At the June 25th public hearing of the Indianapolis Local Education Alliance (ILEA), parents, educators, and community members came together with a unified message:  every child in Indianapolis deserves access to a high-quality education—regardless of their background, ZIP code, or school type


Bony Georges: “Every student deserves to be seen—and supported.” 

IPS teacher Bony Georges opened with a moving story of an eighth-grade student who took three buses and walked 25 minutes just to attend school. Despite his determination and academic promise, systemic barriers like unreliable transportation often stood in his way. Bony urged the committee to adopt a more comprehensive approach that supports students beyond the classroom and learns from both charter and traditional schools that are closing the achievement gap. 

Read my full speech:

Good evening ILEA members, 

My name is Bony Georges, and I’m a teacher at an IPS school. I’m here because I care deeply about the future of our most underserved students—the ones I see every day in my classroom. 

In many of these communities, the achievement gap is wide.  

Last year, I had an 8th-grade student who lived far from school. He took three public buses and walked 25 minutes just to get to class. He was only 13. His mom didn’t have a driver’s license, and he didn’t live with his father. But he had a dream—he wanted to be an engineer. He was one of my top students, but he missed school when transportation failed or the weather was bad. 

I saw him. I supported him. But I’m not sure the system did. 

There are many students like him—bright, motivated, full of potential—but held back by barriers beyond their control.  

We need a more comprehensive approach—one that supports students beyond the classroom. We also need to learn from schools – charter and traditional — that are closing these gaps. 

Please consider the achievement gap when creating solutions for all public school types in Indianapolis. Every student deserves to be seen—and supported. 

Thank you. 


Swantella Nelson: “All kids can learn.” 

Swantella, a parent, educator, and tutor, emphasized that the type of school matters less than whether it meets a child’s needs. She called for smart collaboration between IPS and charter schools, urging the committee to focus on what works for students rather than getting caught in divisive debates. Her message was clear: accountability and unity can drive real progress. 

Read my full speech:

Hello ILEA members.  

My name is Swantella Nelson.  I am a public school parent and I have sent my children to both IPS and charter schools.   

I say this because the type of school my children attend has never been more important than ensuring they get what they need from their education setting – a school that meets them where they are. I represent thousands of parents who love and support IPS and also see value in what’s offered by quality charter schools in our community.  

As a parent educator and a tutor, I know it takes a lot to alter your lessons to ensure they are engaging for all your students. I know it can be a battle to keep students engaged through short attention spans. But at the end of the day, each student is capable and what I know above all else is that all kids can learn.   

As a mom, I want to see our schools be accountable and I want smart collaboration between IPS and the charter sectors. I am really hopeful about this committee and I believe if the focus is what’s best for students – and not on the charter vs. IPS debate – then we can support a strategy that expands opportunity and grows school models that are working. Because our kids all deserve the kind of bright future that stems from an amazing education.


Dontia Dyson: “School choice only works if families can get there.” 

As a father of four, Dontia highlighted the critical role of transportation in making school choice meaningful. Without reliable transit or a driver’s license, many families are forced to choose schools based on access—not quality. He called on ILEA to use data and ensure that all students—especially students of color—have access to great schools, teachers, and opportunities. 

Read my full speech:

Hello ILEA members, 

My name is Dontia Dyson. I’m a proud father with two boys who’ve experienced a range of public schools in the IPS district—from traditional to innovation schools. My daughters have also been in the district in the past. Next year, both of my sons will be attending Matchbook School 63.  

I’m here today because I believe this group has a real opportunity to make public education in Indianapolis stronger. That means tackling transportation challenges, using data to guide school choices, and ensuring every child has access to great buildings, great teachers, and great opportunities—no matter what type of public school they attend. 

As a dad, I’ve spent years advocating within IPS because I want to see schools held accountable. I want to see the district make smart decisions about which schools to grow—based on which ones are truly closing the opportunity gap and delivering a high-quality education for our students of color. 

I’ve also spoken up because I know firsthand how critical transportation is. Like many parents, I’ve had to choose schools based on whether they could get my kids there. 

School choice is a powerful promise—but it only works for the kids who can actually get to the schools that are right for them. As someone who doesn’t currently have a driver’s license, I know just how important transportation is to making that promise real. 

