INDIANAPOLIS (November 8, 2012) – The registration deadline for the 10th year of the 500 Festival and Indianapolis 500^® Education Program, presented by Indiana University Health is November 30, 2012. So far, more than 23,000 students are signed up to learn more about the 500 Festival and the Indianapolis 500^®.  To date, 359 schools from 84 counties have registered; both are record-breaking numbers for the Program.

The Education Program strives to educate and foster creativity in Hoosier fourth-grade students by using the historical, social and economic significances of the 500 Festival, Indianapolis 500^® and the thriving motorsports industry of Indiana in the curriculum.  This program is packed with information including an Academic Standard-based curriculum, teacher materials, student reading materials, a companion DVD and the opportunity for an educational Study Trip to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway^® in April and May. Through the support of its sponsors, the program is offered free to students, teachers and their schools.

The Study Trips are used to not only “test” what the students learn through the in-class curriculum, but also enhance their learning experience with interactive pieces. In 2012, in correlation with IU Health’s presenting sponsorship, a “Health & Nutrition Station” was added featuring a video of IndyCar driver James Hinchcliffe teaching students what drivers do to stay fit and healthy.

Last year nearly 21,000 Indiana fourth graders participated in the award-winning program, more than 176,000 have participated since its inception in 2004. Teachers interested in having their students participate can register at www.500festival.com.

The 500 Festival and Indianapolis 500^® Education Program, presented by Indiana University Health is sponsored by the 500 Festival, the 500 Festival Foundation, Indianapolis Motor Speedway^®, Indiana University Health, Methodist Health Foundation,  AAA Travel, the American Dairy Association of Indiana, Inc., BKD, LLP and the IZOD IndyCar Series^®.

For additional information, please call (317) 614-6129 or visit www.500festival.com.

The mission of the 500 Festival is to advocate and celebrate the spirit, heritage and legacy of the Indianapolis 500®. Through social, cultural and educational events and programs, the 500 Festival enhances the quality of life for all citizens of our communities.

The 500 Festival, a not-for-profit volunteer organization, was created in 1957 to organize civic events celebrating the greatest race in the world. Over the past 56 years, the 500 Festival has grown to become one of the largest festivals in the nation.

Last year, more than 500,000 Hoosiers and visitors participated in nearly 50 events and programs throughout the month of May. Whether they were athletes running the Mini-Marathon, fourth grade students participating in the Education Program, families enjoying the state’s largest festival for kids or spectators being dazzled by one of the nation’s premier parades, they were there, celebrating the legacy.                                                                           

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