For Principal John Williams, each new school year holds new possibilities. In his opinion, each year has its own period of growth and development, and this year, he is excited about the opportunity presented by the move of the Carmel Learning Center.

Previously at Clay Middle School, the alternative school provided a chance for students who, for various reasons, struggle at this school to catch up. It began three years ago in a portable classroom, and now it is directly west of this school.

Rich Allen, who retired as a CHS counselor last year, now serves as the center’s coordinator. He said his reason for leaving retirement was that he held a “soft spot” for students who were struggling.

“It was natural for me to get involved with the program,” Allen said.

Allen said he is glad the center moved locations, because it has the chance to expand and take in more students. However, he stressed that the program is not for any student who is unhappy with the high school. There is an application process involved before the student may enroll in the center.

Both Allen and Williams agree that the Carmel Learning Center helps the students they take on immensely.

Williams said, “In the past, a lot of those kids would just drop out. Now we have a place for them to go.”