an important addition to the district’s offerings.

“We’re pleased to provide this diploma option for students through a fully accredited virtual high school within TSC,” Loggins says. “It’s exciting to see how TOA is meeting the needs of students who have chosen an online pathway. This is a meaningful and lasting investment in student success.”

The graduation ceremony will be held at 5 pm, May 29, at the Greater Lafayette Career Academy.