Indianapolis, Indiana – Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) will celebrate the transformation of the George W. Julian Center for Inquiry at School 57 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, Dec. 3, at 10 a.m. The event marks one year since groundbreaking began on a series of major improvements designed to enhance the historic Irvington campus and elevate the student experience.
The renovations at George W. Julian School 57 reflect a broad commitment to safety, accessibility, and modern learning environments, positioning the school as a premier hub for education in the community. These upgrades were made possible through the $410 million IPS Rebuilding Stronger Capital Referendum, a district-wide investment initiative aimed at revitalizing schools across Indianapolis.
“George Julian is a beacon of excellence for students and families,” said IPS Superintendent Dr. Aleesia Johnson. “This past year, we’ve turned vision into reality by improving access, safety, and academic spaces while keeping the school’s historic charm intact. Today we celebrate not just buildings, but the limitless potential of every student walking these halls.”
Principal Camille Haley emphasized how the updates enhance the learning environment for students, many of whom thrive in spaces designed to reflect their curiosity, creativity, and leadership potential. Founded in 1903, George Julian is one of the oldest schools in the IPS system, and its updates aim to honor the school’s long-standing history while equipping students for the future.
“The updates to our campus—from upgraded classrooms to state-of-the-art learning spaces—allow us to serve them even better. George Julian is not just a school. It’s a launchpad for future leaders, thinkers, and innovators,” Haley said.
The renovations, overseen by J.S. Held, include upgraded carpeting, lighting, and communication systems, as well as the reimagining of key student areas to foster collaboration, creativity, and engagement. Exterior improvements focus on accessibility, campus traffic flow, and modernized entrances, creating a safe, welcoming, and world-class environment for students, staff, and families alike.
Beyond the physical upgrades, the investments signal IPS’s dedication to fostering an environment where students can reach their full potential. By combining modern facilities with the school’s historic character, the district aims to create a sense of pride and ownership for students while supporting teachers with the tools they need to deliver high-quality education.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony will serve as a celebration of not only the newly renovated spaces but also the broader vision for student success. Community members, district leaders, and families are invited to witness the transformation, which represents a milestone in the ongoing effort to ensure that IPS schools meet the highest standards for safety, accessibility, and learning.
As the George W. Julian Center for Inquiry enters this new chapter, the combination of historic charm and modern innovation sets the stage for a future where students are empowered to thrive academically, socially, and personally.
