Good morning, Muncie.

Indiana saw its largest increase in IREAD scores for third graders—87.3% statewide proficiency with over 73,500 passing—and state officials will release retention data on Oct 1 to show how many students will repeat a grade under the new law.

Ball State University received a $387,000 grant to launch the Cultivating Civic Character for the Common Good project and start a new civic studies minor in Fall—an effort that will engage over 9,000 students, 375 faculty and 120 staff while strengthening local partnerships.

The three-year initiative will guide working groups to build a curriculum focused on ethics and leadership for a diverse democracy.

Ball State University’s Teachers College and Muncie Community Schools have launched a Leadership Pipeline program to help current teachers become administrators by offering a fully online M.A.E. with a 50% tuition reduction and added incentives.

The program kicks off with an orientation—meet and greet from 5 to 6 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 15 at Northside Middle School Cafeteria.

Wes-Del head coach Matt Nuckols gave a preseason interview discussing the Warriors’ plans for the upcoming 2025 season—he detailed what the team hopes to achieve as they prepare for new challenges.

Ball State football is preparing for the season with a new group of wide receivers as returning players Ty Robinson and Qian Magwood and new transfer Eric Weatherly are expected to be key targets.

The team will open its season on Saturday, Aug. 30 — playing an in-state game at Purdue as it aims to turn around last year's 3-9 record.

Wes-Del football players Brock Nauman and Carter Flynn spoke in a preseason interview ahead of the Warriors' 2025 season—both expressed optimism as they prepared for upcoming games.

ICED TEA Cluster Dog Shows

8 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Delaware County Fairgrounds — Free entry — Enjoy four days of AKC-sanctioned dog shows and thrilling dock diving competitions for dog lovers of all ages.

Muncie Makers Market - Third Thursdays

5-8 p.m. — Madjax Makerforce — Free admission — Explore a local night market filled with handmade goods, live activities, and great food in a community-focused environment.

Mary's Miles 5K Fun Run

8 AM – 12 PM — Westside Park — Fundraiser entry — Enjoy a morning run while supporting holistic recovery in the community.

Nick Dittmeier & the Sawdusters Live

7 PM – 1 AM — Elm Street Brewing Company — Check out this progressive roots band from Southern Indiana as they perform live.

Indiana Skyward User Group Conference 2025

8 AM — Horizon Convention Center — $190 registration — Attend the annual gathering for Skyward users and enjoy informative sessions and networking opportunities.