Following the review of application and public comment, the University of Southern Indiana, as a charter school authorizer, approved the application for Montezuma Elementary – An Indiana Agriculture and Technology School in Montezuma, Indiana, on May 22, 2026. The school is approved beginning with the 2026-27 school year, serving students in grades K-6.
“Our approval of Montezuma Elementary reflects the University’s confidence in the Indiana Agriculture and Technology School model and its potential to expand meaningful, hands-on learning opportunities for students in Montezuma, Indiana,” said Dr. Shelly Blunt, USI Provost.
Charter school authorizers do not run schools but are the entities that decide who can start a new charter school, set academic and operational expectations and oversee school performance. They also decide whether a charter should remain open or close at the end of its contract. USI was approved by the Indiana State Board of Education as a charter school authorizer in 2021 and serves as an approved charter school authorizer under Indiana Code 20‑24.
The school is expected to serve approximately 150 students in its first year and will be located at 459 Strawberry Rd., Montezuma, IN 47862.
“Having an elementary school in Montezuma means keeping the community strong and giving kids the ability to learn close to home,” says Nathan Falls, a Montezuma community member.
“Working with IATS has been great! Their willingness to help, answer endless questions, and just their passion to support these kids and community has been wonderful,” adds Cierra Earley, Montezuma community member.
USI authorizes three additional charter schools, including Indiana Agriculture and Technology School, William Arts and Technology Academy and the Springville Community Academy.
USI’s Charter Schools Office carries out these responsibilities consistent with Indiana Code and the statewide framework for monitoring and accountability of sponsors. The office’s policies and practices are grounded in nationally recognized standards for quality charter school authorizing and emphasize transparency, high expectations for performance and responsible stewardship of public funds.
Additional information including application and timeline processes can be found on the Charter Schools Office website.
