News Topic: Academic Programs & Education

Indiantown High School Now Accepting Applications for the 2026–2027 School Year
A-Rated Public Charter High School in Martin County Opens Enrollment for Incoming and Current High School Students
INDIANTOWN, Fla. (March 31, 2026) — Indiantown High School (IHS), a technologically advanced public charter high school operated by Indian River State College in partnership with the Martin County School District, is now accepting applications for the 2026–2027 school year.
Indiantown High School
Located at 19000 SW Citrus Boulevard in Indiantown, Florida, IHS is an A-rated school by the Florida Department of Education — and one of Martin County’s most distinctive educational opportunities for high school students.
College Credits and Career Certifications — Starting Freshman Year
Indiantown High School integrates traditional high school coursework with college-level dual enrollment through Indian River State College and hands-on career and technical education (CTE). Eligible students can begin earning college credits as early as freshman year. Some graduate with an Associate of Arts degree already in hand.
IHS offers three career academies: Medical Science, Marketing and Entrepreneurship, and a state-of-the-art Welding Program. During the 2025-2026 school year, students earned industry certifications in Phlebotomy, EKG, Social Media, Entrepreneurship, and Small Business.
Small School. Big Opportunities.
With a smaller school environment, personalized counseling, and a college-style block schedule, IHS creates an environment where students don’t get lost in the crowd. Teachers know their students. Counselors know their goals. And students still have the option to participate in sports and activities at their home school.
How to Apply
Indiantown High School is a choice school — students must apply to attend. Applications are reviewed in accordance with Martin County School District guidelines. Apply online at https://irsc.edu/about/indiantown-high-school/. Call 772-619-1100 to learn more or schedule a tour. Staff are available Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–3 p.m.
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About Indiantown High School Indiantown High School is an A-rated public charter high school operated by Indian River State College in partnership with the Martin County School District, serving grades 9–12 in Indiantown, Florida. Learn more at irsc.edu/about/indiantown-high-school.
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Indiantown High School Acepta Solicitudes para el Año Escolar 2026–2027 La Escuela Secundaria Pública Charter con Calificación A de Florida en el Condado de Martin Abre la Inscripción para Estudiantes de Secundaria Nuevos y Actuales
INDIANTOWN, Fla. (31 de marzo de 2026) — Indiantown High School (IHS), una escuela secundaria pública charter tecnológicamente avanzada operada por Indian River State College en asociación con el Distrito Escolar del Condado de Martin, está aceptando solicitudes para el año escolar 2026–2027.
Ubicada en 19000 SW Citrus Boulevard en Indiantown, Florida, IHS es una escuela con calificación A otorgada por el Departamento de Educación de Florida — y una de las oportunidades educativas más destacadas del Condado de Martin para estudiantes de secundaria.
Créditos Universitarios y Certificaciones Profesionales — Desde el Primer Año
Indiantown High School integra el plan de estudios tradicional de secundaria con cursos universitarios de doble inscripción a través de Indian River State College y educación técnica y profesional (CTE) práctica. Los estudiantes elegibles pueden comenzar a obtener créditos universitarios desde el primer año. Algunos se gradúan con un título de Asociado en Artes ya en mano.
IHS ofrece tres academias profesionales: Ciencias Médicas, Mercadotecnia y Emprendimiento, y un Programa de Soldadura de última generación.
Una Escuela Pequeña. Grandes Oportunidades.
Con un entorno escolar más pequeño, orientación personalizada y un horario universitario por bloques, IHS crea un ambiente donde los estudiantes no se pierden entre la multitud. Los maestros conocen a sus estudiantes. Los consejeros conocen sus metas. Y los estudiantes aún tienen la opción de participar en deportes y actividades en su escuela de origen.
Cómo Solicitar
Indiantown High School es una escuela de elección — los estudiantes deben solicitar admisión para asistir. Las solicitudes se revisan de acuerdo con las pautas del Distrito Escolar del Condado de Martin. Solicite en línea en https://irsc.edu/about/indiantown-high-school/. Llame al 772-619-1100 para obtener más información o programar una visita. El personal está disponible de lunes a viernes, de 8 a.m. a 3 p.m.
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Acerca de Indiantown High School Indiantown High School es una escuela secundaria pública charter con calificación A, operada por Indian River State College en asociación con el Distrito Escolar del Condado de Martin, que atiende a los grados 9–12 en Indiantown, Florida. Obtenga más información en irsc.edu/about/indiantown-high-school.
March 31, 2026
RiverBlog: 60 Years of Care: Indian River State College’s Nursing Program Celebrates a Milestone — and Looks to the Future
Six decades ago, Indian River State College made a promise to the Treasure Coast: we will train the nurses this community needs. As the college reflects on the 60th anniversary of Indian River State College’s Associate Degree Nursing program, that promise has never been stronger.
Before simulation labs and digital records, nursing education was built on hands-on instruction and dedication. This 1975 photo captures practical nursing students at Martin Memorial Hospital — part of a long tradition of clinical training that Indian River State College has carried forward for 60 years.
