Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) is entering into a series of new partnerships in 2023 that will expand the services it provides to staff, students and families.
Starting in fall 2023, IPS and Early Learning Indiana will launch a high-quality early learning center at the Thomas Carr Howe building. The partnership supports a shared belief that every child is empowered with essential skills to be successful in kindergarten and beyond.
IPS employees will receive a $10-per-child weekly tuition discount, priority placement at any Early Learning Indiana center, and may also qualify for additional financial aid and assistance.
IPS has also partnered with Gennesaret Free Clinics to provide a dental clinic at Arsenal Technical High School beginning in early 2023.
Gennesaret provides free dental services to both uninsured and underinsured individuals to improve dental health and overall health and well-being.
Services will include:
- Cleaning.
- Dentures (full and partials).
- Exams.
- Periodontal work.
- Simple extractions.
- Dental X-ray.
The district is also joining with the he Health and Hospital Corporation’s Marion County Public Health Department to utilize the Susan Leach School 68 building as a winter recovery site through March. The former IPS school will be used for temporary residential housing of displaced or homeless individuals and families, and for associated services.
Last year, the building was used by the city of Indianapolis to provide overflow housing for women, children and families who were homeless during the winter months.
Also, IPS is finalizing details on the launch of the Family Resource Center (FRC) at Arlington Middle School, which is scheduled to open in the 2024–25 school year. The goal of the FRC is to connect IPS families with direct or referral-based services to access basic needs and capacity-building supports.
The center will serve as a one-stop shop for medical/dental care, mental health and wellness support, food, school uniforms, hygiene items, school supplies, housing and utilities support, youth evaluations, translation services, and various classes and involvement opportunities for parents and children.