Already a relative hotbed for New Tech high schools, Indiana saw eight more open their doors at the start of the current school year – including locations in Huntington, LaGrange, Adams and Vanderburgh counties. That brought New Tech’s total presence in Indiana to 16, easily more than any other state. Additionally, three more are likely to open in northern Indiana in 2011 (in Gary, South Bend and Columbia City).

New Tech originated in Napa, California, in 1996. The idea was initiated by businesspeople in the community who had visions of a workforce trained in the ways of the new economy – employees properly prepared for a world of advanced technology and the practicality of functioning in a business environment. New Tech utilizes project-based, group learning to generate discussion and problem-solving skills in the classroom, and the technology allows students to put their creations to the test.

New Tech Network President Lydia Dobyns observes there are several key reasons why Indiana has proven most conducive to this type of learning. “The interest and support from the governor and state superintendent has been wonderful,” she says. “They realize the value of innovative reform and believed New Tech was worthy of statewide investment.”