The Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) Board of School Commissioners is heading to the polls on Nov. 3, 2026, with fifteen candidates—including a write‑in—seeking five of the seven seats. All five incumbents are running for re‑election, and the race marks the first time IPS candidates can list a party affiliation on the ballot.
Election Mechanics and New Partisan Option
For the first time since the mayor‑appointed board was created to manage key city‑school functions, IPS voters will see partisan designations beside candidate names. A overwhelming majority of the candidates have entered as Democrats, a stark contrast to much of central Indiana where partisan school‑board races are rare.
Voters residing anywhere within IPS boundaries may cast a vote for the at‑large seat. The four district seats require voters to live in the respective district to vote in that race.
District Layout and Candidate Count
Three of the contested districts cover the northern half of the IPS area: District 5 to the west, District 3 in the central portion, and District 2 in the east. District 4 represents the southwestern part of the district. The most crowded contests feature four candidates each in District 3 and for the at‑large seat. District 5 has three candidates, District 2 has two, and District 4 has one official candidate plus a write‑in challenging a ballot removal in court.
Key Dates and Voter Resources
Voter registration is open through Oct. 5. Residents can verify their registration status and sign up at the Marion County voter portal. Early voting begins Oct. 6 at the Indianapolis City‑County Building, with additional sites opening Oct. 24. On Election Day, polls operate from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. at any of the county’s voting centers.
Chalkbeat Indiana and WFYI have conducted a survey of each candidate to help voters understand their positions. A candidate forum is scheduled for Oct. 19 at the Indianapolis Public Library Central Branch (40 E St Clair St). Interested voters can RSVP via the provided link.
Board Responsibilities and Upcoming Tax Measure
The IPS board sets district policies, establishes goals, and makes certain financial decisions, including hiring and overseeing the superintendent. The newly formed Indianapolis Public Education Corporation (IPEC) now handles many operational duties previously managed by the board, such as building maintenance, transportation and the authority to place a tax measure on the ballot.
Alongside the school‑board races, a tax referendum will appear on the Nov. 3 ballot. Officials estimate the district will need to cut roughly $20 million from its budget even if the measure passes, making the outcome critical for future school financing.
How to Stay Informed
For detailed candidate bios, policy positions and contact information, readers can visit the Chalkbeat Indiana and WFYI election guide at the Mirror Indy website. Questions about voting locations or registration can be directed to the Marion County Board of Elections.
Contact WFYI Government Reporter Caroline Beck at [email protected] for further information.
Original reporting: Mirror Indy — read the source article.
