Brightlane Learning Expands Tutoring Program Into Every IPS High School
As hundreds of students face housing instability, the nonprofit launches district-wide expansion and calls for volunteers to meet rising demand
Brightlane Learning will conduct a major expansion of its academic and mentoring programs into high schools managed by Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS).
As the new school year begins, Brightlane’s programming will be available at Arsenal Tech, Crispus Attucks, George Washington, and Shortridge High School. Brightlane staff, supported by volunteers, provide one-to-one and small group support at no cost to students experiencing housing instability at a time when schools are stretched beyond capacity.
This expansion comes as Indiana schools face a surge in student needs — from academic recovery and trauma to mental health challenges — while contending with staff shortages and limited resources.
In IPS alone, more than 200 high school students were unhoused last school year, and many more face housing insecurity, notes Kelly Coker, CEO of Brightlane Learning.
“We’re stepping in to fill a widening gap,” she said. “Our teams are there to offer tutoring and consistent support that help students stay in school, stay focused, and feel seen.”
Brightlane’s expansion into IPS high schools builds on successful partnerships with high schools in Pike, Washington, and Lawrence Townships, where academic support and mentorship have already made a meaningful impact.
For the first time, Brightlane will serve students across the full K–12 spectrum within IPS, creating seamless, sustained support for young people experiencing housing instability, especially during the critical transition from middle to high school. Through twice-weekly, on-site sessions, students will receive individualized tutoring and mentorship in close collaboration with IPS staff.
“Expanding tutoring and other services offered by Brightlane Learning within our high schools is another positive step under Rebuilding Stronger,” said Mary Siefert, the district’s director of school programs. “Our students are facing immense pressure—not just in the classroom, but also at home and in their neighborhoods. Brightlane Learning provides real, immediate support at a time when our young people need it most.”
Across Marion County, nearly 25% of Indiana’s 19,000 unhoused students are enrolled in local schools. Brightlane expects to serve approximately 800 students countywide this year at over 30 shelters, schools, community centers, and housing sites, offering tutoring, mentorship, and emotional support in environments where stability is scarce.
This fall, Brightlane is calling on the Indianapolis community to step up in a big way.
“Showing up for students takes people, not just programs,” Coker said. “To help meet the demand, we need volunteer tutors. Just one hour of your week can be life-changing for a student and for you.”
Brightlane Learning is now recruiting volunteers for the 2025–26 school year. No teaching experience is required. Volunteers receive comprehensive training and ongoing support from Brightlane staff. To learn more or sign up to volunteer, visit brightlanelearning.org/volunteer