Tindley Stories

Kuymaine Kelly, a senior at Charles A. Tindley Accelerated School, has spent the past three years heavily involved in STEM through FIRST Robotics Competition as a member of Team 6721.

Through robotics, he has helped build, wire, and operate robots while also leading outreach efforts focused on expanding STEM awareness in the community. One of his proudest accomplishments was being part of Team 6721 when they earned the FIRST Impact Award.

“Tindley taught me discipline, accountability, and how to stay consistent even when things get difficult,” Kuymaine shared.

Balancing school, work, robotics, and major projects taught him resilience, teamwork, and problem-solving skills that he plans to carry into college and a future career in computer engineering.

Looking ahead, Kuymaine hopes to continue creating opportunities for students from under-resourced communities to explore STEM through mentorship, outreach, and hands-on learning experiences.

Aaron Brown, an eleventh-grade student at Tindley Accelerated Schools, has spent his high school years growing both academically and personally while participating in band as a trumpet player.

Through opportunities like dual credit coursework and SAT preparation, Aaron says Tindley has helped prepare him for college and future academic success.

“My English class has had me write essays in the form I will have to use in college,” Aaron shared. One of the most meaningful influences during his time at Tindley has been Mr. Barnett, who encouraged him to become more confident speaking in front of others. “He helped me talk more often by having me speak at one of our concerts,” Aaron said.

For Aaron, learning to speak up and communicate more confidently has been one of his biggest personal accomplishments.

“When I first came to Tindley, I did not speak often. Now I still don’t speak often, but I do more than I used to.”

After graduation, Aaron plans to attend a college in Indiana. While he is still exploring future career paths, he is currently considering majoring in chemistry while continuing to build toward his future goals.

Kollin Miller, a 2018 graduate of Tindley Accelerated Schools, continues to combine creativity, community, and entrepreneurship in both his career and personal mission.

After graduating from Ball State University in 2024, Kollin began working as an instructor at the Indianapolis Art Center while also serving as a caretaker for the Center for Ventures of Living. In addition, he is the cofounder of the Kulture Shock brand, which he continues to grow and expand through art, design, and creative expression.

Reflecting on his time at Tindley, Kollin says the school helped spark many of the ideas and aspirations that continue to shape his future today.

“Tindley instructors served as that spark,” he shared.

One of the most meaningful influences during his time at Tindley was art teacher Tania Wineglass, who encouraged him to continue growing as both an artist and creative thinker. “She gave me the boost necessary to constantly evolve in my work as an experimenter and draftsman,” Kollin said. “She still continues to guide me in my artistic journey today.” Kollin also credits mentors including Ryan Little, David Smock, and Rochelle Sayles for helping shape his perspective and growth throughout high school.

One of the most impactful experiences during his time at Tindley was completing his Capstone project. Initially overwhelmed by the process, Kollin found support through his parents, peers, teachers, and friends who helped him bring the project to life.

“That experience taught me what it truly means to build something as a community,” he shared.

While opportunities for extracurricular involvement were more limited at the time, Kollin eventually became involved in both the art club and yearbook club during his senior year, further strengthening his connection to the school community.

Today, Kollin’s goals continue to evolve, but they remain rooted in creativity, mental wellness, curiosity, and community impact.

He hopes to eventually create an art-centered community space where people can not only create, but also feel supported and heard. He is also developing creative projects including a future YouTube channel, KlainemTalks, and expanding his clothing brand.

Long term, Kollin hopes to continue traveling, learning, building his brand, and encouraging others to embrace creativity, curiosity, and self-expression.

“I want to stay curious.”

Justus Johnson, a 2025 graduate of Tindley Accelerated Schools, is already ahead in his college journey.

Now a student at Mount St. Joseph University, Justus is studying Business Marketing while continuing his football career. As he completes his first year, he has already achieved academic sophomore status, thanks to the college credits he earned during high school. This early progress has positioned him to graduate ahead of schedule and accelerate toward his long-term goals.

During his time at Tindley, Justus stood out both on the field and in the classroom. As a dedicated student-athlete and active participant in the Y Achievers program, he embraced the rigor and expectations that prepared him for success beyond high school. He credits much of his growth to the educators and mentors who supported him along the way. Teachers like Mrs. Ana and Ms. Tylar encouraged him to stay disciplined and strive for excellence, while Coach Graham helped shape his work ethic and mindset both on and off the field.

One of Justus’s most important lessons was learning consistency. Balancing academics and athletics required focus year-round, and by his final two years at Tindley, he committed to maintaining that discipline in all areas of his life.

Looking ahead, Justus plans to build a career in real estate. His goal is to become a real estate agent and eventually own rental properties as part of his own business. He is currently exploring opportunities in both Indianapolis and Cincinnati, with long-term plans to expand into larger, high-growth markets.

Justus’s journey reflects the power of early college preparation, strong mentorship, and a commitment to excellence—values that continue to shape Tindley scholars long after graduation.

Trebor attended Tindley from middle through high school, where he learned to balance academics, sports, and self-confidence. His years with the Tindley Boys Basketball team helped form lifelong friendships and leadership skills that continue to shape him.

Influential educators like Mr. Jones, Dr. Muhammad, and Professor McGeady deepened his love for learning—combining math, culture, and writing in powerful, lasting ways.

Today, Trebor works at Fanatics, helping pro and college athletes grow their personal brands and expand their impact beyond the game.

Isaiah took full advantage of Tindley’s extracurricular offerings—from sports to performing arts—and found his voice on stage thanks to the encouragement of Mr. Hawks, a teacher who empowered him to lead creatively and authentically.

Tindley instilled in him the discipline, leadership, and academic drive that continue to serve him today. He now works in the AV/IT industry and is also deeply engaged in ministry and community service.