The new outdoor classrooms will be built at Wendell Phillips School 63 in Indianapolis.

Indianapolis Public Schools Board will hold public interviews for the next superintendent on June 18.

After two school shootings last year, lawmakers named mental health services in schools a top priority. Many schools across the state say they need more: more counselors, therapists, funding and support.

The application window closed on Friday for Indianapolis Public Schools' open superintendent position. The board plans to select a final candidate by mid-June.

This decision breaks with years of growing this model, district leaders say this does not signal a shift in policy.

WFYI Education Desk reporter Carter Barrett spoke with Taylor Bennett about what the bill could mean for the future of the site.

A report presented to the Indianapolis Public Schools board says commissioners should look for a superintendent with experience in an urban environment, connections to Indianapolis, and a successful track record.

The programs leaders say it focuses on hands-on experience, mentorship and feedback for its students.

Officials say the grant will help close the gap between the need for skilled employees and the skills people need to reach the "jobs of the future."

The district plans to hold at least three community input sessions before the search for a new superintendent begins.