Thank you for the work you’re doing. I truly hope this group hears parents like me and can bring together all sectors to create real, lasting and positive change for every public school student in our city. 


Ada Lemus: “Don’t let transportation erase our progress.” 

Ada, a mother of two, shared how her son Cristian’s academic progress—thanks to a new IEP—could be undone if transportation is cut. Without a car, she fears he’ll have to transfer schools and lose the support he’s finally receiving. She urged IPS and charter leaders to work together to improve transportation so families aren’t forced to settle for what’s closest instead of what’s best. 

Read my full speech:

Good evening. My name is Ada Lemus, and I’m a proud mom of two—here to speak for my son Cristian and other families like ours. 

Cristian is going into 7th grade at Edison School of the Arts. He’s smart, hardworking, and recently got an IEP that’s helping him catch up in reading. But that progress is fragile. If transportation gets taken away, I won’t have a way to get him to school—and he’ll have to transfer, losing everything he’s worked for. 

Our family relies heavily on school transportation. If we had more options, I would have sent Cristian to a school that could have supported him earlier—but we didn’t have that choice. Without a car and reliable transit, we’re forced to settle for what’s closest—not what’s best. 

I’m here because I believe IPS and public charter schools need to work together to improve transportation. Every child deserves access to the school that helps them thrive. 

Thank you. 


Vilma Esperanza Hernandez: “That’s not choice. That’s survival.” 

Vilma spoke passionately about the inequities families face when access to quality schools depends on bus routes. She called for collaboration between IPS, the city, and the mayor’s office to ensure all families—not just a lucky few—can reach schools where students of color are thriving. She also emphasized the need to invest in school facilities and scale successful models. 

Read my full speech:

Good evening. My name is Vilma Esperanza Hernandez, and I’m here as a parent who simply wants what every parent wants: a fair shot for our kids—regardless of ZIP code or background. 

I’ve seen schools where students of color are thriving—where educators go above and beyond, and kids are learning with joy and purpose. But sadly, those schools are still too few. And access to them is even harder. 

My family, like many others, has had to make school decisions based on where the bus could take us—not what school is best for our children. That’s not true choice. That’s survival. 

We need leaders to work together—IPS, the city, and the mayor—to make sure families can actually get to the schools that are working. We also need to invest in fixing school buildings and scaling what’s already helping kids succeed. 

Every child deserves that opportunity—not just a lucky few. 

Thank you. 


A Shared Vision for Change 

Each speaker brought a unique perspective, but their message was united: Indianapolis must prioritize access, collaboration and quality schools that close the opportunity gap. Whether through better transportation, smarter school growth strategies, or cross-sector partnerships, the path forward must center on what’s best for students. 

School choice is a powerful promise—but for many families, it’s a promise that falls short. Without reliable transportation, even the best school options are out of reach. In Indianapolis, parents are raising their voices to demand solutions that make school choice real for everyone. 


Here are six powerful stories from advocates who know firsthand how transportation—or the lack of it—can shape a child’s future. 

🎤 Cristal Salgado: “I had to pull my son from a school that was working.” 

Watch this video from March 2025. In it, Cristal calls for collaboration between IPS and charter schools to ensure families like hers aren’t left behind. As a single mom of two, Cristal found a charter school that helped her son thrive. But without transportation, the daily commute became overwhelming. After a year of trying to make it work, she had to withdraw him.  

🎤 Ada Lemus: “Without transportation, my son could lose everything he’s gained.” 

In this testimony from March 2025, Ada explains how her son is finally making progress with the help of an IEP and a supportive school. But that progress is fragile. Without a bus, she fears he’ll lose access to the environment that’s helping him succeed. Ada urges leaders to prioritize transportation so students can stay where they’re thriving. 

🎤 Sashah Fletcher: “We need to make it easier for families to choose what’s best.” 

Sashah testified at an IPS board meeting, sharing how transportation challenges limit real school choice. She believes families shouldn’t have to choose between a great school and a manageable commute—and that access should never depend on a parent’s ability to drive across town. 

🎤 Vilma Hernandez: “Fairness means access—for everyone.” 

Vilma spoke directly to IPS leaders, advocating for inclusive access to all public schools, including charters. She emphasized that transportation is a matter of fairness and that no family should be excluded from opportunity because of where they live or how they get around. 

