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Carley Lanich

@carleylanich.bsky.social

238 followers 222 following 218 posts

Writing about all things Indianapolis education for Mirror Indy. Chat with me about preK-12 schools. Story ideas or tips? Reach me at carley.lanich@mirrorindy.org.

Posts Replies Media

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 01/10/2026

☀️Good morning to everyone who supports Indiana Local News Guild, @inlocalnewsguild.bsky.social!☀️ @tyfenwick.bsky.social did a fabulous job explaining to the Indianapolis Business Journal’s @317lindquist.bsky.social why we’re organizing. Check it out here: www.ibj.com/articles/wor...

Workers unionize at Mirror Indy and affiliated news organization - Indianapolis Business Journal

Workers at nonprofit news organization Free Press Indiana are seeking management recognition of a newly formed labor union.

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 24/09/2026

Meet the Wildcats. These teens are out to prove that football is a girls sport. It's tough, it's athletic & it's a place teammates find family. @mirrorindy.org spent time w/the Lawrence North flag team as it competes in what's poised to be Indiana's newest HS sport. mirrorindy.org/lawrence-nor...

Football is a girls sport. Lawrence North is proving it.

Inside one team’s quest to dominate a new high school sport in Indiana.

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

As part of a series of stories on America's 250th year, we asked high schoolers what it's like to grow up in America today. Teens had a lot to say! Check it out here, via @mirrorindy.org: mirrorindy.org/indianapolis...

We asked teens what it’s like to be a young person in America today

Here’s what teens say they’re thinking about as America celebrates its 250th year.

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 15/09/2026

Some exciting news from @theavgjourn.bsky.social: Kids Dance Outreach is expanding. Learn more about the nonprofit's plan to build in the Mapleton-Fall Creek neighborhood, via @mirrorindy.org: mirrorindy.org/kids-dance-o...

Kids Dance Outreach to build its first permanent home

The building, which will include a 180-seat performance space, will open in 2028 near The Children’s Museum.

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Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 14/09/2026

Early voting opens in just a couple of weeks in Marion County, and there's dozens of school board seats up this year. We teamed up with @chalkbeat.org & @wfyi.bsky.social to bring you this helpful guide on Indy races. Check it out here, via @mirrorindy.org: mirrorindy.org/vote/2026-sc...

2026 School Board Elections

Mirror Indy teamed up with Chalkbeat Indiana and WFYI to bring together everything you need to know about 2026 school board elections in Marion County.

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 10/09/2026

So, you've heard high school is changing — but what does that actually mean? @clairerafford.bsky.social & I break down the new requirements to graduate in Indiana and explain where schools are at in ramping up for these changes. Check it out here via @mirrorindy.org: mirrorindy.org/indiana-high...

How to navigate Indiana’s new high school graduation requirements

Teens have more choices than ever before to graduate. So where should you get started?

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 24/08/2026

The teens are bringing Walkmans and CD players to school again! 🥲 I visited Warren Central High School about a month into the school year under Indiana's new "bell-to-bell" cell phone ban. Here's how it's going, via @mirrorindy.org: mirrorindy.org/warren-centr...

An eastside school embraced cell phones. Then Indiana banned them.

At Warren Central High School in Indianapolis, kids are passing notes and bringing in CD players, but staff say phone use is low.

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Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 14/08/2026

School is back (yay!) ...which means so is homework (😕). Not every assignment has to be scary. If you're stuck on math problem or want feedback on an essay, there's help out there! Check out these free resources available to Indy students attending any school: mirrorindy.org/indianapolis...

Stuck on a homework problem? Check out these free resources.

These homework services offer tutoring for Indy students of all ages.

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 10/08/2026

Global Prep Academy is opening a new middle school this year. It comes amid looming talk school closures as Indy leaders try to right enrollment imbalances across the city. So what makes Global Prep popular? Here's what families had to say, via @mirrorindy.org: mirrorindy.org/global-prep-...

This Indy charter school is bucking enrollment trends

Why Global Prep Academy is opening a middle school this year.

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Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 07/08/2026

High school in Indiana is changing in a big way, and @clairerafford.bsky.social and I want to hear from you! What questions do you have about Indiana’s new high school graduation requirements? Your questions could help us with our future reporting! www.facebook.com/reel/2250233...

