Nov. 16, 2007
Ballard reinforces his support for Indianapolis Charter Schools

Today, Indianapolis Mayor-elect Greg Ballard told more than 20 charter school leaders that he believes charter schools are good for the community and that he fully supports Indiana's charter schools. Ballard made his comments at a meeting sponsored by GEO's Charter School Service Center and hosted by the Christel House Academy, one of the city's first charter schools.

Nearly every charter school leader in Indianapolis attended the meeting and shared their thoughts about the future of charter schools in the city. Despite his busy schedule, Ballard devoted about an hour of his day to meet with the area school leaders. Ballard listened to leaders share their mutual concerns about transportation and capital funding, as well as their support for continuity in the current Mayor's charter school authorization process. Ballard agreed to look into many of the questions posed and asked that leaders follow up with his newly formed transition team.

Janet McNeal, an administrator from Herron High School said, “It gives students a sense of pride to know that their Mayor supports them.”

Ballard stated that he does have high standards and expects charter schools to perform and that he believes they are currently performing at high levels. Barring any surprises, he promised that charter schools will stick around in Indianapolis.