Proposed efforts to turn public schools into charters raises concerns in northeast Indiana

Under proposed House Bill 1136, Indiana public school corporations would be dissolved and replaced with charter schools if more than 50% of students living within their boundaries are enrolled elsewhere. Although the bill is projected to impact only five districts, concerns about its implications have arisen among educators and community leaders reported the Journal Gazette.

Kent DeKoninck, superintendent of Southwest Allen County Schools, warned the bill could divert public funds from traditional public schools and raise questions about accountability and governance. Charter schools’ selective admissions processes were also criticized.

While Allen County districts fall short of the 50% threshold, Hamilton Community Schools in Steuben County narrowly surpasses it, enrolling 52% of students within its boundaries. However, Superintendent Bill Reichhart expressed confidence his district would remain unaffected, citing reassurances from lawmakers.

Authored by Rep. Jake Teshka (R-North Liberty) and co-authored by Reps. Jeffrey Thompson (R-Lizton) and Timothy O’Brien (R-Evansville), the bill outlines procedures for dissolving and reorganizing affected districts. Sixty-eight schools, including those in Gary and Indianapolis, could convert to charters under the legislation.

Critics, including the Greater Indianapolis NAACP, argue the bill threatens public education and community involvement. Fort Wayne Community Schools board members urged parents to voice opposition, emphasizing the importance of public schools for equitable and inclusive education.