Hammond Area Career Center

Hammond Academy of Science and Technology (HAST) is at 33 Muenich Court in Hammond. It is a science and technology academy, not a private special-education school. Classes use hands-on, project-based learning, including Project Lead the Way. Staff groups on the official site cover grades 6 through 12. The stated mission is a safe setting where students are known, supported, and challenged. Work is described as rigorous, hands-on, and collaborative, with a focus on college, career, and civic life. Photos on the mission page include a sixth-grade class and PLTW labs. The academy is listed on Indiana GPS. It is not a therapeutic campus and does not operate a young-adult 18-22 program. Athletics are part of student life alongside the STEM coursework.

Morning Star Academy is a Christian school and childcare ministry of Life Point Church in Hammond. The early childhood program has served Northwest Indiana families since fall 2010 and enrolls children from 6 weeks through preschool. The school also posts kindergarten through grade 8 academics. Preschool days include Bible integrated across subjects, age-appropriate academic work, nature walks, monthly fire drills, and two lockdown drills. Kindergarten is a full-day class covering phonics-based reading, math, science, Spanish, sign language, handwriting and cursive, music, and art. Elementary grades 1-6 center on phonics, mathematics, grammar, spelling, science, history, geography, STEM, and penmanship. Grades 7-8 add language arts, reading, mathematics, science, social studies, Bible, computer skills, and fine arts. The school points families to the Indiana Choice Scholarship, which may cover up to 100 percent of tuition and fees for eligible students, plus in-house grants. An On My Way Pre-K link is also posted. Classes are described as small-group settings.

The Crossing is a transformative educational institution dedicated to empowering students who face challenges in traditional learning environments. Founded in 2003 by Rob Staley, a former principal passionate about making a difference, The Crossing serves a diverse student body, including those with language-based learning disabilities and twice-exceptional learners. With a core mission focused on fostering academic success, job readiness, and faith-based character development, the school offers tailored programs that blend hands-on learning with essential life skills training. Students benefit from an average teacher-to-student ratio of 1:10, allowing for personalized attention that enhances their educational experience. The curriculum includes innovative Career Pathway Programs designed to provide practical education and real-world job training opportunities. Additionally, the Faith-Based Character Education program promotes community and personal growth through daily Family Time and optional God-Talk sessions, encouraging students to explore their faith in a supportive environment. What sets The Crossing apart is its commitment to creating a welcoming and safe atmosphere where every student feels a sense of belonging. This focus on nurturing relationships extends beyond academics; staff actively engage with students during evenings and weekends, fostering unity and support within the community. Through its unique blend of education, job training, and character development rooted in faith, The Crossing stands out as a beacon of hope for struggling students seeking a fresh start on their journey toward becoming contributing members of society.