Since 1965, thousands of graduates have walked out of this program and into emergency rooms, ICUs, pediatric wards, and community clinics across our region and beyond. Today, when you walk into Cleveland Clinic or Lawnwood Regional Medical Center, there is a very good chance your nurse is an Indian River State College graduate — and that they chose to stay right here on the Treasure Coast to serve the community that trained them.
A Program Built for This Community
What makes Indian River State College’s nursing program truly distinctive is its deep roots in the region it serves. Executive Dean Dr. Patty Gagliano, who leads the college’s Health Sciences Division, describes a program that has grown alongside the community — one where it is not uncommon for a student to walk in and say their parent sat in the same classroom, trained in the same clinical settings, and built a career right here at home.
A new chapter begins. Guests got their first look inside Indian River State College’s state-of-the-art School of Nursing simulation center during the 2023 ribbon cutting, where faculty demonstrated the cutting-edge technology preparing the next generation of Treasure Coast nurses.
“It is a full circle life,” Dr. Gagliano shared on a recent episode of River Talk on Indian River State College Public Media. “When you see a parent and a child in our program, graduating and working — that speaks to the quality of what we do and the breadth and depth of who we reach.”
Dr. Patty Gagliano, Executive Dean of Health Sciences at Indian River State College, has dedicated her career to building a nursing program that serves — and reflects — the community it trains.
John Ramfjord, Senior Development Director at the Indian River State College Foundation, has seen that quality firsthand. In his first weeks on the job, he met with healthcare partners across the region and heard the same thing repeatedly: Indian River State College nurses are different.
“The stories I heard about hiring Indian River State College nurses meant that they were getting a quality employee,” Ramfjord said. “They weren’t leaving, they were staying. You hear stories all the time of high turnover in nursing and nursing shortages — but this is one of the few places at full capacity, in part because of the quality of students coming out of Indian River State College.”
That reach extends to Indian River State College’s state-of-the-art simulation center, located at the College’s Pruitt Campus in Port St. Lucie. The simulation center replicates a real nursing unit with 11 fully equipped rooms, the same alarms, tools, and equipment students will encounter in any acute care facility in the area. Students gain hands-on experience from birth to hospice care — all in a controlled, safe environment — before ever setting foot on a hospital floor. Ramfjord, who has toured nursing programs at colleges and universities across the country, is direct in his assessment.
“I have seen several other colleges and universities with nursing programs, and they pale in comparison to the resources that we have here for preparing our nurses,” he said. “It is second to none.”
It is, by any measure, one of the finest nursing training facilities in the state.
Celebrating 60 Years — and Funding the Next 60
To mark this milestone, the Indian River State College Foundation is launching the 60 for 60 Campaign — an initiative inviting the community to give $60 or more in celebration of 60 years of nursing excellence. Every gift will help shape the next generation of nurses, supporting scholarships, student resources, and faculty development.
Indian River State College School of Nursing student Andrew MacDonald practices life-saving skills in the college’s simulation lab — the same skills he will carry into hospitals and healthcare facilities across the Treasure Coast.
As Dr. Gagliano put it, “Foundation support opens doors — for students to get into the campus, through scholarship, through the resources they need to be successful.” Faculty, she notes, are “the unsung heroes” of nursing education, providing the one-on-one mentoring and guidance that carries students across the finish line from student to nurse.
Ramfjord sees the campaign as a natural extension of the pride the community already has in this program. “The buy-in is a sense of pride that the community has in the quality of students that Indian River State College Nursing produces — and that’s what has allowed the 60 years to continue,” he said. “I’d like to see that continue, which is why we’re having this campaign.”
To learn more or get involved in the 60 for 60 Campaign before its official launch, contact John Ramfjord at 772-462-7244, or visit giving.irsc.edu.
Is Nursing Your Path? Find Out April 6th
Whether you are working a job you do not love, a recent graduate looking for direction, or a CNA or EMT ready to take the next step — Indian River State College wants to meet you where you are.
Teamwork is at the heart of nursing. An Indian River State College instructor guides students through a collaborative patient care simulation, mirroring the real-world clinical environments they will enter upon graduation.
“It’s not a physical appearance where they all look the same,” Ramfjord noted of Indian River State College nursing students. “It’s the internal drive, the internal motivations. The willingness to care is what our nursing students look like.”
The college is hosting a Nursing and Health Sciences Open House on Monday, April 6th, from 4:30–6:30 p.m. at the Pruitt Campus. Simulation labs will be open, faculty will be on hand, and advisors, financial aid officers, and library services staff will all be available to answer your questions. It is a chance to see yourself in the role — and to see what 60 years of excellence looks like up close.
Learn more and plan your visit at irsc.edu.
River Talk is produced by Indian River State College Public Media and is available at wqcs.org. The full episode featuring Dr. Patty Gagliano and John Ramfjord is available now.
March 24, 2026

