INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — The Joyce Kilmer School 69 will be demolished to make room for a new elementary school. Indianapolis Public Schools announced that the school, on 34th Street and Keystone Avenue, will be taken down to build an elementary school for high-ability students, part of their Rebuilding Stronger initiative. “Rebuilding Stronger is not just about academics. It’s also about transforming spaces where students, staff, and families can thrive,” IPS superintendent Dr. Aleesia Johnson said in a press release. “The Joyce Kilmer project reflects our commitment to ensuring every child has access to a top-tier learning environment.” IPS estimates the cost of construction to be $35 million and plans to open the school for the 2027-28 school year. The new, 68,000-square-foot school will be able to serve 650 students. The plans – which include a media center, support spaces, and outdoor play areas – will update safety systems and create a dedicated space when picking up and dropping off students. “As the principal serving high-ability students within Indianapolis Public Schools, I am both excited and deeply optimistic about the opportunities presented by the new Joyce Kilmer School 69 building,” said Merle Sidener School 59 Principal Milanda Penn, who will shift to the new campus.  “The state-of-the-art facilities at Joyce Kilmer will allow us to provide an environment tailored to the unique academic, social, and emotional needs of our high-ability students,” Penn said. “With modern classrooms, specialized learning spaces, and advanced technology, we will be able to foster an environment that promotes curiosity, critical thinking, and collaboration, skills that will serve our students for a lifetime.” Demolition of Joyce Kilmer School 69 will be Jan. 27, at 10 a.m. Construction on the new school will begin in spring.