When the COVID-19 pandemic forced the shutdown of public schools, Taylor Martin was only 10 credits away from graduating high school; however, she struggled with the online learning format and was unable to finish. Now 23 years old, life hasn’t been easy. 

“I went down a bad path,” she said. “I was later admitted to Fairbanks [a recovery center] where I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder.”

Eager for a fresh start, Taylor set a goal to complete her high school education, and in August 2024, she enrolled at The Excel Center®, Goodwill’s tuition-free high school for adults. She was nervous at first and unsure of what to expect, but she instantly felt at home. 

“Everyone was welcoming, but what really stood out to me was that all of the staff members knew my name – out of all of the students, they remembered me,” Taylor recalled.

In September, shortly after enrolling, Taylor was arrested on charges related to events that occurred before attending The Excel Center. She was embarrassed and worried she’d be kicked out of school. 

“No one at The Excel Center judged me though,” Taylor said. “Two of my teachers even offered to go to court and speak on my behalf. When I got out of jail, I was placed on house arrest, but my teachers worked with me to ensure I could continue my schooling.”

The Excel Center in southeast Indianapolis was developed in partnership with the City of Indianapolis and Mayor Hogsett, with funding specifically designated for students – like Taylor – who have justice-involved backgrounds.

In addition to accommodating her unique circumstances, the school assisted Taylor in other meaningful ways. Staff connected her with Second Helpings, where she is currently completing her court-ordered community service, and referred her to a justice counselor.

“When I completed house arrest, The Excel Center staff celebrated with me,” Taylor said. “That’s when it really sunk in how much they care about me succeeding.”

In February 2025, Taylor graduated with her Indiana Core 40 high school diploma and a Certified Veterinary Assistant credential – both earned at The Excel Center, and all at no cost to her. 

“I was so excited to walk across the stage to get my diploma,” Taylor recalled. “It felt great.” 

Once her community service hours are completed and her charges are dropped through a diversion program, Taylor plans to use her industry-recognized job certification to seek a job in the veterinary field.

“I recommend The Excel Center to anyone who is thinking about returning to high school,” she said.

Visit excelcenter.org to learn more and enroll.