(IPS) operates nearly 80 schools throughout the district for students in Grades Pre-K–12. Among these schools are a variety of choice options, formerly called magnet programs, that fit every child and every learning style.
In 1971, IPS opened 9 magnet and option programs with assistance from federal magnet grants. By 1993, there were 22 of these programs and admission was by application. Some of the high schools had criteria such as auditions or academics. As the popularity of the programs grew, an excess of applicants over available openings required a lottery system for admission. These programs included a variety of innovative instructional methods that cultivated the different learning styles and interests of students. Since their inception, the magnet and option programs were successful in improving racial integration, student attendance, parental involvement, and academic achievement in IPS.
Beginning in 2014, IPS moved toward a system of portfolio schools that now includes choice, neighborhood, innovation, and at nearly 80 schools throughout the district. IPS elementary and middle school choice programs include: Montessori, International Baccalaureate (IB) at the Center for Inquiry schools, Reggio Emilia at the Butler Lab schools, Spanish immersion, agriculture and environmental studies, Paideia, action-based learning, college prep, STEM, and high ability. Most of these schools continue affiliation with Magnet Schools of America.
Former high school magnet programs have evolved or changed, as well. Beginning in the 2018-2019 academic year, all IPS high schools are considered choice schools. With IPS directly operating or overseeing–along with Innovation partners–10 different high schools, each offering a variety of college and career programs designed to align with students’ postsecondary and career interests. The shift to full choice at the high school level empowers students to pursue their interests and passions and allows them to attend the school that best fits their needs regardless of where they live.
IPS utilizes a unified enrollment system run by Enroll Indy, which began managing the district lottery during the 2017–2018 school year. This system encompasses IPS and non-IPS schools and makes school selection more convenient and transparent for families. The lottery includes a two-round application process and eliminates waiting lists. After the lottery rounds end, open seats in schools become available on a first-come, first-served basis. Additional criteria, such as district and sibling priority, come into play within the lottery system.
Most IPS choice programs provide transportation within the district and have no entrance criteria, except for Sidener Academy for High Ability Students. These high-performing schools offer unique learning opportunities, meet enrollment goals, and quickly fill any open seats, which are in high demand both inside and outside of the IPS district.
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