IPS Goes Pink for Breast Cancer Awareness: Celebrating Four Years of Impact

For the fourth consecutive year, Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) continues to stand in solidarity with individuals and families impacted by breast cancer through the districtwide IPS Goes Pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Initiative. Throughout October, students, staff, families, and community partners will come together to increase awareness, honor survivors, support those currently facing treatment, and remember loved ones lost to the disease.

The initiative is led by Annmarie Byers, Senior Strategist in the IPS Office of Strategic Educational Excellence, who has championed IPS Goes Pink as a personal passion and districtwide effort focused on education, support, and community connection.

“IPS Goes Pink is about awareness, education, compassion, and action,” said Mrs. Byers. “Pink is more than a color—it represents hope, strength, and the importance of taking care of ourselves and supporting one another. Every conversation, every ribbon, and every act of kindness can make a difference.

Districtwide Participation

Throughout October, IPS schools and departments will demonstrate their commitment to breast cancer awareness through meaningful activities, including:

• Students and staff across the district are wearing pink each Friday in October to show unity and support.
• Athletic teams are incorporating pink shoelaces, accessories, and awareness gear during games to encourage conversations about prevention and early detection.
• Schools are creating awareness displays, decorating bulletin boards, and sharing educational resources with students and families.
• Special luncheons and recognition events honoring staff members who are breast cancer survivors.
• Student activities, including letters of encouragement and other opportunities to support individuals and families affected by breast cancer.

Employee Wellness and Community Engagement

IPS will also continue its partnership with the Ascension St. Vincent Mobile Screening Program, providing on-site 3D mammography services for employees. This partnership helps reduce barriers to preventive care by allowing staff members to access annual breast cancer screenings during approved work schedules, supporting early detection and overall wellness.

By bringing these resources directly to IPS locations, the district continues to encourage employees to prioritize their health and take proactive steps toward prevention.

Continuing the Mission

The impact of IPS Goes Pink continues to grow because of the commitment and compassion of the IPS community. Over the past four years, thousands of students, staff members, families, and community partners have helped spread awareness, encourage early detection, and provide support to those affected by breast cancer.

Through education, advocacy, wellness initiatives, and community partnerships, IPS remains dedicated to creating a culture of care and supporting the health and well-being of students, employees, and families across the district.

For more information about IPS Goes Pink or opportunities to become involved, please contact:

Annmarie Byers
Senior Strategist, Office of Strategic Educational Excellence
Email: byersa@ips.org

Breast Cancer Awareness Resources

• American Cancer Society – Breast Cancer Education Resources
  https://education.cancer.org
• Know Your Lemons – Early Breast Cancer Detection Education
  https://share.google/Lv7z3ce2BPRXGLwE6
• National Breast Cancer Foundation
  https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer
• Pink-4-Ever
  https://www.pink-4-ever.org/
• Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Awareness Resources
  https://share.google/d9OMKtOf1Amtr9mdH
• MORE THAN PINK WALK -OCT 3, 2026 Susan Komen Website