Education Entrepreneurs bring innovative ideas to public education

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - An Indianapolis-based organization, whose mission is to dramatically improve public education for underserved students, was recognized today by the Indiana State Board of Education and Superintendent of Public Instruction Dr. Tony Bennett. During the board’s monthly meeting this morning, The Mind Trust’s Education Entrepreneur Fellowship was recognized in the “Spotlight on Learning” for its innovative approach to developing or expanding education initiatives across the country.

“The Education Entrepreneur Fellowship allows community members to bring new and innovative programs to our schools, filling a void in public education,” said Bennett. “These fellows not only bring ideas that push the envelope, they ask the questions. Are we doing enough for these underserved students and how do we do more?”

The Education Entrepreneur Fellowship, The Mind Trust’s signature program, provides ambitious entrepreneurs with an opportunity to develop fresh ideas and launch initiatives in some of the State’s most underserved communities. The fellows involved are driving some of the most compelling programs across the United States in hopes of ultimately transforming public education in their area. Teach for America, the Alternative High School Initiative and Knowledge is Power Program (KIPP) have all begun as ideas in the Education Entrepreneur Fellowship.

David Harris, CEO of The Mind Trust, spoke briefly about the importance and significance of the program’s presence in Indianapolis and offered student success stories at this morning’s meeting.

“Through its unprecedented support of education entrepreneurs, Indianapolis is quickly becoming one of the nation’s best places to expand or launch break-the-mold education enterprises,” said Harris. 

The Mind Trust selects fellows from the entrepreneurial community to serve a two year term. Those selected receive a full time salary for their work in developing a break out program or initiative that would benefit underserved students and tackle serious issues in public education. Each fellow is responsible for the implementation and success of their idea, but receive ongoing support from colleagues, as well as the Mind Trust board and staff.

“I am encouraged that Indiana is becoming known for embracing innovative ideas in education, but truthfully, we have little choice,” Bennett said.  “To overcome our most difficult challenges in education, we’ll need the vision and bold action of these and many future Mind Trust Fellows.” 

Those hoping to learn more or apply for The Mind Trust’s Education Entrepreneur Fellowship should visit: www.themindtrust.org.