The 32 graduates of JRPLA high school showed the naysayers what they could accomplish despite the conditions they face living in the Far Eastside neighborhood of Indianapolis, IN.
According to the LISC Indianapolis’ report on Economic Inclusion Agenda for the Far Eastside, the residents of the community face higher unemployment, higher rates of poverty, and lower average household income than Marion County as a whole. Black and Hispanic residents are systemically affected by these challenges compared to white residents.
Of the 32 graduates, 26 are going to college and the other six graduates either going to a trade school, the military or straight into the workforce.
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Turning Point
JRPLA was the turning point for so many of the scholars. Darrance Jennings tells his story about when he first came to the school.
“I was bad. I think I was one of the baddest students when I came here.” Darrance said. “I wouldn’t follow no rules, I wasn’t trying to hear nothing they were talking about. I was like who are y’all, you can’t tell me nothing.”
Assistant principal, Ryan Smith, remembers some of the challenges that Darrance has faced. “Darrance came from a background of violence, fighting all the time, always suspended,” said Mr. Smith.
Darrance says the school grew on him and changed his whole perspective on life. The impact JRPLA had on him resulted in his becoming class president, graduating second in his class academically, and an acceptance to Indiana University, where he is currently taking classes over the summer in preparation for the Fall semester.