🎤 Dontia Dyson: “If my son didn’t have a bus, I couldn’t get him to school.” 

Dontia is a single father of four, including an autistic son. He’s currently without a driver’s license due to insurance issues, and he knows firsthand how critical school transportation is. Without it, his children wouldn’t be able to attend schools that meet their needs. He’s calling for solutions that reflect the realities families face every day. 

🎤 Bryana Perdomo: “Transportation shouldn’t be the reason a child misses out.” 

Bryana is a student who understands the impact of transportation barriers from a young person’s perspective. She shared how difficult it can be for students to access the schools that are best for them when transportation isn’t available. Her message is clear: students deserve better. 


✅ The Bottom Line 

These stories make one thing clear: transportation is not just a convenience—it’s a necessity. If we want school choice to work for all families, we must invest in solutions that ensure every child can get to the school that’s right for them. 

Because every child deserves access to opportunity—no matter their ZIP code. 


About This Series: Understanding the Indianapolis Local Education Alliance (ILEA) 

In 2025, Indiana lawmakers passed House Bill 1515, establishing the Indianapolis Local Education Alliance (ILEA)—a task force comprised of local leaders led by the mayor of Indianapolis with the goal of generating ideas to ensure IPS traditional schools and the charter sector are collaborating to improve student outcomes. The ILEA is not about choosing one type of school over another. It’s about building a cohesive system of schools—district, charter, and innovation—that work together to deliver better outcomes for all students. 

This blog series explores the key policy areas that our advocates believe are essential to creating a high-performing, student-centered education system. Each post will dive into a specific topic—ranging from school accountability and funding to transportation—highlighting how these elements can support a system that prioritizes better results for students. 

In Indiana we often talk about the value of school choice, but for many families that choice is limited by one major barrier: transportation. 

At Stand Indiana, we’ve heard from countless parents and advocates who support expanding access to high-quality schools, including charter schools. But too often, families are unable to attend those schools simply because they can’t get there. 

🚌 Transportation: A Barrier to Real Choice 

Many charter schools in Indianapolis don’t offer transportation, leaving families—especially those without reliable access to a car—without a real choice. This is especially troubling when some of the city’s highest-performing schools are charters. 

If we truly believe in school choice, we must ensure that every family has the means to access it. 

🗣️ Advocates Are Speaking Up 

Stand Indiana advocates have taken this message to both the IPS Board of Commissioners and the Indiana General Assembly: 

These are just some of the voices calling for a system that works for all families—not just those with the means to drive across town. 

💰 Funding should no longer be a barrier 

Historically, one of the biggest barriers to charter transportation has been funding. But that’s changing. 

Thanks to recent legislation, charter schools will begin receiving an equal share of local property tax dollars starting in 2028. That means the financial playing field is leveling—and transportation should no longer be out of reach.  

📚 Learn More 

✅ The Bottom Line 

Transportation is more than a logistical issue—it’s a matter of fairness and access. If we want to make school choice real for all families, we must ensure that getting to a great school isn’t the hardest part. 

Because every child deserves access to a school that works—no matter where they live. 


About This Series: Understanding the Indianapolis Local Education Alliance (ILEA) 

In 2025, Indiana lawmakers passed House Bill 1515, establishing the Indianapolis Local Education Alliance (ILEA)—a task force comprised of local leaders led by the mayor of Indianapolis with the goal of generating ideas to ensure IPS traditional schools and the charter sector are collaborating to improve student outcomes. The ILEA is not about choosing one type of school over another. It’s about building a cohesive system of schools—district, charter, and innovation—that work together to deliver better outcomes for all students. 

This blog series explores the key policy areas that our advocates believe are essential to creating a high-performing, student-centered education system. Each post will dive into a specific topic—ranging from school accountability and funding to transportation—highlighting how these elements can support a system that prioritizes better results for students. 

When parents speak up about their children’s education, often they’re not asking for miracles—they’re asking for accountability. They want schools that work, leaders who listen, and systems that deliver real results for all kids, especially those who have been historically underserved. 

At Stand Indiana, we’ve heard from countless families who are calling for change. Their stories are powerful, personal, and united by a common theme: every child deserves a school that helps them succeed. 


🗣️ “I want IPS schools that close the gap.” 