Public Notice of Fee Changes

The Indian River State College (IRSC) District Board of Trustees will hold its regularly scheduled monthly meeting on April 28, 2026, 1 p.m. In addition to the regular agenda, which may include, but is not limited to, business affairs, personnel matters, facilities items, and academic and student affairs, the District Board of Trustees will also consider changes to lab and testing fees.

Florida Statute 1009.23(12)(a) grants authority to Florida College System institutional boards of trustees to establish fees within a range allowed by state statute. These fees “shall not exceed the cost of services provided and shall only be charged to persons receiving the service.”

The proposed fees listed below are a result of a thorough review of the costs of every laboratory and course and reflect the costs of consumables, as well as pass-through fees for testing and insurance. All laboratory and course fees are used to purchase items specifically related to that courses’ student learning outcomes and course objectives.

The following chart highlights proposed per-course fee changes by term:

Indian River State College
Proposed Fee Changes – March 12, 2026

Effective term: Fall 2026
Lab Fee-per course charge
Course	Current	Proposed
MAC 1105 College Algebra	4.00	0.00
MAT 1033 Intermediate Algebra	6.00	0.00
MGF 1130 Mathematical Thinking	10.00	0.00
MGF 1131 Mathematics in Context	15.00	0.00
STA 2023 Elementary Statistics I	6.00	0.00

Insurance Fee–per course charge
Course	Current	Proposed
NUR 1021C Intro to Nursing Concepts 1	26.78	13.39
NUR 1034C Health-Illness-Concepts 2	0.00	13.39
NUR 2035C Health-Illness Concepts 3	0.00	13.39
NUR 2205C Nursing and Complex Health Concepts 4	0.00	13.39
NUR 3065C Nursing Assessment	0.00	13.39
NUR 4636C Community Health Nursing	26.78	13.39
NUR 4827 Leadership and Management in Professional Nursing	0.00	13.39
PRN 0933C Transition to Graduate Practical Nurse	0.00	13.39
PRN 0373C Practical Nursing Medical Surgical I	0.00	13.39
PRN 0374C Practical Nursing Medical Surgical II	0.00	13.39
NSP P933 IV Therapy	0.00	13.39

The estimated economic impact on all affected persons cannot be determined. Copies of the proposed fees are posted on the College website at irsc.edu.

