INDIANAPOLIS (November 12, 2013) – The registration deadline for the 11th year of the 500 Festival and Indianapolis 500^® Education Program, presented by Indiana University Health is November 29, 2013. So far, nearly 25,000 students are signed up to learn more about the 500 Festival and the Indianapolis 500^®.  To date, 349 schools from 82 counties have registered.

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 24,000 Indiana fourth graders participated in the award-winning program, more than 200,000 have participated since its inception in 2004. Teachers interested in having their students participate can register at www.500festival.com, under the Programs tab.

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, Regions, AAA Travel, the American Dairy Association of Indiana, Inc., BKD, LLP and the IndyCar Series^®.