Choose Your IPS

Find the Right School for Your Child in Indianapolis

From Montessori and Dual Language to STEM and International Baccalaureate, Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) is home to more than 70 schools and eight education models in our elementary and middle schools, and more than 32 academic pathways in our high schools. Whether you’re enrolling for the first time, transferring, or exploring your options, Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) will guide you every step of the way.

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Education Programs

Indianapolis Public Schools Offers More Than You Might Expect

IPS isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our schools offer a wide range of educational approaches, so you can find the model that fits your child’s learning style, your family’s values, and your neighborhood. Here’s what’s available at each level.

Elementary & Middle School: Find the Model That Fits Your Student

IPS elementary and middle schools span Indianapolis neighborhoods and offer eight distinct education models. Whether your child thrives in project-based learning, language immersion, or accelerated academics, there’s a school built for them. Many schools offer multiple grade bands — Pre-K–5 for elementary schools and grades 6–8 for middle schools; open houses are held each fall and winter. You can also explore our Innovation Network Schools (K–6 or K–8).

Alternative & Special Education Programs

IPS is committed to serving every student. The district provides a full range of special education services and alternative learning environments for students who need additional support, different structures, or personalized plans. If your child has an IEP or specific learning needs, IPS has resources and dedicated staff to help you find the right placement.

Learn about Alternative Options

School Finder

Looking for a School Near You?

IPS uses a zone-based enrollment system. Here’s how it works and how to find the right school for your family.

How the IPS Zone System Works

Every address in Indianapolis falls within an IPS enrollment zone. Your zone determines your neighborhood school, but it doesn’t limit your options.

1. Find your zone. Use the interactive map or search by your address to see which of the four IPS zones you live in.
2. Explore schools in your zone. Every zone has multiple schools, often with different education models to choose from.
3. Apply to any school. You can apply to any IPS school, even outside your zone, through the Enroll Indy application process. Seats are available based on enrollment and the school’s application process.

School List

Enrollment

How to Enroll in Indianapolis Public Schools

Enrolling in IPS is done through Enroll Indy, the district’s centralized application system. The process is the same whether you’re enrolling for the first time, transferring from another school, or moving from a different district. For IPS school or registration questions, you can access our Service Center by calling 317.226.4000.

1. Find Your School

Use the school finder and zone map to identify the schools available to your family, then browse models that match your child’s interests and needs.

2. Check Enrollment Dates

IPS runs an open enrollment period each year, typically in November through April. Some specialty programs have earlier deadlines, so confirm dates for your schools of interest.

3. Apply Through Enroll Indy

Submit your application through the Enroll Indy platform. You can apply to multiple IPS schools in a single application and rank your preferences.

4. Confirm & Complete Registration

Once your seat is secured, Enroll Indy will email you a PowerSchool registration link. Fill out your student information by submitting required documents including proof of residency, immunization records, and birth certificate.

Detailed Enrollment Process Begin Your Enrollment Application Enrollment FAQs Contact and Enrollment Specialist

Why Indianapolis Public Schools

An IPS Education Goes Further Than You Think

IPS isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our schools offer a wide range of educational approaches, so you can find the model that fits your child’s learning style, your family’s values, and your neighborhood. Here’s what’s available at each level.

IPS schools are woven into the fabric of Indianapolis, with each offering students something genuinely distinctive. Here’s what sets IPS apart.

World-Class Academic Programs

IPS is one of the few districts in Indiana with accredited IB programs at multiple grade levels. Our district also offers dual language education from pre-K through high school.

STEM & Career Pathways

From dedicated STEM schools to robust Career & Technical Education programs in engineering, healthcare, the arts and more, IPS prepares students for the jobs of today and tomorrow.

Creative & Arts-Integrated Learning

IPS goes beyond electives. Visual and Performing Arts schools, Reggio-inspired programs, and arts integration across the district give students space to develop creativity as a core academic skill.

Schools in Your Neighborhood

From Broad Ripple to Fountain Square, Irvington to the near-westside, IPS has schools across every corner of Indianapolis. Your neighborhood school is a cornerstone of the community and a launchpad for a successful life.

Real Choice, Real Options

With eight education models and dozens of schools to choose from, IPS gives Indianapolis families the kind of school choice that used to require leaving the public school system entirely.

Deep Community Roots

IPS has served Indianapolis for over 150 years. Our schools are at the heart of their communities, shaping generations of students and families.

Learn about IPS

Making the Right Decision for Your Family

Should You Choose A Public School in Indianapolis?

It’s one of the most common questions parents ask, and it deserves an honest answer. Here’s what families actually want to know.

Should I choose public or private school for my kindergartner?

For many Indianapolis families, the answer is IPS. Public schools offer free, accredited education with the same or better program variety (like Montessori, IB, and dual language) as many private options. Private schools have their advantages, but if the draw is specialized programming or a smaller environment, IPS schools like Thomas Gregg Neighborhood School or Joseph J. Bingham School 84 can offer surprisingly comparable experiences at no tuition cost.

Are Indianapolis public schools safe?

Student safety is a priority across every IPS school. The district supports consistent safety practices, trained staff, and resources focused on student well-being. Each school builds on these foundations to support a safe and caring environment for its students. We encourage families to visit schools to experience that environment firsthand.

What makes Indianapolis Public Schools different from other districts?

IPS is a school choice district. That means families can apply to any school in the district, not just the one nearest to their home. This model, combined with eight education approaches across the district, gives Indianapolis families more genuine options than most comparable cities in Indiana.

How do I know if IPS is right for my child?

Start by exploring the education models and finding schools that align with how your child learns. Then visit. IPS schools hold open houses throughout enrollment season, and all principals and staff welcome tours. The best way to know if a school is right for your family is to walk through the front door. Use our school finder to get started.

The bottom line

Public education in Indianapolis has changed. IPS offers world-language programs, STEM academies, arts-integrated schools, and early college pathways that families once had to leave the district — or the city — to find. Before you look elsewhere, it’s worth finding out what IPS has that fits your child.

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