The landscape of education in the University District has shifted with the opening of Metro@Indianola, a new STEM-focused campus courtesy of Metro Schools, earlier this year. The recently renovated historic Indianola Middle School building, now a hub for innovation and learning, was handed off by Ohio State University to Metro Schools under a lease agreement. According to OSU news, the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission covered $15 million in renovation costs, and Battelle contributed an additional $13.5 million, with other community donors chipping in.
Stephanie Elliot, College Credit Plus program director at Ohio State, touted the benefits of Metro's education model, "Metro Early College High School offers a mastery-based learning approach with a strong emphasis on STEM education, equipping students for success both in high school and their future endeavors," she highlighted the value of the partnership with Ohio State University Academy in an interview with OSU News, where students can earn college credits during their high school tenure. Metro@Indianola stands on the ground of education and opportunity on a nine-acre spread just beside the Ohio History Connection, and with a 30-year tenure assured by Ohio State's lease, it's poised to shape many forthcoming minds.
In an effort to reinforce STEM education and prepare students for the burgeoning state economy, Battelle's senior vice president for philanthropy and education, Wes Hall, spoke of their unyielding support by saying, "The expanded Metro campus represents Battelle’s enduring commitment to STEM education in Central Ohio," as informed by OSU News. In tandem, the Metro Early College High School's original location on Kenny Road is transitioning into Metro Elementary School this fall, aligning with the relocation of older students to the new campus.
Metro Schools' superintendent, Meka Pace, cast a light on the significance of the renovation project and its impact, "This historic building has been reimagined as a cutting-edge learning space where students will develop the skills and mindset needed for success in a rapidly evolving world," she reflected on the ethos behind the project in discussions with OSU News, "We’re grateful to our partners for helping us create a campus that honors Indianola’s legacy while preparing students for the future of work and learning." Both partners and community members stand on the threshold of this educational threshold, watching as history is not only preserved but also pushed forward into new realms of potential and progress.
