exciting news
Marion County K-12 Private Schools Initiative
May 23, 2025
Calvary Christian School has received a $200,000 grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. through its Marion County K-12 Private Schools Initiative. This is one of 36 implementation grants being awarded through phase 2 of the initiative, which is designed to help strengthen the academic achievement of students in Indianapolis and improve their prospects for success after high school.
With the grant, Calvary Christian School will launch the S.O.A.R. (Strengthening Opportunities for Achievement and Readiness) program. This initiative will establish a Student Success Center on campus, staffed by a full-time Student Success Advisor who will provide academic guidance, career direction, and post-secondary planning support. The program also includes the adoption of the Naviance College, Career, and Life Readiness platform and the Habitudes Curriculum to help students set goals, build leadership skills, and prepare for life beyond high school. S.O.A.R. reflects Calvary Christian School’s mission to provide a Christ-centered education that equips students to succeed academically and grow in character.
Principal Katy Collins
“This generous grant from Lilly Endowment will allow us to provide focused, personalized support to help every student thrive,” said Katy Collins, principal of Calvary Christian School. “Through the S.O.A.R. program, we will guide students as they discover their strengths, set goals, and pursue post-secondary success with excellence.”
Calvary Christian School, located on the southside of Indianapolis, serves a diverse student population and is dedicated to nurturing academic excellence, spiritual growth, and leadership. Lilly Endowment is making grants to public schools in Indianapolis through a separate, complementary initiative.
About Lilly Endowment
Lilly Endowment Inc. is an Indianapolis-based private foundation created in 1937 by J.K. Lilly, Sr. and his sons Eli and J.K. Jr. through gifts of stock in their pharmaceutical business, Eli Lilly and Company. Although the gifts of stock remain a financial bedrock of the Endowment, it is a separate entity from the company, with a distinct governing board, staff and location. In keeping with the founders’ wishes, the Endowment supports the causes of community development, education and religion. The Endowment funds programs throughout the United States, especially in the field of religion, and maintains a special commitment to its founders’ hometown, Indianapolis, and home state, Indiana.