Carley Lanich

1 week ago | wfyi.org | Carley Lanich

June 17, 2025Carley Lanich - Mirror Indy, Eric Weddle & MJ Slaby - Chalkbeat Indiana This article was published as part of a partnership between Chalkbeat Indiana, WFYI, and Mirror Indy to increase coverage of township school districts in Marion County. When he considers future budgets for Wayne Township schools, Superintendent Jeff Butts knows times are about to get tougher. But he’s also grateful for what didn’t happen.

2 weeks ago | mirrorindy.org | Carley Lanich

Marisha Austin was nervous the first time she put her 4-year-old on the bus by himself. But she loves the independence he’s gained in his first few months at Wayne Township Preschool. Her son spends his whole day at the school, participating in half-day preschool and day care. Austin, who lives nearby, said the school’s hours and the welcoming staff can’t be beat. “There’s not a lot of preschools that promote independence — it’s that baby-fied stuff,” she said. “I really love this place.

3 weeks ago | mirrorindy.org | Carley Lanich

Summer is fast approaching, but school kitchens aren’t winding down. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s annual Summer Nutrition Program for Kids keeps vital meal services running through the summer for children of all ages. And, Indianapolis is expected to have dozens of locations serving up the free meals this summer. How does it work? The USDA partners with schools, parks, community centers and more to offer free meals to students from any school. There’s no income requirements to participate.

3 weeks ago | mirrorindy.org | Carley Lanich

Indianapolis Public Schools is ending free access to all in its full-day pre-K program. The district announced June 3 that it will implement a sliding payment scale charging up to $150 a week for families who don’t qualify for federal assistance. That fee is on par with rates charged in neighboring school districts. The change comes amid rising costs and state lawmakers’ decision last budget session to further limit access to Indiana’s pre-K voucher program for low-income families.

1 month ago | mirrorindy.org | Carley Lanich

Maria Ibanez didn’t like school much when she was younger. But, after three years in a Crispus Attucks High School fellowship program, the IU Indianapolis student has a plan. She’s a freshman now — taking a full schedule of college classes and working part time as a patient care assistant with IU Health. “I didn’t see myself doing a lot,” Ibanez said.