IPS Approves New Innovation Schools

Subscriber Benefit
As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowIndianapolis Public Schools has given the go-ahead for two new Innovation Network Schools. As a result of the move, the two schools will be held to higher academic standards, but be exempt from many district and state regulations.
The district says the Innovation Schools lead to more educator and family empowerment as well as higher academic achievement for students. IPS is creating the schools in partnership with The Mind Trust and the city of Indianapolis.The move results in a restart of sorts for two low-performing schools for the 2016-2017 academic year.
The Global Prep Academy will open in Riverside Elementary School 44 and eventually serve K-8 students. It will focus on a global, hands-on curriculum emphasizing critical thinking and creativity. Students will receive instruction in English and Spanish. GPA will continue to serve existing students in addition to new students.
The Kindezi Academy will be a K-6 school opening in Joyce Kilmer Elementary School 69. The district says the school will specialize in leadership education through small group instruction, innovative use of technology and "blended learning." Kindezi will also serve current and new students.
IPS opened five other Innovation Schools in the current school year.