Indian River State College complies with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Individuals with disabilities requiring special accommodations or assistance to join the District Board of Trustees’ monthly meeting should call the President’s Office at 772-462-4763 with such need at least (3) business days in advance.

March 12, 2026

Indian River State College Observes Career & Technical Education Month
The River’s Programs Lead the Way in Preparing Students for High-Demand Careers
FORT PIERCE, FL (February 27, 2026) — Indian River State College joins educational institutions across Florida in celebrating Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, advancing Florida’s mission to become the nation’s leader in workforce education.
Through innovative programs in advanced manufacturing, applied technologies, and a wide range of career and technical fields, the College continues to connect students with life-changing, high-wage career opportunities.
The state of Florida recently announced it reached #1 in workforce education in the country. According to a press release, during the 2024-25 academic year, Florida achieved record-breaking CTE enrollment, serving more than 818,000 K-12 CTE students and nearly 512,000 postsecondary CTE students, which represents a 30% increase since the 2018-19 academic year.
“Career and Technical Education opens doors to real opportunity — it provides a direct path from the classroom to a fulfilling, high-wage career,” said Indian River State College President Timothy E. Moore. “At Indian River State College, we are proud to offer CTE programs that meet students where they are and prepare them for where they want to go. Whether a student is pursuing a career in healthcare, advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity, or the culinary arts, The River has a program designed to get them there — often in two years or less. As Florida celebrates its achievement as the nation’s #1 state in workforce education, we are honored to play a leading role in that success right here in our community.”
CTE at Indian River State College can take the form of an A.S. degree, technical certificate, vocational certificate, or apprenticeship. The College offers 116 CTE programs spanning fields such as radiography, phlebotomy, dental hygiene, advanced manufacturing, culinary, hospitality, accounting, entrepreneurship, cybersecurity, public safety, automotive technology, welding, and HVAC.
Indian River State College’s CTE programs feature:
- Industry-certified instructors with real-world experience
- State-of-the-art training facilities and equipment
- Partnerships with local employers for internships and job placement
- Flexible scheduling options including evening and online classes
- Career counseling and job placement assistance
Many programs can be completed in two years or less, with some offering certifications in as little as a few months. The College maintains strong relationships with local industry partners to ensure curriculum aligns with current workforce needs and emerging technologies.
To learn more about Indian River State College’s CTE programs, visit the college’s website at irsc.edu.
February 26, 2026
The River Opens Its Doors This Spring: Free Open Houses Across the Treasure Coast
STEM · Hospitality & Culinary · Nursing & Health Sciences · Public Safety · Business & Cybersecurity · Workforce Education · Welding· Teaching
Fort Pierce, FL (February 24, 2026) — Indian River State College (The River) will host specialized Open House events this spring, giving prospective students a chance to explore career programs, tour facilities, meet faculty, and learn about financial aid and enrollment. All events are free, open to the public. Registration recommended. Free parking. ADA accessible.
STEM Open House March 25, 2026, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. | Massey Campus, 3209 Virginia Avenue, N-117, Fort Pierce –Engineering technology, computer science, mathematics, and natural sciences. Tour specialized labs and meet faculty in high-demand technical fields.
Hospitality & Tourism, Culinary and Restaurant Management Open House March 25, 2026, 6–7:30 p.m. | Mueller Campus, 6155 College Lane, Bldg. C – Richardson Center, Vero Beach — Culinary arts, hotel management, restaurant operations, and event planning. Tour professional kitchens and meet award-winning culinary instructors.
School of Health & Human Sciences Open House April 6, 2026, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. | Pruitt Campus, 500 NW California Blvd., Building G, Port St. Lucie –Registered nursing, practical nursing, dental hygiene, radiography, and more. Tour simulation labs with advanced medical training equipment.
Public Service Education Open House April 14, 2026, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. | Treasure Coast Public Safety Training Complex, 4600 Kirby Loop Road, Fort Pierce — Law enforcement, fire science, EMS, and criminal justice. Tour fire training towers, tactical ranges, and emergency response facilities.
Business, Accounting & Cybersecurity Open House April 14, 2026, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. | Massey Campus, 3209 Virginia Avenue, Building Y 102, Fort Pierce — Business administration, accounting, entrepreneurship, and cybersecurity. Learn about industry certifications and IT security career pathways.
School of Education (Teacher Preparation) Open House April 14, 2026, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. | Massey Campus, 3209 Virginia Avenue, Building C, Fort Pierce – Join us to learn about the different pathways to becoming a teacher.
Workforce Education Open House April 16, 2026, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. | Massey Campus, S 31^st Street, 3209 Virginia Avenue, Building O, Fort Pierce — Skilled trades, project management, workforce training, and professional certifications. Explore flexible scheduling and industry partnership programs.
Welding Open House April 29, 2026, 6 – 8 p.m. | Massey Campus, 3209 Virginia Avenue, Building C, Fort Pierce — Whether you’re a high school student, career-changer, or welding enthusiast, this is your chance to spark a dynamic career! Connect with industry-expert instructors, explore program requirements, and discover how we can transform your career aspirations into real-world skills and opportunities.
For information about the open houses and to register, visit https://connect.irsc.edu/?category=open-house.
Indian River State College serves Florida’s Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties, offering high-quality, affordable education to over 24,000 students annually through traditional and online courses. The College provides more than 130 programs leading to bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, and technical certificates. Visit irsc.edu.
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February 24, 2026

