INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — A new board took control of Indianapolis schools Monday, holding its first meeting inside the City-County Building as protesters rallied outside.

The Indianapolis Public Education Corporation, or IPEC, convened at 4 p.m. David Harris chaired the meeting and Mayor Joe Hogsett joined via Zoom from Japan.

Inside, members voted on initial resolutions that will reshape how money moves through the district. Outside, demonstrators warned the new board could hurt teachers and students.

Funding was first on the agenda. Interim executive director Michael O’Connor told the board IPEC wants to cap charter school funding at 3% of property tax revenue.

“I need the right people at the table, so we are making the best decisions on behalf of all the kids in the district,” O’Connor said.

He added that the board will bring in outside financial experts before adjusting the budget. O’Connor also referenced an appropriation resolution, which gives IPEC authority to move funds for various purposes.

Protesters gathered outside the City-County Building and refused to enter the meeting. “I believe in a free, fully funded public education,” said one protester, who asked to remain anonymous. “Because the ILEA didn’t listen, the legislation last year didn’t listen to teachers. We need them to hear us.”

Courtney Lee, a mother of a 9-year-old, said the issue hits home.

“I have a child in school and I see the direct impact of the constant cuts to public schools,” Lee said. “But if I didn’t have a child, I would still be hurt.”

Indianapolis City-County Councilor Jesse Brown connected the protest to a broader political fight. 

“We need to get rid of the Mayor,” Brown said. “I was the first politician to call for him to resign. I stand by that. I think we’re gonna need a new Mayor to get a new path forward in education in the city.”

What does IPEC control?

State lawmakers established IPEC after a December report on district finances. The board manages funds and referendums this year.  In 2028, it will take over buildings and transportation. IPEC is also tasked with developing an accountability system that could lead to school closures.

Local school boards retain control over curriculum, hiring, and daily operating budgets.

IPEC members plan to hold another meeting next month.

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