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Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 04/08/2026

An update today for IPS watchers: IPS deputy superintendent Andrew Strope is taking a leadership position with the Indianapolis Public Education Corp. That's the new group that will increasingly oversee transportation and buildings for IPS and charter schools. More here:

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 29/07/2026

OK, you've definitely seen the school supply lists. Back-to-school season is in full swing. But what do kids and teachers really need for success in the classroom? Some items might fall outside of that handy list. Here's what resource directors told @mirrorindy.org: mirrorindy.org/back-school-...

Beyond backpacks: What kids need that's not on the supplies list

Here’s what else educators say will set Indy students up for success this year.

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Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 23/07/2026

An update on IPEC's director search. The board unanimously approved Mayor Hogsett's director pick yesterday. Karega Rousch, CEO of the National Association of Charter School Authorizers, will be IPEC's first director. More here from our partners at @wfyi.bsky.social: www.wfyi.org/education/20...

Mayor picks national charter leader to head new agency over IPS, Indy charters

Karega Rausch, a longtime national charter school advocate, was unanimously chosen to lead Indianapolis's new agency overseeing both IPS and charter schools.

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 17/07/2026

Earlier this week, @mirrorindy.org told you what teens want to see most in Indy: more safe, fun places to hangout. Today, we introduce you to After Hours — a new late-night program trying to be that space. The best part? Teen voices are put first. Check it out: mirrorindy.org/aspire-highe...

After Hours: A new weekend hangout for Indy teens

Indy teens want more places to hang out. This nonprofit is stepping in.

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 16/07/2026

Some lunchtime news for IPS watchers: We now know the names of 6 candidates being considered to lead the new Indianapolis Public Education Corp. (That’s the new group that will oversee buildings and transportation for IPS and charter schools in the future) Here’s a look:

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 16/07/2026

🚨 Indy families: Bookmark this page! 🚨 Yes, I know, it's mid-July and we should all be thinking about the pool — but the first day of school is just around the corner! @mirrorindy.org put together a one-stop shop of back-to-school resources. Check it out here: mirrorindy.org/back-to-scho...

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 15/07/2026

Exciting news! ✨ The support org behind @mirrorindy.org is building something new. It's called FPI News, and its website goes live today! @fpinews.bsky.social statewide reporting team brings DECADES of experience covering Indiana communities, and their first stories are live now. Check it out! 👇

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 13/07/2026

I spent an afternoon last week asking kids in Indianapolis what they need from us. The big takeaway? With 'third spaces' like malls & arcades going away, teens really just want safe places to hang out. Here's a look at some of their ideas, via @mirrorindy.org: mirrorindy.org/indianapolis...

What kind of spaces do kids and teens really want in Indy?

From live music to sports teams, here’s what kids say is missing.

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 06/07/2026

Nothing says summer like the farmers market.☀️🍓 I recently dropped in on a different kind of market — one that's run entirely by kids! At this market, kids make their own products, sell them and take home what they earn. Here's a look, via @mirrorindy.org: mirrorindy.org/kids-markets...

This Indianapolis farmers market is run by kids

Kids Markets are just what they sound like — farmers markets run by kids.

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 25/06/2026

We're teaming up with @chalkbeat.org & @wfyi.bsky.social this year to cover Indy school board races, and we want to hear from you! What issues are most important to you? What questions do you have for school board candidates? Let us know here, via @mirrorindy.org: mirrorindy.org/indianapolis...

Marion County school board elections: Tell us what you want to know

It’s the first time school board candidates can declare a political party affiliation on the 2026 ballot

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Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 08/06/2026

School's out, summer's here and you're looking for something to do? ☀️ @mirrorindy.org curated a list of low-cost, easy-to-drop-in summer activities kids & teens will actually get excited about. Check it out: mirrorindy.org/teens-kids-t...

Here’s a dozen things to do with kids and teens this summer

School is out and you don’t have to shell out big bucks to have fun this summer.

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 04/06/2026

How did 4-year-old Ross Worthman shift his preschool nickname from 'the little sloth' to 'Best Friend to Play With' in less than a year? His mom credits the change to a program offered by the Edna Martin Christian Center. Read about it here via @mirrorindy.org: mirrorindy.org/edna-martin-...

Raising kids is hard. This eastside program is there to help.

This free program guides parents through developmental screenings and social services.

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Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 03/06/2026

🍎 BOOKMARK AND SHARE! 🥦 @mirrorindy.org has your interactive guide to where kids can get a free meal while school is out. We've got ~75 sites listed across all sides of the city. Here's what you need to know: mirrorindy.org/indianapolis...

Where kids can get free meals in Indianapolis this summer

Use this guide to find free meals in Center, Wayne and Warren townships.

