[5] Originally built in 1886 in the town of Broad Ripple, the school started with seven students.

Two years later, the Center for Humanities became the second magnet program offered at Broad Ripple High School.

The Center for Performing & Visual Arts and Center for Humanities at Broad Ripple High School offered students the opportunity for specialized study in the areas of arts and humanities.

Both magnet programs provided college preparatory and individualized instruction designed to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to compete and succeed as productive citizens.

Enrollment reached its peak at 2,500 in 1995 after the closure of Washington and Howe high schools in Indianapolis.