Students in Perry Township Schools will have a life-changing educational experience, thanks to a multi-million dollar grant.  The district has received a grant of  $7,877,000 from Lilly Endowment Inc. through its Marion County K-12 Public Schools Initiative. This is one of 43 implementation grants being awarded through phase 2 of the initiative, which is designed to help strengthen the academic achievement of students in Indianapolis and improve their prospects for success after high school.

 The grant will allow Perry Township Schools to further its mission of enabling ALL students to achieve at high levels by enhancing the educational experience in effort to increase post-secondary success. With the support of the grant, the district’s goal is to further shape our K-12 programming with a focus on career exploration, hands-on learning and experiences that both inform children of the possibilities and inspire their dreams. In partnership with the University of Indianapolis, high school students will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in college life on U Indy’s campus while learning directly from professionals in their chosen fields.

“On behalf of Perry Township Schools, I am immensely grateful for the generosity of Lilly Endowment,” said Melissa Morris, Director of Grants and Strategic Partnerships. “This nearly eight-million-dollar investment will not only enrich our K–12 programming, but will also be life-changing for countless students through an intentional focus on career connected learning. Thanks to this grant, students will gain early and ongoing exposure to career opportunities they may have never imagined. We’re excited to begin this transformational journey alongside our educators and students—and even more excited to witness the bright futures this grant will help create.”

Over the next several years, Perry Township Schools will fully implement a K–12 career-connected program integrated into the core curriculum. In addition, Lilly Endowment has invited the district to apply for Phase 3 of the Marion County K–12 Public Schools Initiative. If awarded, this opportunity would provide up to $40 million in funding—resources that would support students in unprecedented ways.

Lilly Endowment Inc. is an Indianapolis-based private foundation created in 1937 by J.K. Lilly, Sr. and his sons Eli and J.K. Jr. through gifts of stock in their pharmaceutical business, Eli Lilly and Company. Although the gifts of stock remain a financial bedrock of the Endowment, it is a separate entity from the company, with a distinct governing board, staff and location. In keeping with the founders’ wishes, the Endowment supports the causes of community development, education and religion. The Endowment funds programs throughout the United States, especially in the field of religion, and maintains a special commitment to its founders’ hometown, Indianapolis, and home state, Indiana.