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Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 29/05/2026

Did you know kids can be sent home from school if they're not up to date on vaccines? Usually it's a last resort. But new immunizations are usually required as students move through school. So what do kids need and when? @mirrorindy.org breaks it down: mirrorindy.org/indiana-scho...

Indy kids need vaccines to go to school

Here’s how to make sure your records are up-to-date before school starts.

Reposted by Carley Lanich

Jeff Brown @documenterjeff.bsky.social · 28/05/2026

Hello! This afternoon I will be posting live for today's Indianapolis Public Education Corporation Board meeting for #indydocumenters @indydocumenters.bsky.social #mirrorindy @mirrorindy.org

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 27/05/2026

A must-read story this morning from @clairerafford.bsky.social: mirrorindy.org/martin-unive...

Inside the financial problems that led to Martin University’s closure

Students and former employees say the university owes students money.

Reposted by Carley Lanich

Steven Slaubaugh @steven-slaubaugh.bsky.social · 26/05/2026

Mid-North Food Pantry is expanding summer hours - thanks to @carleylanich.bsky.social for highlighting the news in Mirror Indy!

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 18/05/2026

How does the town of Speedway manage when 350,000+ people come to town and need to use the bathroom in the same place around the same time? In true @mirrorindy.org fashion, @enriquesaenz.bsky.social breaks it down (pun very much intended): mirrorindy.org/speedway-ind...

IDEM to Speedway: Urine trouble

Race day crowds often push the town’s wastewater treatment plant past its pollutant limit. The solution will cost $14 million.

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 13/05/2026

Know a kid who can't stop asking questions? Here's an opportunity they won't want to miss! @mirrorindy.org is hiring youth reporters this summer. Kids must be 10-18 years old to apply and live in Indy. They'll get to work with a fun crew and get PAID! Details here: mirrorindy.org/youth-report...

Apply to be a summer youth reporter at Mirror Indy

Learn about journalism, cover stories in your Indianapolis neighborhood and get paid for your work. Applications are due May 26.

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 11/05/2026

Crispus Attucks alumni could hardly believe it when they heard about plans to expand Indy's historic high school. I spent some time last week talking to alumni and students about IPS' $44 million project. Check it out here, via @mirrorindy.org: mirrorindy.org/crispus-attu...

What a $44M plan to expand Crispus Attucks means for students

The new space will also feature labs for the Indianapolis high school’s IU Health fellowship program.

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Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 07/05/2026

Hard to believe it but summer is just around the corner, and that means summer reading is back! ☀️📚 @indylibrary.bsky.social's Summer Reading Program kicks off May 30. But you can register now to complete challenges & win prizes. Here's your guide to the 2026 program: mirrorindy.org/indianapolis...

Indy’s Summer Reading Program is back

The Indianapolis Public Library Program offers rewards for all ages.

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 05/05/2026

Y'all, the @mirrorindy.org team is killing it with live updates this morning! I love hearing what's on so many of my Indy neighbors' minds as they head in to vote. Check out all of that and an update on turnout so far this morning here 👇

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Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 05/05/2026

Good morning, Indy! It's primary election day 🇺🇸 Polls are open today 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Making a plan to vote? The @mirrorindy is visiting polling places and talking to voters throughout the day. Keep up with our live feed here: mirrorindy.org/indiana-prim...

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 29/04/2026

Catching up on things back in the office today including this story that published while I was out. Want to know more about the Indianapolis Public Education Corp? @mirrorindy.org teamed up with @chalkbeat.org & @wfyi.bsky.social to profile its members. Check it out: mirrorindy.org/indianapolis...

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 15/04/2026

The new Indianapolis Public Education Corp. officially has a website up and running. It's pretty bare bones - but if you're curious about what the board voted on yesterday or want to mark your calendar for future meetings, you can find it here: www.indianapolispubliceducationcorporation.com

indianapolispubliceducationcorporation.com

Home | Indianapolis Public Education Corp.

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Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 13/04/2026

Hey, IPS watchers! 📢 The newly formed Indianapolis Public Education Corporation meets for the first time tomorrow. Here's a quick look at what you need to know, via our partners at @chalkbeat.org: mirrorindy.org/indianapolis...

Indianapolis Public Education Corporation announces date and location for first meeting

A new governing body for Indianapolis schools will meet for the first time on April 14.

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 13/04/2026

"Adriana has been sober for ~2 years. She’s been accepted to a beauty school & says to help others feel good in their own skin, just like she has learned to do herself. 'This school changed my life,' Adriana told @mirrorindy.org." Read Adriana's story here: mirrorindy.org/hope-academy...

