The AACI and the Indianapolis Urban League Further Question Devasting Public Education Legislation and Education Reformers

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Press Release
Tuesday, February 18, 2025

 African American Coalition of Indianapolis further questions devastating public education legislation and education reformers

Indianapolis, IN (Tuesday, February 18, 2025) – The African American Coalition of Indianapolis (AACI) is now directing questions of concern to education reformers as legislation that would dismantle Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) moves forward at the statehouse. Previously the AACI asked IPS board of directors to weigh in and they have cooperated with the community to get answers, while organizations that would seemingly benefit from this legislation have remain silent. AACI is a pillar in the community and a collective of over 20 civic-minded organizations and prioritizes these key questions and providing comprehensive information to the community and lead communication with legislators.  The AACI is asking the below questions to the education reformers and legislators who are advocating for these bills.

1. Proficiency scores on English Language Arts and Math for all schools are concerning. How will taking money from Black and Brown IPS and affiliated innovation and charter schools improve the system? Shouldn’t the advocacy be focused on more funding for all students instead of taking funding from IPS schools and its affiliated innovation and charter schools?
2. Education reform organizations like Rise Indy, Hoosiers for Quality Education, and Stand for Children have made substantial contributions to IPS school board races. What is the goal of these contributions?
3. Charter schools in Indianapolis seem to close frequently with a third closing in Marion County. What actions are being taken to prevent school closures, or do you believe school closures are a benefit to the students and the system as a whole?
4. Where do the tax dollars go when charter schools close?
5. One authorizer has approved 5 schools that have yet to open. Why are schools approved without having the necessary funding for transportation and facilities to sustain operations identified?
6. IPS has a long history of collaborating with education reform initiatives. When did your organizations engage IPS on proposals that would dissolve the board?
7. It is our understanding that the Mind Trust has attempted to negotiate a deal with IPS to agree to a host of changes. Why does the Mind Trust have standing to negotiate this matter? Why is the Mind Trust involved in these negotiations when the discussions should be between IPS and the legislature?