Major Projects & Grants (MPG), a department of CIESC, oversees major projects and grants focused on supporting education initiatives across the state of Indiana.
Current Projects
As the project management arm of CIESC, MPG helps ensure the execution of major projects, which include:
Teacher Industry Experiences in Indiana (TIE-IN)
The CIESC Major Projects and Grants team leads the development and execution of TIE-IN, connecting educators with immersive industry experiences, 1:1 externships, and formal coursework opportunities to bridge classrooms and careers. By facilitating partnerships and crafting dynamic learning opportunities, we empower educators to bring real-world STEM and workforce insights to students. Learn more about TIE-IN.
STEM Ecosystem
As a driving force behind Indiana’s STEM Ecosystem, the CIESC Major Projects and Grants team collaborates with educators, industry leaders, and community partners to expand STEM opportunities statewide. Our team fosters innovation through strategic partnerships and resource development, supporting educators in preparing students for future success. Discover the STEM Ecosystem and reach out to Ryan Murray for more information.
Indiana Literacy Cadre
The CIESC Major Projects and Grants team plays a pivotal role in strengthening literacy across Indiana by supporting the Indiana Literacy Cadre through our Training Support Specialists team. They partner with Cadre schools and districts to improve literacy outcomes and ensure every student has the tools to succeed through Science of Reading based literacy instruction and Student-Centered Coaching. Visit the Indiana Literacy Cadre website.
Early Childhood Education Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Program
Through thoughtful planning and collaboration with the Indiana Department of Education Kindergarten Readiness team, the CIESC Major Projects and Grants team serves as the administrator for the implementation of Indiana’s Early Childhood Education Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Program. Our efforts focus on young adult workforce development and training, connecting with district leadership at schools, districts, and career centers, and creating a pipeline of highly skilled early care and education teachers. Learn more about the apprenticeship program.
Kindergarten Transition Model Online Course Development
The CIESC Major Projects and Grants team is leading the development of a comprehensive online course launching in February 2025 to support early learning providers in the transition of early learners to kindergarten. By combining expert insights and evidence-based practices, we provide educators with tools to improve readiness and foster long-term academic success. Look for this course on the Indiana Learning Lab in early 2025.
Kindergarten Transition Model SOP Pilot Development
The CIESC Major Projects and Grants team is leading the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to support kindergarten transitions. We’re working closely with pilot districts, enrolling participants in January 2025, to test and refine these procedures for widespread impact. Contact Lena Darnay [ldarnay@ciesc.org] to learn more about participating in this groundbreaking initiative.
Project & Grant Partners
Our work would not be possible without the critical support of our project and grant partners. Meet the organizations behind the initiatives above.
Meet Our Team
We are a team of dedicated, process-oriented, and innovative professionals who are passionate about supporting educational initiatives that enhance academic achievement in Indiana.
LENA DARNAY
Jessica Martin
Ryan Murray
Charlotte Shoulders
Janet Antle
Lynn Bowman
Beth Brent
Christy White
Erin Brown
Jane Ann Owen
KAREN SMITH
Karen Sullivan
Kayla Hinton
Lindsey Acton
Natasha Roe
Want to Work with Our Team?
Have a project that we could help support? Reach out to start a conversation.