Over the last 20 years, the Indianapolis school system has shifted significantly. With an increase in public school choices, parents are exercising their right to find a school that best fits their needs. Their choices have reshaped our city’s education landscape. Community leaders, educators, and lawmakers should put a strong emphasis on listening to parents and acting on what they need from their schools.

In partnership with EmpowerED Families, a local parent advocacy group, The Mind Trust is proud to present “Parent Perspectives: What Indianapolis parents and residents want from their public schools“. The report outlines the views of those who represent the majority of public school students within Indianapolis Public School (IPS) boundaries: charter and innovation school families.

Public charter and innovation school students make up 58.3% of all students in IPS boundaries, so hearing those parents’ voices is crucial.

A few report highlights:

  • There was a 2.5% increase in IPS enrollment from the 2019-2020 to 2020-2021 school year.
  • Data from more than 2,000 surveys and 1:1 interviews from Marion County residents and public charter and innovation school parents.
  • A breakdown of what public charter and innovation school parents love and would like to improve at their schools.
  • Recommendations for school leaders, lawmakers, community leaders, and other stakeholders on how to leverage parent perspectives.

Our city, state, and country continue to recover from learning loss caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. As we find solutions forward, parent views and experiences must be included. Families need to be kept at the center of decision-making.

A Conversation for Parents by Parents

  • The Mind Trust and EmpowerED Families will host a community conversation about the report, featuring a charter and innovation school parent panel on Tuesday, December 12 at the Indianapolis Central Public Library. You are invited!

  • Click here to register for the event.