The Hamilton Southeastern (HSE) Schools have been dealing with growing pains ever since I moved to Fishers 34 years ago.  There was no room for people to transfer into our district from outside the boundaries.

The most recent demographic report shows the district will be losing some students in the next few years, a very different situation for the local school district.  As a result, the HSE School Board gave final approval Wednesday night to a new policy allowing a limited number of families residing outside the HSE District to apply for available slots in buildings with room for them.

There will be a process to determine whether the student meets minimum eligibility criteria and whether there is space available for that student.  If there are more qualified requests than space available, a lottery will be conducted.

“This is an important moment for Hamilton Southeastern Schools,” said Superintendent Patrick Mapes, in a school district news release. “By welcoming students from outside our district, we are able to expand access to the high-quality educational opportunities that define HSE while strengthening our ability to serve the greater community.”

With state support determined by the student head count, HSE says it is now in a position to accept students living outside the HSE boundaries.  HSE Schools currently has over 21,000 students, the third-largest in Indiana based on enrollment.

“Our district has always been guided by its mission to provide excellence in education and
opportunities for all students,” added Superintendent Mapes. “By extending enrollment, we are able to equip the next generation with the skills needed to achieve their goals and contribute positively to an ever-changing world.”

For more details on the program, use this link.  Families may begin filing requests online as of Friday, February 21.

A speaker during public comment was critical of the district in handling her child’s request for a transfer of schools within the HSE District.