The College & Careers program at Christel House Indianapolis offers students a comprehensive K-12 education. With instruction from local design professionals and Ball State University College of Architecture and Planning students, all fourth graders are learning about careers in architecture, design, and related construction industries.
Through four sessions, the 4th Grade Architecture series introduces young students to a variety of professions like landscape architecture, planning & urban design, historic preservation, interior design, and construction management. The sessions are presented by the Association of Indiana Architects. Gary Vance, Planner and Architect, says the program uses a children’s book series called “Kid Architect” to help students develop a basic understanding of what an architect is and what they do. “The goal is for the reader to see themselves as Kid Architect during travels to important and interesting buildings and public art.” Each student will receive a Kid Architect book of their choice to take home, donated by The BSMNT, a local, full-service integrated marketing agency. Jamiah Weaver, K-8 College & Careers Advisor, says exposing students to different careers in early grades gets kids thinking about options. “The Architect series is an important part of College & Careers because it’s highlighting an industry that many of the students may not have considered. We’re introducing our students to these professions and sparking an interest at an early age.”