Dare to Be Different" Fashion with a Purpose

02/10/2026

02/09/2026

Scholarship Applications Available Now!

09/28/2025

09/17/2025

The Jewelry is here!!!

The 2026 DTBD Scholarship Fundraising Campaigns has officially begun!

DTBD Initiative want to thank Jackie Serafin of JBloom and everyone who supported this fundraiser.

More info about the JBloom Jewelry Fundraiser, contact Jackie Serafin/ facebook.

09/09/2025

Meet Raven Osborne: The Teen Who Graduated College Before High School 🎓✨

At just 18 years old, Raven Osborne made history in her hometown of Gary, Indiana. Two weeks before walking across the stage as her high school’s valedictorian, Raven had already earned her college degree — and she did it without paying a single dime.

Thanks to 21st Century Charter School’s unique program, Raven began taking college courses as early as 9th grade. Her hard work and determination paid off when she officially graduated from Purdue University Northwest, becoming a full-fledged college graduate before even receiving her high school diploma.

Her story is a powerful reminder that with opportunity, discipline, and vision, young people can break barriers and redefine what’s possible. Raven didn’t just dream big — she achieved big.

09/09/2025

A group of black ballerinas in Texas during a fierce photoshoot. Best wishes to the little stars ❤️💯❤️

09/09/2025

At just 14 years old, Carson Huey‑You made history as the youngest person to ever graduate college in Texas and his mom couldn't hold back tears.

Carson Huey-You received his diploma along with more than 2,000 other students at Texas Christian University on Saturday, but his academic tale was a bit different: At just 14, he became the youngest person ever to receive a bachelor’s degree at the private college.
Show him some love. ❤️
His story is in the comments ⬇️👇

08/21/2025

New Scholarship Opportunity!

FOR IIMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 20, 2025



Gary Horace Mann Alum, Track Star and Entrepreneur Expands Annual Backpack Donation to GCSC and Launches New Scholarship for West Side Leadership Academy Students


(Gary, IND) –Horace Mann High School graduate and long-time entrepreneur Eric Smoot has expanded his long-standing tradition of donating backpacks and school supplies to local students. This year, Smoot provided 150 backpacks filled with supplies to each of the Gary Community School Corporation’s five elementary schools, a major expansion from his annual donations to Beveridge Elementary School solely.

Smoot, a former three-time state track champion and high school All-American, says his own story drives him to give back.

“I wouldn’t be the man I am today without the people who poured into me,” said Smoot, now the owner of Redefined Fitness located in Wilmette, IL. “This is about making sure kids in Gary know they’re supported, too.”

In addition to the backpack drive, Smoot and his former Horace Mann track teammates have launched a new scholarship in honor of their late coach, Roosevelt “Chief” Pulliam. The scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate leadership, perseverance, and service—the same qualities Pulliam instilled in his athletes.

The first $2,000 scholarship was awarded to KeRon Maxey, a 2025 graduate of West Side Leadership Academy at a recent school board meeting.

Superintendent Dr. Yvonne Stokes called Smoot’s efforts “a powerful example of giving back and investing in the next generation of Gary students.”

Smoot intends to stay involved with GCSC students by raising more funds for programs and speaking to youth at school events.

For the latest district news, please visit garyschools.org.



# # #

Pictured l-r
Lois Wilkins (niece of Roosevelt Pulliam), Smoot, Maxey, West Side Leadership Academy Principal Carl Scott and Assistant Principal Earl Smith, III

08/21/2025

Remain In Prayer For our Children, our Youth, The Parents ,Mentors, Teachers and the entire School Administration.