Turn failed IPS sites into charter schools

Mayor Greg Ballard recently announced the city of Indianapolis will petition the State Board of Education to incorporate any IPS schools taken over by the state into a system similar to its successful mayor-sponsored charter school program. As many as seven IPS schools face the prospect of state takeover after six years of failing to meet minimum standards.

No one obviously wants the government to raise our children, but it is clear to me that someone needs to step up and create real reform in the state’s largest school district.

Now is not the time for aisle arguments and political bickering. An education is too important and I think the mayor has proven that education reform through the institution of charter school practices (including proper monitoring and thoughtful administration) can work.

Let’s give Ballard’s offer a chance for the sake of our children and the future of our great city.

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Eric Richards