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Parents, educators and business leaders tell IPEC to pass referendum but demand transparency and accountability
Summary
During public comment, dozens of parents, teachers and business leaders urged the board to approve a referendum that funds all public-school students while insisting on spending transparency, protections for special education, and clear accountability mechanisms for charter recipients.
Dozens of residents, educators and business leaders used the public-comment period at the IPEC meeting to urge action on a proposed operating referendum while repeatedly calling for robust transparency and accountability measures.
Sierra Jones, principal of Avondale Meadows Middle School, said the funds would have "a meaningful impact on our students," citing a student body that is 98% Black and where 91% qualify for free or reduced lunch. Several charter and innovation school leaders—including Marquilla Brown and Chris Boltman—urged the board to move forward because the referendum would distribute public tax dollars to public-school students regardless of the operator.
Speakers across the room stressed that passage must come with clear reporting: Monica Shellhammer, a vice president of the Indianapolis Education Association, told the board the community would expect a dashboard showing where "every single penny" of referendum funds is spent. "Without our support, you're facing an uphill battle," she said, noting teacher backing can affect referendum outcomes.
Business and civic leaders framed the referendum as essential to economic stability. "Strong public schools are foundational to the strength of our city," Jeffrey Harrison, chair of the Indy Chamber, said, while also pressing for "discipline, transparency, and a clear focus on results" in exchange for business support.
Public speakers also pushed for accessible outreach, translated materials and meaningful involvement of families who speak languages other than English, noting that engagement and trust will be necessary for voter approval.