Discover Your Healthcare Future! Indian River State College School of Health and Human Sciences to Host Open House on 4/6/26 

Smiling nursing student in white cardigan and blue scrubs holding yellow sign reading 'Future #RiverNurse' at open house event with colorful banner decorations spelling 'WALK' and 'YOU ARE AWESOME' with heart symbols in background — *Indian River State College School of Health and Human Sciences to host Open House for prospective students.*

PORT ST. LUCIE, FL (February 16, 2026) — Indian River State College School of Health and Human Sciences will host a free open house on April 6, 2026, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the College’s Port St. Lucie campus, 500 NW California Boulevard. 

The event provides prospective students with comprehensive information about health and nursing education opportunities and career paths in the growing healthcare field. Attendees will tour a state-of-the-art simulation center, laboratories, and classroom facilities while meeting faculty and learning about curriculum offerings. 

 Comprehensive student support services will be showcased, including academic advising, financial aid counseling, scholarship information, and tutoring resources. Faculty members will be available to discuss specific program details and careers 

The open house welcomes prospective students who are interested in exploring healthcare options, career changes, and high school students considering college programs. No prior registration fee is required. 

The School of Health and Human Sciences offers a broad range of health-related programs:

Associate Degree in Nursing (RN)	Bachelor Degree in Nursing (RN-BSN)
Central Service Technology	Dental Hygiene
Healthcare Navigator Specialist	Healthcare Informatics Specialists
Health Services Management (AS Degree)	BS in Healthcare Management
Medical Assisting	Medical Coder/Biller
Medical Laboratory Technology	Nursing Assistant
Pharmacy Technician	Phlebotomy
Physical Therapist Assistant	Practical Nursing
Radiography	Respiratory Care
Surgical Services Technology

Event Details: 

Date: Monday, April 6, 2026 

Time: 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. 

