Op/Ed: IPS plan will increase funding gap, won't create equity for public schools in Indy

They say democracy dies in darkness. Look no further than the way Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) is managing a major plan that will cost taxpayers millions and determine the future of K-12 students for the next decade.

As local public school students, parents and guardians of local public school students, we are sounding the alarm on the proposed $400 million tax increase that will fund operating expenses at some local public schools.

We all agree that our public schools need more resources, especially our teachers in the classroom, but our challenge supporting this plan is twofold: The public knows little about the plan, and what we’ve heard so far about how the money would flow to schools and students is very troubling.

It’s hard to evaluate a proposal that’s not been widely shared with the community, and it feels like families, educators and taxpayers are being asked to go along with a proposal solely because those in power say it’s the right solution.

More:Op/Ed: With Rebuilding Stronger, IPS will do for all students what it did for us

IPS leaders only have to give 48 hours’ notice before calling for a final vote on this plan. We all know that’s not enough time to gather meaningful feedback, and honestly, that rushed turnaround time makes it seem like they’ve got something to hide.

Moreover, Indianapolis Public Schools leadership has said the plan is equitable.

It isn’t.

The plan IPS is proposing will dramatically increase the funding gap among different public schools in Indianapolis.

Rebuilding Stronger creates inequity:Indy charter schools call on IPS to share possible referendum dollars

Students at district-run schools will receive full funding. Students at innovation public schools that are part of the district will receive significantly less funding. Students at public charter schools located in but not operated by the district will receive nothing.

The per-student gap between those attending public charters and those attending district-run schools could grow to as much as $10,000 per student.

The schools that predominantly serve students of color? They get the least funding — if they get anything at all.

And while those in power are downplaying the cost of this plan to taxpayers, they overlook that it is not easy for many among us to pay more against the backdrop of inflation, high gas prices, food costs and a looming property tax increase — least of all when our kids’ schools and teachers will see little to no benefit.

IPS Innovation Schools:IPS proposes sending more referendum dollars to innovation charter schools

The funding shortfall for some of our most diverse public schools is reason enough to halt this harried plan. Add in the weeks of secrecy and potential financial toll on families who can least afford it, and it’s clear the IPS board needs to hit pause and start rebuilding trust with our community.

Our public school students deserve a bright, clear future. That cannot happen under the cloud of darkness and uncertainty this inequitable proposal has created.

Kim Graham, EmpowerED Families; Karyn Anderson, Riverside High School, student; Dontia Dyson, Longfellow School 28, parent; Lettera Anderson, Riverside High School, parent; Shcarlett Estrada, Global Prep Academy, parent; Courtney Kendricks, Purdue Polytechnic High School Englewood, parent; Kayla Mattas, IPS School 87, parent; Sashah Robertson, Purdue Polytechnic High School, parent; LaToya Tahirou, Paramount School of Excellence, parent; Zariah Thornton, Riverside High School, student.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Funding needs for charter schools excluded in Rebuilding Stronger plan