Discover the Largest High School in Indiana (And Notable Alums)

Attending a large suburban high school comes with both advantages and disadvantages. On the positive side, large schools offer a broad range of academic programs, extracurricular activities, and sports teams, allowing students to explore their interests and passions. They have access to state-of-the-art facilities, advanced technology, and experienced teachers. On the flip side, the school’s sheer size can lead to a sense of anonymity and disconnection for some students. Navigating such a large institution can be overwhelming, and students may find it challenging to build close relationships. But as we discover at the largest high school in Indiana, an extra-large student body can overcome such challenges. So, lace up your hiking boots to explore the 55-acre (22-hectare) campus of Carmel High and meet some of its notable alums.

Carmel High School at a Glance

Location, Location, Location!

Carmel High School is located in Carmel, Indiana, which is located in Hamilton County, which is located just North of Indianapolis. Hamilton County is renowned for its excellent schools, low crime rate, and numerous recreational opportunities. Carmel has experienced significant population growth in recent years. From approx. 30k residents in 1990, the town had swelled to just over 100k by 2020. This growth is due to the city’s reputation for safety, well-maintained neighborhoods, and thriving businesses. The Carmel Clay School District consistently ranks among the top-performing school systems in the state. Carmel offers an extensive park system, providing residents with numerous green spaces, walking trails, sports facilities, and recreational programs. The Monon Trail, a popular multi-use trail, runs through the heart of the city, connecting it to adjacent communities. The city’s economy is diverse and includes healthcare, technology, and finance.

Carmel High School

Carmel High School is a four-year public high school located in Carmel, Indiana. It is the largest high school in the state. The student body numbers approximately 5300. The school has a reputation for strong academics, successful athletics, and diverse extracurricular activities. It has consistently ranked among the top high schools in Indiana as well as the United States due to its academic achievements and commitment to providing students with a well-rounded education. The doors to Carmel High School first opened in 1958. In the intervening years, the campus has gone through a number of expansions and renovations. The well-maintained facilities include state-of-the-art classrooms, a large library, multiple sports fields and performing arts venues, an Esports room, a cafe, and an auto shop. For starters. Carmel High School also boasts a planetarium, professional-grade radio and television studios, two indoor pools, and three full-time nurses on staff. Among other things.

Academics

Carmel High School offers a wide range of academic courses, including honors, Advanced Placement (AP), and International Baccalaureate (IB) classes. The school is known for its rigorous curriculum, high academic standards, and dedicated teaching staff. Carmel High School benefits from a supportive community that actively participates in school events and fundraisers. The involvement of parents, alumni, and local businesses contributes to the overall success and affluence of the school. Carmel High has computer labs, science labs, and language labs. Carmel High offers its students the option of earning an International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma. IB diplomas are recognized globally, and allow students to more easily matriculate to colleges and universities outside of the U.S.

Carmel High also appreciates and embraces the artistic side of academics, with facilities and classes designed for success in the arts. The Performing and Visual Arts Departments offer classes ranging from jazz ensembles to fiber arts classes – and practically anything you can imagine. Ceramics, Digital Design, and Painting are among the 28 elective courses offered.

Athletics

Athletics: Carmel High School’s athletic programs are highly competitive and have achieved considerable success in a variety of sports, winning an astounding 187 state championships. The school competes in the Indiana High School Athletic Association (IHSAA). The Carmel Boys’ basketball team brought home state championships in 2019 and 2021, and the Carmel girls’ swim team won its 37th consecutive state championship in 2023. The Carmel High School Sports Complex boasts a 10,000-seat stadium, a regulation high school baseball field, and two softball fields. The Eric Clark Athletic Center has two regulation hardwood basketball courts, two swimming pools, and a state-of-the-art fitness center/weight room. The school’s colors are blue and gold. Their mascot is the greyhound.

Extracurriculars

Extracurricular Activities: The school provides students with a diverse selection of extracurricular activities to cater to various interests and talents. These include clubs, performing arts groups, community service initiatives, and academic organizations. Again, if you can imagine it, this school has it covered. From the African History and Culture Club and Build a Computer Club to Cyber Security Club and Science Olympiad, Carmel High offers something for everyone.

Where is Carmel High School Located on a Map?

Carmel High School is located at 520 E Main St, in Carmel. It can be accessed by the Keystone Parkway and is next to Beechmont Drive. Just down the street from the Museum of Miniature Houses and across from the Carmel Clay Public Library and the Clay Montessori School.

Notable Alums

When one is fortunate enough to attend a well-funded, well-appointed high school with state-of-the-art facilities, this individual is undoubtedly gifted a head start on the path to success and fame. While talent and determination are crucial factors in achieving greatness, having access to superior resources and opportunities can accelerate the journey. In such circumstances, individuals are better equipped to explore their passions, receive a top-notch education, and make connections. However, it’s essential to recognize that privilege alone does not guarantee success; it must be accompanied by talent, dedication, and hard work.

Notable Alumni

• Ted Allen – Allen graduated from Carmel in 1983. He is a restaurant critic and Emmy Award-winning television personality. He has appeared on a number of television shows including Chopped! and Queer Eye.
• Jeff Anderson – Anderson, a 1980 graduate of Carmel, plays the tuba with the San Fransisco Symphony. He is also an instructor at the San Fransisco Conservatory of Music.
• Rich Balchan – Balchan is a 2010 Carmel grad. He is a professional soccer player. He is a defender.
• Steve Inskeep – Inskeep graduated from Carmel in 1986. He has worked for National Public Radio (NPR) since 1996. He initially hosted All Things Considered. He then went on to helm Morning Edition.
• Drew Kibler – Kiebler, an Olympic swimmer is a 2018 graduate of Carmel High School. He has a hearing impairment. He wears aids outside of the pool. He uses visual cues when he is at a meet. Kiebler participated in the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, Japan. Though he didn’t bring home a medal, he was proud to be one of the first Olympic swimmers from Carmel, Indiana, nonetheless.
• Jake Lloyd – Lloyd who portrayed the young Anakin Skywalker in The Phantom Menace graduated from Carmel in 2007. Lloyd has since retired from acting.
• Jake Mitchell – A 2019 graduate of Carmel, Mitchell is an Olympic swimmer who participated in the 2020 Summer Games in Toyko, Japan.
• Tommy O’Haver – O’Haver is a screenwriter and film director who graduated from Carmel in 1986.
• Sage Steele – Steele is a 1990 graduate of Carmel High. She is a television personality, notable as a sports broadcaster.
• Danielle Trotta – Trotta is a 1999 Carmel graduate. As of 2023, she covers auto racing for Sirius XM radio.
• Todd Young – Young, a former United States Representative, graduated from Carmel in 1990. He was in office from 2011-2017.