The move that many were waiting to see happen, did happen during the IPS Board of Commissioners’ summer retreat at a public meeting held at the Central Library. Indianapolis Public Schools is the largest district in the city, and many were wondering if IPS would adjust their plans like other districts in the city in preparation for an unprecedented 2020 school year. What happens for charter schools and innovation schools? Will they follow suit or continue on their paths?
In a recent Facebook I stated the following:
I have a lot of respect for the individuals who sit in these school superintendent seats. The decisions they have to make are difficult and they are pulled in many directions. I truly believe their hearts are in the right place. They want to make the best decision for children and families.
It is decisions like this why we, as the public, should give superintendents grace. Superintendent Johnson is running the largest district in Indianapolis. Her decision does not just impact the families of IPS, but also many other schools. I am sure she knows her decision has other ramifications. Instead of going on Facebook criticizing the decision, we should offer her grace and support.
The rising number of Indianapolis COVID-19 cases has caused school districts to divert from their previous plans to start on time. Washington Township first made news by deciding to go 100% virtual to begin the year. Wayne Township and Warren followed that news by delaying their start. Just yesterday, Hamilton Southeastern Schools decided to go 100% virtual and not consider in-person school until after Labor Day.
Parents in IPS now have to make accommodations for the extra two weeks.
When asked about the decision to delay school a parent told me,
At least the two weeks gives me time to decide what I want to do with my children. I know have to work, and I am not sure if my job will allow me to work from home, but I do not feel comfortable sending my children back to school in-person. However, I do not know if they will do well in a virtual setting either.
It isn’t clear what charter schools sharing the boundary with IPS will do. Will parents leave the district for a charter school that starts on time? This is a challenging time for school leaders and for parents who have to make tough decisions.
IPS families will be given more time from the previous deadline to consider if they want to opt their child into full-time virtual learning when school starts August 17.
This is a developing story. Please continue to follow Indy K12 for more updates.