The school takeover bill is largely about intensifying state takeover of the distressed Gary and Muncie schools. But it also creates new "fiscal indicators" for every school system.

The testimony was solely about a Gary-Muncie school takeover bill, the most controversial measure lawmakers will hear next week.

The district earned the debt after collecting federal taxes from employees but failing to pay the government.

Gary Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson says provisions limiting the power of school officials in her community are bad for government.

The district's chief financial officer said Gary was able to get the terms because the district is paying its bills on time.

As the clock struck midnight, the Senate had one more bill eligible for passage.

Democratic state senators from northern Indiana say a school finances bill that enforces more rules on the distressed Gary and Muncie districts will eliminate public participation in public school systems.

The state-appointed manager of the Gary Community School Corporation told state officials Friday the district faces an $18 million annual deficit.

An Indiana Senate committee has decided to postpone voting on a controversial school financials bill because of its effect on Muncie and Gary schools.

States have used different methods to reform urban districts in fiscal and financial peril. In Indiana, the controversial decision was made to give a single manager absolute power of the Gary Community School Corporation. But will it work?