Location: Indian River State College, 500 NW California Blvd., Port St. Lucie, FL 34986 

Cost: Free admission   

Registration: Online at https://connect.irsc.edu/event/1062758 

Information: Phone 772-336-6330 or email IRSCSONprograminfo@irsc.edu 

February 16, 2026

Time Is Running Out: Apply by Feb. 28 for The River’s One-Year Path to RN Career
Healthcare professionals at Indian River State College engage in hands-on clinical training, practicing essential patient care procedures on a simulation mannequin.
Port St. Lucie, FL (February 10, 2026) – With less than three weeks until the February 28 deadline, Indian River State College (The River) School of Health and Human Sciences is reminding prospective nursing students that applications are still being accepted for its two nursing programs starting this summer.
The River is offering two distinct pathways for aspiring nurses at the College’s Pruitt Campus in Port St. Lucie:
The Practical Nursing Program offers a part-time, daytime schedule for individuals beginning their nursing careers, with completion possible in 1.5 years.
The Bridge to RN (Track Two) Summer 2026 program provides Licensed Practice Nurses, Registered Respiratory Therapists, and Licensed Paramedics with an accelerated path to earning their RN degree in just one year.
Both programs feature hands-on learning experiences, expert faculty instruction, and a supportive educational environment designed to prepare students for real-world healthcare challenges.
Applications will be accepted through February 28. Prospective students can learn more at irsc.edu/program/nursing/ or by contacting the School at (772) 336-6330 or IRSCSONprograminfo@irsc.edu.
February 10, 2026
Indian River State College and Superhuman Partner to Advance Agentic AI Integration in Higher Education
Fort Pierce, FL (February 3, 2026) — Indian River State College (The River) today announced an expanded partnership with Superhuman (formerly Grammarly) to deploy an agentic AI infrastructure across its campuses. This step makes The River the nation’s first open enrollment state college to implement a comprehensive, institution-wide AI strategy from Superhuman that embeds intelligent assistance into the familiar digital tools students, faculty, and employees already rely on for learning, teaching, and work. Building on a successful 2025 collaboration with Grammarly —Superhuman’s writing assistance platform—the new partnership leverages Superhuman Go, designed to enhance student learning, streamline faculty workflows, and modernize administrative operations.
“Our partnership with Grammarly has been transformative, and Superhuman Go represents the next evolution of that vision,” said Dr. Timothy E. Moore, President of Indian River State College. “AI is reshaping every industry, and our responsibility is both to equip students with the skills they need to thrive in this intelligence-driven economy and to transform our own operations to meet this moment. Colleges and universities won’t be able to position themselves for the future without working closely with AI experts who understand higher education.”
A Platform Built for Education
Superhuman Go creates a comprehensive ecosystem of AI agents, including those designed for specific academic and administrative workflows. As part of the partnership, the College will access seats for students and employees, and the ability to develop custom agents tailored to specific disciplines.
“Indian River State College is at a crossroads,” said Dr. Michael Hageloh, Executive Director of Strategic Initiatives. “Generative AI is rapidly transforming education from a literacy-based world to one built around dynamic intelligence. AI is becoming the infrastructure for knowledge work. We are choosing responsible integration, and Superhuman is the partner to get us there.”
Addressing a Critical Moment in Higher Education
The partnership comes as institutions nationwide grapple with integrating generative AI in ways that enhance rather than replace human capabilities. Superhuman Go embeds contextual, proactive AI assistance directly into existing workflows—from Canvas and Google Docs to email and administrative systems.
“We are excited to bring responsible, agentic AI to Indian River State College,” said Dr. Bruce Fraser, Executive Director of AI Initiatives. “Superhuman understands education and provides the technical expertise needed to empower educators for the AI era.”
The partnership prioritizes authentic, AI-augmented learning in support of student retention, engagement, and preparation for a workforce that increasingly expects graduates to use AI technology effectively and responsibly. This approach dovetails with a second commitment: upskilling College employees and utilizing Superhuman’s platform to transform business operations.
