Huntington, IN - At the March 10, 2025, Huntington County Community Schools Public Work Session, the Viking Success Academy took center stage as educators, students, and administrators shared updates on the program’s impact. The discussion, led by Director of Secondary Education Chuck Brimbury, Viking Success Coordinator Michelle Brimbury, Viking Success Instructors John Malone and Taylor Boxell, and Viking Success students Christen Slusser and Lenon Deter, highlighted the academy’s mission to provide students with the resources and support they need to succeed.
The Viking Success Academy was established as a targeted intervention for high school students significantly behind in credits. The program focuses on relationship-building, academic recovery, and personal growth, creating an environment where students who once struggled now find hope and motivation to graduate.
“The students we work with are incredible,” said Michelle Brimbury. “We’ve had seven seniors officially graduate so far this year, and many more are on track to do the same. Our team works tirelessly to support them, and it’s amazing to see their progress.”
Student Success Stories
A defining moment of the presentation came when students shared their personal journeys. Christen Slusser, a Viking Success Academy student, recounted her experience of overcoming academic obstacles.
“At the end of my junior year, I was told I only had 11 credits and wouldn’t be able to graduate with my class,” said Slusser. “That moment was devastating, but then I joined the Viking Success Academy. With the support of my teachers and the encouragement of my classmates, I’ve been able to catch up. Now, I’m on track to graduate. This program truly saved my future.”
Lenon Deter echoed similar sentiments, expressing gratitude for the unwavering support of the instructors.
“The biggest thing is that they believe in us, even when we don’t believe in ourselves,” Deter said. “It’s not just about schoolwork – it’s about knowing we have people in our corner who won’t let us fail.”
A Commitment to Student Achievement
Viking Success instructors John Malone and Taylor Boxell emphasized the importance of mentorship and accountability in helping students stay on course.
“When we first meet students, many of them have lost hope,” Malone shared. “They’ve faced hardships that most of us can’t imagine. But once they realize we’re here to help, they start to push forward. We’ve seen students make up over 20 credits in a short time – something they never thought possible.”
Boxell added that while encouragement is key, holding students accountable is equally important.
“Sometimes, they need a push in the right direction,” he said. “We coach them, challenge them, and most importantly, remind them that they are capable. Once they buy in, there’s no stopping them.”
A Program That Changes Lives
Superintendent John Trout commended the Viking Success Academy for its profound impact on students’ lives.
“This program represents what education should be – meeting students where they are and giving them the tools to succeed,” Trout stated. “Seeing students walk across the stage at graduation, knowing how far they’ve come, is a testament to the dedication of the Viking Success team.”
With a strong foundation of support, structure, and belief in student potential, the Viking Success Academy continues to transform the futures of Huntington North High School students, proving that with the right guidance, every student can find their path to success.