INDIANAPOLIS — Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) officials gathered Tuesday morning to break ground on renovations and new facilities at T.C. Howe Middle School.
The school district said this is the seventh groundbreaking event this year as part of their Rebuilding Stronger plan.
A few highlights of the construction include:
- Security updates, including the installation of car access and cameras
- Installation of a VOIP phone system and intercom
- A new turf football field
- Resurfaced track
- New softball and baseball fields
- New dugouts, batting cages, fences, and bullpens
- New goalposts, storage building, and concessions
- New restrooms, lighting and sound systems
- Mew “tip & roll” bleachers and grandstand improvements
- New accessible routes and drainage improvements
“On behalf of our teachers, families, and students at T.C. Howe, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the entire Indianapolis community,” Frances Rivera, T.C. Howe Middle School principal, said. “You are the reason we are standing here today celebrating the kickoff of these construction projects. Parents and teachers know that education is the best investment there is — and we’re so excited to show your dollars at work delivering rigorous academic curriculum and competitive athletics programs for our students.”
IPS officials said the renovations are expected to be finished in summer 2024. The school, located at 4900 Julian Ave. on the city's east side, will continue to operate as normal while construction is happening.
T.C. Howe is one of 23 schools undergoing renovations this year.
“I know there was a time when some families felt like IPS was the default option or their only option rather than their best option,” IPS Supt. Dr. Aleesia Johnson said. “But everyone standing beside me today — IPS teachers, principals, coaches — we want you to feel great about where your kids go to school. We are working hard to make our schools feel the way you dream about a school feeling — and we invite you to watch us work.”
IPS officials said the district will also be opening an IPS Primary Care Clinic inside T.C. Howe. This is in partnership with Ascension St. Vincent.
Officials said the clinic will provide health care services to IPS employees and their families.
It's scheduled to open in fall 2024.