Broad Ripple High School has been part of the local community since opening in 1886 when seven students were enrolled. (The editor's great grandfather graduated around 1897). The school joined the Indianapolis Public Schools system in 1923 when the town of Broad Ripple was annexed into Indianapolis. It is currently named Broad Ripple Magnet High School.

BRMHS Principal John Akers' career has come full circle in his return to the school.

(Then IPS Superintendent) "Dr. Eugene White said, 'We're going to make you Principal of Broad Ripple High School.' Had he given me the choice of any school, I would have picked Broad Ripple. I was really glad that he showed the faith and confidence in me to do the job because it was like coming home where I started my career as a student teacher," he recalled.

Akers described his educational background: "I have a Bachelor's degree from Indiana University in Secondary Education (English) and a Master's degree from Butler University's School of Administration and Supervision Experiential Program for Preparing School Principals (EPPSP). Many IPS principals have completed this curriculum."

"I began as a student teacher at Broad Ripple in 1997. My supervising teacher retired in December of 1997 and Jim Ray, the English department head, called and asked me if I wanted to take over. The rest is history. I then went to George Washington Community School in July of 2002 where I was the head football coach for the next four years. After receiving my graduate degree, I began an administration career as Academic Dean at Arlington High School for two years, then as Vice Principal at Emma Donnan Middle School for one year and later as Vice Principal at Thomas Carr Howe Community School for three years. Dr. Eugene White named me to become principal at Broad Ripple in March of 2012. I am currently in my second year," he added.

Akers mentioned his short- and long-term goals for BRMHS: "Really, they all develop into long-term goals, but have to start as short-term. Develop teacher leaders. Show annual student growth on testing, not just simply passing a test. Pushing those who are proficient on end-of-course exams through more rigorous course work. Strengthen the Humanities program to attract local families and become a model performing/visual arts/media careers school."

The Center for Performing & Visual Arts was created within BRHS in 1976 as an inaugural magnet program with the Center for Humanities that followed in 1978. Each of these Magnet curriculums offers students specialized college preparatory and individual instruction.

Many arts events are scheduled throughout the year with recent Nutcracker musical performances in BRMHS' Gene R. Poston auditorium on December 5th.

Gene R. Poston became the school's Director of Choral Activities in 1954. In 1960, he was appointed Chairman of the Music Department and Director of Productions. He moved on to become Director of Choral Activities at Ball State University in 1980 and retired in 1982. In 2007, BRHS Golden Singers alumni established the Gene R. Poston Legacy Foundation to enhance music education and commemorate his impact on students. In August of 2011, the Indianapolis School Board voted unanimously to rename the school's auditorium in his honor. BRHS' history can be read at: http://417.ips.k12.in.us/category/broad-ripple-high-school-history/.

Reflecting on the rewards of being a lifelong educator, Akers said, "I don't think I can point to one specific thing. Many of our kids (BRMHS and Indianapolis Public Schools) come from less than desirable home environments. Some come from very solid home environments. Regardless of where they come from, they really do want to succeed. They want to make those of us whose lives they touch proud of them. The thing is, they don't need to do anything special to make me proud of them. I am proud of them when they do things no one believes they can do. I am proud of them when I see them helping a fellow classmate. I am proud of them for when they admit they did not give their all. I am proud of them for recognizing they can always be better. I can't see myself doing anything else anywhere else, but with the students and families of IPS."

Distinguished BRHS alumni include architect Michael Graves (IAC, Thomson headquarters Indy, Disney Dolphin and Swan hotels, etc.), former Marion County Prosecutor and Indianapolis Mayor Stephen Goldsmith, late night talk show host David Letterman, Civil Rights Attorney Judith Kammin Albietz, Finish Line CEO Alan H. Cohen, attorney Marilyn (Tucker) Quayle, actor and partner at Brugge Brasserie Abe Benrubi, former NFL defensive end and Purdue University All-American football player Rosevelt Colvin and his wife, Tiffany, owner of SweeTies, Indiana Pacers guard George Hill, Broad Ripple Gazette publisher Alan Hague and his son, John, who is assistant band director. Each of them and countless others not mentioned here continue to make a lasting impact in the communities where they live and work.

BRMHS Principal Mike Akers is currently writing his own chapter in the school's history as he and the school personnel help prepare students for tomorrow.