INDIANAPOLIS — Tracy Boyd is a proud IPS alum.
"Class of 1985, Arlington Golden Knight!"
37 years after graduating, Boyd attended the 2022 IPS State of The District speech, at her alma mater, hopeful the district will give students the experience she had at Arlington High School which is now Arlington Middle School.
"When I attended this school, I felt like it was an extension of my family," Boyd said. "The teachers knew us by name and it was just a culture that I think is missing, so I hope that's in the plan."
Boyd says administrators like Mr. Fred Jones helped created that family-like culture, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and believe in themselves. That's why she is still invested in IPS.
Although she isn't an IPS parent, Boyd feels this is an issue everyone should care about.
"I think it's important, particularly important for our poor children, Black and Brown children, to receive a quality education," Boyd said.
Superintendent Dr. Aleesia Johnson laid out a plan that will fundamentally change the district, giving students in all zip codes access to quality education while keeping the district out of the red. Seven schools will be closed. That worries Boyd because she's seen it happen before.
RELATED: Indianapolis Public Schools' superintendent announces Rebuilding Stronger plan
"I think that Broad Ripple was a fantastic public school and it's a waste of space in my opinion, so I was also impressed that she said there would be reuse," Boyd said.
She hopes the closed schools will continue to serve the communities by being outreach centers offering community services in the underserved neighborhoods where the empty schools will be. As for what happens next Boyd hopes people decide to attend to go to the public meetings.
"I hope that people become engaged because a lot of times, I think what happens is after something happens we shout to the hill."
-
WNBA All-Star 2025: Indianapolis holds public safety briefing
The briefing is providing important updates on street closures, safety protocols, and emergency response coordination.
Rockstar Pizza's 'pizza rock' hunt boosts community spirit in Brownsburg
The hand-painted "pizza rock" treasure hunt, began five years ago and has taken social media by storm. This fun community activity encourages residents to search for a hidden rock.
31 years later, Franklin police identify parents in 'Baby Hope' cold case
A cold case from 1994 that captured national attention was the focus of a significant update from Franklin Police on Monday.
New early learning center aims to bring hope to Speedway’s “childcare desert”
The Weston School is opening a new early learning center in Speedway to address the area’s childcare shortage, but recent state cuts to voucher programs may limit access for low-income families.
