Before 2024, students at Whiteland High School in Indiana had two options for advanced coursework: Advanced Placement (AP) and dual credit classes. However, school officials recognized a growing need to support non-English speaking students, who make up about 14% of the student body, speaking 64 different languages. They decided to introduce a new curriculum backed by the University of Cambridge in 2024.
Cassandra Shipp, the assistant superintendent, pointed out that the essay-based assessments in Cambridge courses allow students to show their knowledge while they improve their English skills. “We don’t want to limit our bright students,” she explained. “They need to be competitive on a global scale.”
To help expand this curriculum, Indiana has set aside $500,000 in grants aimed at getting more schools to offer Cambridge STEM courses. The goal is to create an additional pathway for students to earn advanced diplomas that could guarantee college admission. Recently, six schools, including Whiteland, received funding to introduce courses in subjects like Computer Science and Chemistry. This funding isn’t a one-time deal; the state is opening up additional funding for up to 16 more schools to join this initiative.
What Are Cambridge Courses?
Cambridge offers academic programs from the University of Cambridge in England through its nonprofit, Cambridge International Exams. Although less common than AP or International Baccalaureate classes in the U.S., Cambridge courses are available in about 160 countries and across two dozen states.
These courses are somewhat similar to both IB and AP programs. They start in elementary school and go through high school, offering flexibility with standalone courses. Passing a Cambridge A-level course indicates a student is prepared for college-level work, a point highlighted by Mark Cavone, a director at Cambridge University Press. Features like Global English—designed as an accessible form of English—make these courses a good fit for multilingual students.
Using Cambridge Courses
Indiana students can now aim for the Cambridge Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE) diploma. This diploma is part of the state’s new high school graduation requirements, which can earn students an Honors Enrollment Seal. This seal guarantees admission to any public university in Indiana. Other ways to earn this seal include obtaining an AP Scholar or associate degree. Schools benefit too, receiving a $2,495 bonus for each student who qualifies.
Cavone noted that Indiana’s education policies are well-suited for Cambridge’s expansion. Currently, these courses are primarily found in traditional public high schools, with some also available at charter and private schools. The initial round of grant funding supported a mix of schools, including:
- Whiteland Community High School
- North Central High School
- Terre Haute South Vigo High School
- East Chicago Central High School
- GEO Next Generation Academy
- Al-Haqq Foundation Academy
The addition of Cambridge courses is seen as an exciting opportunity to enrich academic options for students in Indiana, especially for those who might not thrive in traditional programs. As the education landscape evolves, such initiatives highlight the importance of finding pathways that accommodate diverse student needs.
This shift aligns with wider educational trends; according to a recent survey by the National Center for Education Statistics, dual enrollment and advanced courses are gaining popularity across the U.S., indicating a push towards more varied educational opportunities.
For more information on Cambridge courses and Indiana’s education initiatives, check out resources like the National Center for Education Statistics and the Indiana Department of Education.
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