How an Indianapolis high school is helping students in recovery find purpose

For 20 years, Hope Academy has focused on teaching students with substance use disorder.

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 01/04/2026

🧵: It's no secret. Education can be difficult to follow in Indy. With ever increasing school choice, it can be a lot to keep up with! In her latest column, @poynterinstitute.bsky.social's Indy public editor looked at how education is covered across the city. (1/3) mirrorindy.org/public-edito...

Public Editor: Who covers education in Indy?

Parents have to work to find information about schools

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 31/03/2026

Of note: David Harris was selected to chair the new IPEC board. Harris is a key figure in the Indy charter movement. He was charter schools director under former Mayor Peterson & founded The Mind Trust. Harris resigned his board seat w/The Mind Trust today, per a statement from the nonprofit.

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 31/03/2026

📩 From the inbox: Mayor Joe Hogsett has named his appointments to the new board created to oversee transportation and facility services for Indianapolis schools. Here's a look:

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 24/03/2026

Arsenal Tech's football team is in training this offseason — exercising both the body & mind. It comes as part of a new mental resiliency program equipping teens with the skills needed to set goals & bounce back from difficult moments. More here via @mirrorindy.org: mirrorindy.org/arsenal-tech...

Here’s how athletes at Arsenal Tech are leveling up their mental health game

A partnership with Riley Children’s Health is bringing sports psychology to the east side.

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Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 20/03/2026

Indy teens — including some who are not old enough to vote themselves! — are signing up to work the polls this spring. And you can too! Here's a look at Marion County's youth poll worker program & other efforts to get young people civically engaged: mirrorindy.org/marion-count...

High school students are spreading the word about voting

Indy teens who aren’t old enough to vote can still help out at the polls. Here’s how.

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 03/03/2026

🧵: Rooted School Indy, an eastside charter school, is up for renewal soon. It's authorizer has concerns about academics & enrollment, signaling a difficult path to renewal. But that may not matter. The school is pursuing a new authorizer & things are moving fast. (1/2)

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 25/02/2026

🧵: Speculation is flying this week after parents of IPS' Eliza Blaker School 55 heard their school may be asked to share some teachers with another elementary school next year. It's a change IPS has made in a few elementaries already. One family told me the transition has been rocky. (1/2)

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 19/02/2026

After some delays, Warren Township has decided to move fifth graders back into elementary schools. It'll take some construction & more time than planners anticipated. So how do parents feel? Here's what three families had to say about the change, via @mirrorindy.org: mirrorindy.org/warren-towns...

Warren Township delays move of 5th graders into elementary schools

Here’s why the 9 elementary schools will become K-5 buildings in the 2027-28 school year.

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 11/02/2026

🧵: Thousands of Indy students walked out of their schools last week to protest ICE. The actions pushed educators across Indy to strike a balance between respecting free speech and facilitating student safety. (1/2)

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 10/02/2026

Snow days, student walkouts and big decisions about district budgets have all met Wayne Township's new superintendent Shenia Suggs in her first weeks on the job. So what's next for the new leader? @mirrorindy.org caught up with the 33-year educator to learn more. mirrorindy.org/wayne-townsh...

Big changes await Wayne Township’s new superintendent

Shenia Suggs talks academics, budgeting and planning for the future.

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 05/02/2026

Love this story from @theavgjourn.bsky.social about the Pike girls basketball team's remarkable season. They're on a 21-game win streak heading into the IHSAA state tournament.... and you've got a chance to see them play this Friday night! mirrorindy.org/pike-high-sc...

You need to go see Pike’s girls basketball team before it's too late

After a 21-game win streak, the team is chasing its first state championship.

Reposted by Carley Lanich

Mirror Indy @mirrorindy.org · 03/02/2026

Hundreds of students walk out of Central Indiana high schools on Feb. 2 to protest ICE. In addition to holding protests, students from the seven high schools released a letter sharing their purpose for the walkout: bit.ly/46sAMlM

Hundreds of students walk out of North Central to protest ICE

Students held a demonstration Feb. 2 at North Central High School on the north side of Indianapolis, blocking traffic along 86th Street.

Carley Lanich @carleylanich.bsky.social · 27/01/2026

The extreme cold is hard for everyone, but especially our neighbors facing housing insecurity. The good news? There's quite a few resources to help. I put together a guide of school based supports for @mirrorindy.org. Check it out here: mirrorindy.org/helping-home...

How to help Indy kids facing housing insecurity

Here’s 4 groups working to provide resources to students and their families.