Indianapolis, Indiana – In a major milestone for Indianapolis Public Schools, James A. Garfield School 31 has officially earned the highly respected K–8 STEM School Certification from the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE). The achievement places the school among an elite group of just 100 schools across the state that have received this honor, a recognition of Garfield’s deep-rooted commitment to providing students with a dynamic, hands-on education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
The certification, awarded under IDOE’s rigorous 2024–2025 evaluation framework, represents more than just a title. It is the result of years of intentional planning, hard work, and collaboration among educators, students, and community stakeholders. The school underwent a thorough evaluation process that included a formal application and an in-person site review conducted by a team from IDOE’s Office of Teaching and Learning.
What sets Garfield apart is not only the fact that it achieved the certification — but that it did so with perfection. The school received a flawless score of 45 out of 45 on the evaluation rubric, reflecting its excellence in STEM instruction and its success in creating an environment where students are encouraged to think critically, solve real-world problems, and stay curious.
In its official feedback, the IDOE noted, “It was apparent from your application and site visit that your team has put forth great effort to provide a comprehensive STEM-based educational program for your students.” That acknowledgment captures the essence of Garfield’s educational culture — one that fosters innovation, creativity, and lifelong learning.
Amanda Faulkner, Principal of James A. Garfield School 31, called the achievement a proud moment for the entire school community.
“Earning this certification affirms our commitment to academic excellence and innovation,” Faulkner said. “It reflects our teachers’ dedication, our students’ enthusiasm, and the unwavering support of our families and community partners. Together, we’ve built a learning culture emphasizing curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills essential for success in today’s world.
“This recognition isn’t just a milestone for our school, it’s a catalyst for what’s possible across our district. We are excited to serve as a model and resource for others, and we look forward to continuing to lead the way in advancing STEM education for all learners.”
Faulkner’s comments reflect a broader ambition: to not only celebrate the recognition but also to inspire similar efforts across other schools in the district. STEM education, once considered a niche or specialized track, is increasingly being recognized as vital preparation for the careers of the future. By focusing on applied learning, cross-disciplinary thinking, and technology fluency, schools like Garfield are giving their students a head start in a world where innovation drives change.
IPS Superintendent Dr. Aleesia Johnson echoed that sentiment, applauding the school’s hard work and expressing hope for its broader impact.
“Our students deserve learning environments that challenge, inspire, and prepare them for the future — and that’s exactly what STEM education offers,” she said. “I’m beyond proud of the work of the teachers, staff, and leaders at James A. Garfield for their dedication to making this vision a reality, and for the amazing work they’ve done to achieve this well-deserved recognition.”
Throughout the certification process, the evaluation team assessed not just what was taught in classrooms, but how it was taught — looking at the integration of STEM principles across subjects, opportunities for collaborative projects, and the ways students are encouraged to apply knowledge in real-world contexts. Garfield’s educational model stood out in every area, from its teacher-led innovation to student engagement and the strong community involvement that supports its mission.
Garfield’s journey toward this certification has been marked by persistence and a deep sense of purpose. From after-school STEM clubs and robotics programs to project-based learning initiatives woven into the everyday curriculum, the school has built an environment where exploration is encouraged and failure is seen as a necessary step toward innovation.
The recognition also holds significance for families in the Garfield school community. For parents and guardians, it offers reassurance that their children are being prepared not just to pass tests, but to lead — to become creators, builders, and thinkers in an ever-changing world.
While the certification itself is cause for celebration, Garfield staff and administrators are already looking ahead. Plans are underway to expand STEM partnerships, increase access to specialized learning tools, and serve as a mentor site for other schools interested in strengthening their own STEM programming.
In an educational climate where schools are being asked to do more with less, James A. Garfield School 31 stands as a reminder of what is possible when a community comes together around a shared vision. It is a school where ambition meets action — and where the next generation of scientists, engineers, coders, and inventors is already hard at work.
As Principal Faulkner put it, this recognition is not an endpoint, but a launchpad. With its K–8 STEM Certification in hand and a thriving culture of learning in place, Garfield School 31 is poised to lead the way in shaping Indiana’s educational future.