“Indian River State College represents the kind of forward-thinking institution that recognizes AI’s potential to transform open-access education,” said Jenny Maxwell, Head of Education at Superhuman. “Their commitment to being the first open enrollment state college in the nation to embrace our comprehensive agentic AI demonstrates true leadership. We’re co-creating a replicable model that institutions nationwide can adapt.”
As the first open enrollment state college to take this step, The River will participate in Superhuman’s Customer Advisory Board, contributing insights that will shape future AI capabilities for other colleges. The River and Superhuman plan to co-publish research findings, positioning The River as a national thought leader in AI integration for open-enrollment institutions.
The expanded partnership takes effect immediately.
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About Indian River State College: Indian River State College serves Florida’s Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties, offering high-quality, affordable education to over 24,000 students annually through traditional and online courses. The College provides more than 130 programs leading to bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, and technical certificates. Visit irsc.edu.
About Superhuman: Superhuman (formerly Grammarly) is the AI productivity platform on a mission to unlock the superhuman potential in everyone. The Superhuman suite of apps and agents brings AI wherever people work, integrating with over 1 million applications and websites. The company’s products include Grammarly’s writing assistance, Coda’s collaborative workspaces, Mail’s inbox management, and Go, the proactive AI assistant that understands context and delivers help automatically. Founded in 2009, Superhuman empowers over 40 million people, 50,000 organizations, and 3,000 educational institutions worldwide to eliminate busywork and focus on what matters. Learn more at superhuman.com.
Media Contact: Kathleen Walter or Howard Matzner, Indian River State College, 772.789.0821 PIO@irsc.edu
February 3, 2026
Indian River State College Foundation Opens Scholarship Opportunities for 2026-2027 Academic Year
FORT PIERCE, FL (January 14, 2026) — The Indian River State College Foundation (Foundation) announces its academic scholarship application period for the 2026-2027 academic year is now open. The Foundation provides Indian River State College students access to millions in educational funding annually. Following a record-breaking year of awarding over $5 million in student scholarships and Promise Program support, the Foundation continues its commitment to making higher education accessible to students in the College’s service area of Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties.
Key Details:
- Application Opens: Now for 2026-2027
- Eligibility: New and returning Indian River State College students
- Award Criteria: Multiple factors including academic achievement, career goals, financial need
- Application Status: Open until all funds are awarded
“Education should never be out of reach due to financial constraints,” emphasizes the Foundation’s Executive Director, Annabel Robertson, Esq., CFRE. “Through these scholarship opportunities, we’re removing barriers and empowering students to pursue their academic dreams and career aspirations.”
The Foundation offers over 300 unique scholarships tailored to individual student needs and backgrounds. Awards consider various factors, including career and academic interests, academic achievement, community involvement, county of residence, financial need, and organizational affiliations.
Important Note: These scholarships are administered separately from The River’s Promise Program and represent additional funding opportunities for eligible students.
How to Apply:
1. New students must first apply for admission at https://irsc.edu/admissions/index.html
1. Activate College email account
1. Visit the scholarship portal at https://irsc.student.awardedsoftware.com/auth/login
1. Complete scholarship profile with College email credentials
Students are strongly encouraged to apply early, as applications are evaluated on a rolling basis until all funds are distributed.
“These scholarships represent more than financial aid—they represent opportunity, accessibility, and our belief in every student’s potential,” adds Robertson. “We are invested in our students’ success and the future of our community.”
To learn more about the Indian River State College Foundation, scholarship opportunities, and how to support student success, visit giving.irsc.edu.
About Indian River State College Foundation: The Indian River State College Foundation provides educational opportunities through scholarships and program support. As the funding partner of Indian River State College, the Foundation works to ensure that quality education remains within reach for all students.
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January 14, 2026