In this video, Greg Henson, a parent advocate, delivers a heartfelt message to Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) leaders during a May 2024 Action Session. His call is clear: grow school models that are proven to close the opportunity gap. This video is a powerful reminder that accountability isn’t abstract—it’s deeply personal for families who want to see their children succeed. 

📈 “For years, parents like me have asked leaders to use data to drive decisions”  

In her powerful testimony, parent advocate LaToya Hale Tahirou speaks directly to IPS leaders, urging them to take bold, data-driven action to improve outcomes for all students—especially underserved children. 

Her message is clear: accountability means more than just measuring performance—it means acting on it.  

📚 “I’m asking IPS for proven schools.” 

In this story, Shawanda Tyson, a parent and advocate, calls for a shift in focus—from maintaining the status quo to scaling up schools that are already showing strong results. She wants leaders to use data to guide decisions and to invest in what is working. 


🔍 What Parents Are Saying 

Across all these stories, the message is consistent: 

  • Measure what matters. Use data to understand what’s working—and what’s not. 
  • Act on that data. Don’t just collect it. Use it to make bold, student-centered decisions. 
  • Be transparent. Families deserve to know how schools are performing and what’s being done to improve them. 
  • Prioritize students. Especially those who have been underserved for too long. 

💡 The Bottom Line 

School accountability isn’t about blame—it’s about building a better future for our kids. Parents aren’t asking for perfection. They’re asking for progress. And they’re right to expect it. 

Because every child deserves a school that works. 


About This Series: Understanding the Indianapolis Local Education Alliance (ILEA) 

In 2025, Indiana lawmakers passed House Bill 1515, establishing the Indianapolis Local Education Alliance (ILEA)—a task force comprised of local leaders led by the mayor of Indianapolis with the goal of generating ideas to ensure IPS traditional schools and the charter sector are collaborating to improve student outcomes. The ILEA is not about choosing one type of school over another. It’s about building a cohesive system of schools—district, charter, and innovation—that work together to deliver better outcomes for all students. 

This blog series explores the key policy areas that our advocates believe are essential to creating a high-performing, student-centered education system. Each post will dive into a specific topic—ranging from school accountability and funding to transportation—highlighting how these elements can support a system that prioritizes better results for students. 

When it comes to improving public education, data-driven decisions matter—and Denver Public Schools (DPS) offers a powerful case study. 

A 2024 report from the University of Colorado Denver examined nearly two decades of school reforms in DPS, focusing on how the district used accountability systems to guide school improvement. The findings are clear: when districts act on data—expanding what works and phasing out what doesn’t—student outcomes improve. 

📈 Key Takeaways from the Study: 

  • Closing low-performing schools and replacing them with higher-quality options led to better academic outcomes for students. 
  • Students displaced by school closures often ended up in higher-performing schools, especially when the district prioritized equity in its placement process. 
  • The district’s focus on accountability and continuous improvement helped drive long-term gains, particularly for students of color and those from low-income backgrounds. 

🧭 Why It Matters 

This study reinforces what education advocates have long believed: accountability isn’t about punishment—it’s about progress. When school systems are willing to make tough decisions based on student outcomes, they can create more equitable opportunities for all learners. 

As Indianapolis and other cities consider how to improve public education, Denver’s experience offers a roadmap: use data, act boldly, and always center students. 

📖 Read the full study summary here: https://publicaffairs.ucdenver.edu/docs/librariesprovider36/default-document-library/denver-study-summary-september-2024.pdf?sfvrsn=60236bb4_1 


About This Series: Understanding the Indianapolis Local Education Alliance (ILEA) 

In 2025, Indiana lawmakers passed House Bill 1515, establishing the Indianapolis Local Education Alliance (ILEA)—a task force comprised of local leaders led by the mayor of Indianapolis with the goal of generating ideas to ensure IPS traditional schools and the charter sector are collaborating to improve student outcomes. The ILEA is not about choosing one type of school over another. It’s about building a cohesive system of schools—district, charter, and innovation—that work together to deliver better outcomes for all students. 

This blog series explores the key policy areas that our advocates believe are essential to creating a high-performing, student-centered education system. Each post will dive into a specific topic—ranging from school accountability and funding to transportation—highlighting how these elements can support a system that prioritizes better results for students. 

When we talk about improving public education, one word often rises to the top:  accountability. But what does that really mean—and why does it matter so much? 

