exposure, hands-on learning, early college access, and deep community partnerships, the district has built a model that aligns seamlessly with Indiana’s newest diploma pathway, while staying true to a mission grounded in equity, access, and studentcentered purpose. Superintendent Tom Hunter, a Greensburg graduate himself, captures that mission simply: to provide every opportunity possible for every kid. That clarity guides every decision—in curriculum, staffing, facilities, innovation, and community engagement. “Our whole mission is providing opportunities so every student can decide their path,” Hunter says. “Whether it’s the workforce, a two- or four-year college, or the military, we want them exposed to enough experiences to make informed, confident choices. That starts in junior high and continues through high school.” It is a philosophy that has grown stronger over time, not weaker. And as Indiana transitions to its new diploma model for the Class of 2029, Greensburg finds itself ahead of the curve, not scrambling to adjust. A DISTRICT COMMITTED TO SHAPING FUTURES, NOT ASSIGNING THEM Hunter, now in his 26th year with the district—and a product of it—speaks often about opportunity as both responsibility and promise. He does not believe in telling a kindergartener what they should become at eighteen. Instead, he sees the K–12 journey as a curated exposure to meaningful experiences, empowering students to discover their strengths through STEM, trades, advanced academics, CTE, and early work-based learning. This approach has earned Greensburg multiple Project Lead the Way Distinguished School recognitions and certification as an Early College High School, reflecting both rigor and real-world relevance. Perhaps more importantly, it embodies the district’s belief that a student’s background—not even Hunter’s own less advantaged family origin—should never determine their trajectory. “When students leave us,” he says, “I want them prepared to be the best in whatever career they choose. Whether they’re becoming welders, teachers, doctors, or technicians, they need a foundation strong enough to carry them into the next stage.” INNOVATION THROUGH VIRTUAL AND HYBRID LEARNING Although the pandemic sparked a national shift toward virtual learning, Hunter is candid: COVID did 285 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 07, ISSUE 01 GREENSBURG COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
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