Indian River State College Now Accepting Applications for 2026 Promise Program: Two Years of Tuition-Free College for Local High School Graduates
FORT PIERCE, FL (January 8, 2026) – Indian River State College is now accepting applications for its 2026 Promise Program, offering local high school graduates the opportunity to earn an associate degree with 100% of in-state tuition covered.
Indian River State College signed up its first 2026 Promise Program students at an event at Jensen Beach High School on January 7, 2026.
Program Overview
The Indian River State College Promise Program provides eligible 2026 graduates from public, charter, approved private, or in-district homeschool students in Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee, and St. Lucie counties with two years of tuition-free education leading to an Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, or Associate in Applied Science degree.
“This is your opportunity to pursue higher education without the burden of tuition costs,” said Dr. Timothy E. Moore, Indian River State College president. “If you’re graduating high school in 2026, I encourage you to apply today. The Promise Program can open doors to your future career, help you explore your interests, and let you earn a degree right here in your community. Don’t wait – take this step toward your goals.”
Program Highlights
- Free Tuition: Covers 100% of in-state tuition for eligible students
- Two-Year Completion: Students can earn their degree in six terms or less
- No GPA or Income Requirements: Open to all qualifying 2026 graduates who meet program deadlines
- Local Opportunity: Available to students from four counties in the Treasure Coast region.
- Applications Now Open: Eligible students can apply today
How to Apply
Interested students should:
1. Apply to Indian River State College and select “Promise 2026” in their application. Applications can be completed on the College’s website at irsc.edu.
1. Submit the 2026-2027 FAFSA (school code: 001493) and Florida Residency Documents
1. Send official high school transcripts
1. Register for classes (minimum 12 credit hours)
1. Complete all requirements by July 13, 2026. Students are strongly encouraged to begin the application process early, as completing all required forms and documentation can take several weeks.
Promise 2026 Road Show
Indian River State College is bringing the Promise Program directly to students through the 2026 Promise Program Road Show, visiting high schools across the Treasure Coast throughout January. The Road Show will visit Martin County High School, Sebastian River High School, Indiantown High School, Indian River Charter High School, Vero Beach High School, Okeechobee High School, Jensen Beach High School, St Lucie West Centennial, Fort Pierce Central High School, South Fork High School, John Carroll High School, Clark Advanced Learning Center, Indian River Charter High School, and Somerset between January 8-29, 2026. Students can get information, ask questions, and receive application assistance during these campus visits.
Learn More
Prospective students and families are invited to watch a recorded information session to learn more about the Promise Program, eligibility requirements, application process, and student success resources.
- Watch recorded sessions: irsc.edu/admissions/promise
- Sign up for program updates: irsc.edu/admissions/promise
Important Information
While the Promise Program covers tuition, students should budget for additional college expenses including fees, books, supplies, technology, transportation, and living costs. Promise students must maintain satisfactory academic progress and complete renewal requirements each year to continue receiving funding.
Program Funding and Economic Impact
The Promise Program is funded through generous donor philanthropy and unrestricted investment proceeds managed by the Indian River State College Foundation. The program uses a “last dollar” funding model, covering any tuition costs remaining after financial aid and scholarships are applied.
By enabling more students to earn degrees in high-demand fields, the program helps develop a skilled workforce for the Treasure Coast region while allowing graduates to build careers without student debt.
About Indian River State College
Indian River State College serves students across Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee, and St. Lucie counties, offering associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and workforce training programs. The College is committed to providing accessible, affordable higher education to the Treasure Coast region.
Contact Information
For more information:
- Website: irsc.edu/admissions/promise
- Email: promise@irsc.edu
- Phone: 772-462-4772
- Toll-Free: 1-866-792-4772
Para información en español:
- Email: promise@irsc.edu
- Teléfono: 772-462-4772
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January 8, 2026