13 WTHR IndianapolisIPS students return to the classroom amid concerns over a possible state takeover

IPS students return to the classroom amid concerns over a possible state takeover

Updated:
By Rich Van Wyk - bio | email
IPS begins the year with some 300 fewer staffers. IPS begins the year with some 300 fewer staffers.
The state could possibly take control of five high schools and one middle school for poor performance. The state could possibly take control of five high schools and one middle school for poor performance.
Almost all IPS buildings now have some sort of air conditioning. Almost all IPS buildings now have some sort of air conditioning.
INDIANAPOLIS -

The potential takeover of five IPS high schools and one IPS middle school has more than a few parents concerned on this the first day of the new school year.

IPS Superintendent Eugene White  says 57 of the districts 63 schools are not on probation despite the high rates of students in poverty, homelessness and special education programs. IPS is the largest school district in the state and is intent on dealing with the issue head on.

Spokesperson Mary Louise Bewley explained "Even though people are concerned about what is going to happen with the state in some of our schools,  we anticipate a great school year because we know we will be working hard at all those schools that are on the takeover list. And so we just don't want people worried about that.  The state takeover will shake out the way it is going to shake out. This school year we just need to be focused on learning."

One big change IPS has made this year has to be with school renovations and air conditioning. The district has worked hard over the summer and in the last year to make sure students have air conditioning when they come back to school.

The district has purchased or renovated 100 window air conditioners.  So now only two of 63 schools will have to deal with potential heat problems.  Schools 74 and 99 have some air conditioners but not in every classroom window.  It is using box fans and frequent water breaks.

The renovations were paid for by a bond issue that was approved by the voters two years ago but is just now beginning to pay dividends.