Jun 27 2025

How Indianapolis Public Schools Are Using Cloud and AI Technology to Transform Education

Leveraging cloud computing and artificial intelligence, Indianapolis Public Schools is reshaping how teachers lead, how students thrive and how learning environments are built.

From automating data center operations to creating more flexible and scalable infrastructure, IPS frees up time and resources. This shift away from outdated technology resulted in more intentional work.

“We’re currently working on a generative AI pilot that’s made up of cross-functional teams,” says Ashley Cowger, chief systems officer at IPS. “If we hadn’t moved to the cloud, we wouldn’t have had the capacity to invest in something like this.”

With cloud access, educators and administrators are innovating faster, scaling smarter and creating learning environments that reflect what the 21st century demands — not just for the students but for the entire system.

“It’s not just about the technology; it’s about giving people time back to do bigger, more transformational things,” Cowger says.

FEATURED READING: Learn more about Indianapolis Public Schools' transition to the cloud.

Participants

    Chenzira Allen, Director of Digital Strategy Transformation, Indianapolis Public Schools

    John Young, Senior Systems Administrator, Indianapolis Public Schools

    Ashley Cowger, Chief Systems Officer, Indianapolis Public Schools

    Jeremy Wonson, Field CIO, CDW

Video Highlights

  • With help from CDW, Indianapolis Public Schools discovered that the cloud would be more flexible and scalable than a colocation solution with new hardware.
  • Moving from an on-premises data center to the cloud frees up IPS IT staff from maintenance to focus on strategic priorities that support students.
  • Artificial intelligence supports personalization and tutoring tools to propel learning as well as administrative and work efficiencies, such as managing finances and transportation.