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."
-
Residents say they are left without heat at Admiral Apartments
There's been a serious cry for help at one apartment complex on the north side. Residents reached out to WRTV with complaints of no heat.
Simple hack can save you money and keep your home warm this winter
Adding an extra layer of insulation to your window will help keep the cold air from coming inside. You can do it for about $15.
Martindale-Brightwood neighborhood releases plan for improvement
The neighborhood's top priorities are increasing its police presence, improving parks and trails, and developing activities and places for children to stay motivated outside of school.
Lower childhood vaccination rates still concerning local health officials
Across the nation, fewer parents are taking their kids to get vaccinated against once-common childhood diseases. WRTV talked to local health officials about the reasons why.
