INGDA’s Virtual CCMR Day Connected Students to Career and College Opportunities Across Indiana 

CCMR Day – Explore how INGDA is empowering students through virtual learning and real-world career readiness. 

In March, Indiana Gateway Digital Academy (INGDA) hosted its annual College, Career, and Military Readiness Day (CCMR Day), an entirely virtual event designed to bridge the gap between online education and real-world opportunities. More than 3,000 high school students from across the state were invited to the event, which featured representatives from colleges, businesses, and military organizations using the new K12 Zone platform. 

How INDGA Prepares Students with CCMR Day 

The event was part of INGDA’s continued effort to prepare students for life beyond graduation by connecting them with meaningful career and postsecondary pathways. With a strong focus on career readiness, INGDA’s virtual CCMR Day gave students access to 15 career-focused pathways—including health sciences, business, engineering, agriculture, hospitality and tourism, and information technology. Throughout the event, students had the chance to explore enrollment, enlistment, and employment opportunities. 

“Events like this are a powerful extension of what we do daily at INGDA,” said Julie Brauser, Director of Career and Technical Education. “We’re not just educating students—we’re guiding them toward confident futures. Giving them access to real-world resources in a virtual format ensures every student has a chance to succeed, no matter where they live or what they want to pursue.” 

Jacki Spainhour, Career Readiness and Employability (CRE) Coordinator emphasized the importance of collaboration between schools and employers in today’s fast-changing economy. “Our students are highly capable, tech-savvy, and eager to contribute,” Spainhour said. “When we connect them with industry leaders, we’re creating pathways for sustainable success—not just for the students, but for the future of Indiana’s workforce.” 

The event welcomed dozens of exhibitors who engaged with students through virtual booths, one-on-one conversations, and interactive career presentations—presentations that enabled local partners to connect directly with students. 

“What a neat fair! I’ve been part of multiple virtual college fairs that aimed to have the same effect as doing it in person, but this one really nailed it,” shared Sara Barker, Senior Assistant Director of Admissions, Ball State University. “I got to have the same quality conversations with students as I would if they were standing right in front of me. Ball State was happy to take part!” 

“The College, Career & Military Readiness Day held by the Indiana Gateway Digital Academy was a revolutionary way to reach out to any and all students that are either taking online classes or are unable to attend a physical career fair, and it helps bring awareness to all these great organizations and gives these students a chance to visualize and prepare for their future,” shared Nicholas Golembieski, Navy Representative/Career Coordinator. “Especially these days where technology is ever-changing, hosting a virtual career fair is something a lot more schools, organizations, and other business entities should start thinking about. As a military recruiter, being given the chance to have a more widespread influence is very important to give information that could potentially change these student’s lives for the better!”  

For many students, the event helped them gain clarity and confidence about their goals for the future. 

By hosting CCMR Day in a fully virtual environment, INGDA continues to lead the way in online public education—creating opportunities that are accessible, engaging, and impactful for students statewide. 

If you’re searching for an academic setting that helps prepare your student for life after graduation, enroll in INGDA today!  

Indiana Gateway Digital Academy (INGDA) is a full-time, tuition-free online public school offering a personalized learning experience for K-12 students statewide. INGDA specializes in flexible education solutions for students with unique needs, including military-connected families and those seeking an individualized academic path. With K12’s proven curriculum and dedicated teachers, INGDA provides the tools and support necessary for students to thrive. Learn more at ingda.k12.com.