At  Stand Indiana, we believe accountability isn’t about consequences or blame. It’s about  ensuring every student has access to a high-quality public education. That means identifying what’s working, fixing what’s not, and making decisions based on real data and student outcomes. 


📊 What Accountability Looks Like 

Accountability in education means having a clear, consistent system to measure school performance and take action when schools consistently underperform. It’s about: 

  • Scaling up schools and programs that are proven to work, especially for underserved students.  
  • Phasing out or redesigning schools that continue to struggle, year after year. 
  • Using data—not politics—to guide decisions  that impact students’ futures. 

🧭 Why It Matters in Indianapolis 

Here in Indianapolis, more than 46,000 students are served across all public school types. Every one of those students deserves a school that helps them thrive. 

That’s why Stand Indiana has long advocated for a plan to  grow school models that are data-proven to improve outcomes for underserved students—and to roll back those that aren’t working, regardless of whether they’re traditional or charter. 

Accountability means asking hard questions—and demanding better answers. 


🗣️ What Advocates Are Saying 

Our community has spoken up again and again: 

  • “I want IPS schools that close the gap.” 
  • “Our children deserve an equitable education.” 
  • “I’m asking IPS for proven schools.” 

Last year, Stand Indiana and our partners delivered a petition to IPS calling for a  detailed plan to grow great schools. The board responded with resolution to reopen the innovation school application process—unfortunately not a proactive plan to partner with high-performing schools


📚 What the Research Shows 

A University of Colorado study on Denver Public Schools shows what is possible when districts make data-driven decisions grounded in an accountable system: student outcomes improve when quality is scaled, and low-performing schools are closed or restructured. 

We’ve also compiled our own data on the  best-performing schools for children of color  in Indianapolis.  


The Bottom Line 

Accountability isn’t a buzzword—it’s a  lifeline  for students who have been underserved for far too long. If we want to build a truly fair education system, we must start with a  shared definition of success  and a  clear plan to get there

Because every child deserves a school that works. 


About This Series: Understanding the Indianapolis Local Education Alliance (ILEA) 

In 2025, Indiana lawmakers passed House Bill 1515, establishing the Indianapolis Local Education Alliance (ILEA)—a task force comprised of local leaders led by the mayor of Indianapolis with the goal of generating ideas to ensure IPS traditional schools and the charter sector are collaborating to improve student outcomes. The ILEA is not about choosing one type of school over another. It’s about building a cohesive system of schools—district, charter, and innovation—that work together to deliver better outcomes for all students. 

This blog series explores the key policy areas that our advocates believe are essential to creating a high-performing, student-centered education system. Each post will dive into a specific topic—ranging from school accountability and funding to transportation—highlighting how these elements can support a system that prioritizes better results for students. 

As a local task force known as the Indianapolis Local Education Alliance begins its work, parents across the city are watching closely—and with hope. Created through House Bill 1515, the ILEA represents a new opportunity to envision a public education system that puts student outcomes first, no matter the type of school. For families, this isn’t just about policy—it’s about real change in the areas that matter most. 

We hope the task force members will keep in mind these parent stories and testimonies:   

Advocates have been clear about the need to address the painful achievement gap that persists in IPS and other districts inside Indianapolis/Marion County. The ILEA represents a great opportunity to think about how the best in both sectors – IPS and public charter schools – can be leveraged to deliver dramatically better outcomes for all students, including those who remain furthest from opportunity.  

But that work begins with listening to parents – these parents – who have lived in the system and know what needs to be done to address the core issues that continue to stand in the way of fairness and equal opportunity for every child to succeed.    


About This Series: Understanding the Indianapolis Local Education Alliance (ILEA) 

In 2025, Indiana lawmakers passed House Bill 1515, establishing the Indianapolis Local Education Alliance (ILEA)—a task force comprised of local leaders led by the mayor of Indianapolis  with the goal of generating ideas to ensure IPS traditional schools and the charter sector are collaborating to improve student outcomes. The ILEA is not about choosing one type of school over another. It’s about building a cohesive system of schools—district, charter, and innovation—that work together to deliver better outcomes for all students. 

This blog series explores the key policy areas that our advocates believe are essential to creating a high-performing, student-centered education system. Each post will dive into a specific topic—ranging from school accountability and funding to transportation—highlighting how these elements can support a system that prioritizes better results for students. 

