University Schools
Burris Laboratory School
Dr. Robert Marra, Superintendent; Dr. Abigail Comber, Principal and Chairperson; Mrs. Brandi Hankins, Office Supervisor and Systems Administrator
Burris Laboratory School was established in 1929, as part of Teachers College, Ball State University. The school is named after Dr. Benjamin Burris, Dean of Teachers College, Ball State University at the time of the construction of the school.
Burris Laboratory School’s mission is to foster a culture of respect and trust where every student is challenged to pursue excellence by engaging in a well-rounded, technologically-enhanced, rigorous curriculum in a safe and secure environment. As a model school, engaged in best-practice research and the preparation of highly effective educators, we collaborate with community partners to prepare students for success in an ever-changing world.
The school enhances their students’ critical thinking, problem-solving and technological skills through design thinking and Project Lead the Way. Along with a strong focus on related arts and athletics, Burris students excel academically, physically, artistically, and musically in an inclusive, safe environment.
Indiana Academy for Science, Mathematics, and Humanities
D. Kavars, Executive Director
www.bsu.edu/academy
The Indiana Academy for Science, Mathematics, and Humanities is a residential school for three hundred of Indiana’s most academically gifted high school juniors and seniors. The Academy also has approximately 25 local students enrolled through the Academy’s non-residential program and approximately 15 international students. A rigorous curriculum is required for all students. The academic program gives students the opportunity to experience advanced elective courses from Academy’s curriculum as well as the university’s. Students can also pursue individualized research and experiential education opportunities. They are required to “give back” by earning service hours through work in both the Indiana Academy and the larger community.
The Indiana Academy also offers outreach programs that serve students and teachers outside of the Academy. Several advanced distance learning classes are offered for students in Indiana, the United States, and throughout the rest of the world. Each summer, under the auspices of the College Board, the Academy hosts an Advanced Placement Summer Institute for around 300 teachers studying to be Advanced Placement teachers. Throughout the school year and summer, the Academy offers Enrichment Programs and summer camps (both day and residential) for students from elementary through high school.