Indy Standard

Mike Akers, assistant principal at William McKinley School 39, reflected on his nearly three-decade career with Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) in a recent Q&A session. Akers began his work with the district in 1997 as a student teacher at Broad Ripple High School and has since served in various roles across several schools.

He recalled being chosen to relaunch the football program at George Washington High School when it became a community school for grades 6–9 in the early 2000s. After four years as head coach, Akers moved into administration, starting as an academic dean at Arlington High School in 2006–07. He has now spent 20 years in administrative positions within IPS.

Akers described his current responsibilities: "As the assistant principal, my roles are typically all-encompassing. I am the PowerSchool guru, so to speak, for the building. I like to handle discipline, PAR for case conferences, and interacting with families. Of course, being visible to all the staff and kids plays a major role."

He shared his motivation for working at IPS: "I have a passion for working with kids. I always say they do more for me than I can ever do for them."

On why he values education and chose this career path, Akers said: "Education opens so many doors. I wanted to help young people. It just so happens I have also helped adults attain their career goals as well, whether it be in administration or as teacher leaders."

A significant achievement he noted was leading Broad Ripple High School through state accountability challenges: "I was principal at Broad Ripple High School the year after the state takeover for consistently failing state requirements. With nothing but hard work from staff and the district, we were able to go from an F to a B in the state’s accountability system."

Akers also discussed returning to work after a health setback last year: "I had a serious health setback in November of 2024. It kept me away from what I love to do. I have only been back in the building since the third week of school. It is beginning to feel normal again. Needless to say, this has been good for my mental health."

Regarding IPS’s Rebuilding Stronger initiative, he said: "There are so many more opportunities for students and families, which bodes well for the district."

For new educators or staff members joining IPS, Akers advised: "There are many amazing professionals in every building within the district. I would advise them to ask for help when needed, regardless of what the issue is. Someone will certainly have a word of wisdom. You have to take care of yourself, physically and mentally, to do this work."

His final message emphasized making each day count: "Live each day to the fullest. Get everything out of it that you can get because tomorrow isn’t guaranteed to anyone. Enjoy all you do when away from the school environment. Spending time with family and friends is the best way to do so."