🚨 Big news for public education in Indianapolis!

The members of the Indianapolis Local Education Alliance (ILEA) have officially been announced. This new board—created by the Indiana General Assembly—is tasked with shaping how IPS and charter schools collaborate on facilities and transportation,.

Chaired by Mayor Joe Hogsett, the board includes a mix of civic leaders, educators, and advocates with deep ties to the community. Their work could directly impact how public education is delivered across all schools in within the IPS district.

📝 The board must submit its recommendations to the mayor, legislature and IPS board by December 31, 2025, covering potential collaboration between charters and IPS, including:

  • Facilities
  • Transportation
  • Funding and referendums

Community input will be critical. Stay tuned for opportunities to engage and make your voice heard.


📖 Read more from WFYI: Meet the new board shaping IPS and charter school policy

📖 Read more from IndyStar: Hogsett, IPS names members of group shaping the future of the district

📖 Read more from Chalkbeat Indiana: Indianapolis Local Education Alliance members announced by mayor and IPS

Recently, I received a full-ride scholarship. I know this wouldn’t have been possible without my incredible teacher, Mrs. Lizer. When my mamá was deported and I felt completely lost, she stepped in during one of the darkest times in my life and became a source of strength and hope. 

I want to acknowledge my incredible teacher, Mrs. Lizer, because I understand how much teachers give—not just in teaching, but in supporting their students in every way possible. She connected my family with legal support, food, and housing assistance, but her care didn’t stop there. She continues to stand with me, encouraging me, offering guidance, and reminding me that I’m never alone. Her unwavering support has meant the world to me, and for that, I’ll be forever grateful. 

Watch my story to learn about my teacher who went above and beyond when I needed her the most: 

After you watch my story, please take a moment to celebrate and uplift a teacher who has made a positive impact in your life. It’s teacher appreciation month and your heartfelt tribute can inspire others. Your story can also highlight the dedication and passion of teachers who are often underappreciated for all they do both inside and outside of the classroom.  

The 2025 legislative session officially concluded (also known as ‘Sine Die’) on April 29. Reflecting on the whirlwind of the past few months, it’s clear there is much to celebrate with our advocates and partners. 

Investing in Our Teachers 

One significant victory is the allocation of over $35 million into the Teacher Appreciation Grant for strategically retaining excellent teachers and elevating leadership roles within schools. The TAG language in the budget reflects some of the key ideas for teacher retention we worked on alongside partners this summer. Despite a budget deficit announced just before Sine Die, this language and funding, originally in House Bill 1500, remained intact. 

A Historic Win for Public Charter School Funding 

Despite challenging circumstances, parents and students tirelessly returned to the Statehouse to address a funding gap of more than $100 million for public charter school students. Thanks to these advocate voices, combined with amazing leadership of partner organizations like The Mind Trust, a historic policy change happened that will ensure fair funding for students across all public school types.   

Addressing Inequities in Our Largest School District 

At the session’s outset, we aimed to support bills addressing fundamental inequities in IPS, our state’s largest school district. This included transportation plans to benefit public schools across sectors and ensure our school buildings are housing programs that are getting the best student outcomes. Stand was proud to be a part of coalition of supporters who  successfully pushed for the passage of House Bill 1515, which includes the creation of two pilot programs aimed at student transportation and facilities. This work will extend over three years and is authorized by the Indiana Department of Education in three districts. The bill also creates the Indianapolis Local Education Alliance (ILEA), which exists to assess all local school facilities and develop a long-term transportation and facilities plan that encompasses schools in both the traditional and charter sectors within the IPS boundary. Our hope is HB 1515 will lead to efficient and effective transportation services that improve access to education for students. 

Reaffirming School Accountability 

Lastly, advocates are celebrating a bill that will bring back an A-F school accountability system. While there is a desire for more comprehensive school accountability, the passage of House Bill 1498 kicks off a new process to build a revamped and trusted system of school and district accountability that parents have supported for years. 

Looking Ahead 

Though we’ve adjourned the 2025 legislative session, the work continues. In the coming months, Stand Indiana staffers and advocates look forward to engaging in deep discussions about education and collaborating to drive positive change for public school students in Indiana.