My name is Savanna Lyles, As a mom of three children enrolled in Michigan City Area Schools (MCAS), a dedicated MCAS ambassador, and a proud Wolf Pack mentor, I witness firsthand the incredible potential of our youth. Each day, I see the passion and determination these young minds bring to their education. They are bright, resilient, and eager to learn. However, they require the resources and support to fulfill their limitless potential.

Recently, our community encountered a pivotal moment when it voted on a critical school operating referendum. This initiative was designed to address the significant gaps left by changes to Indiana's property tax law, which have deeply impacted our local schools, leaving us faced with million of more dollars to cut from our school budget. The referendum failed by a heartbreaking margin of just around 100 votes. 

This is devastating not only for our students but also for our dedicated teachers, support staff, families and the future of our community. As a Michigan City Area Schools alumna, I understand deeply the value of the education provided by our local schools. Now, as a parent, I have witnessed the challenges these institutions face from firsthand experience.

In the face of this setback, I call on Google to invest in Michigan City’s educational infrastructure. Google has the capacity to make a significant difference in our community. By allocating resources to our schools, they can provide essential support for initiatives that will empower our teachers, enrich our educational programs, and equip our students with the tools they need to excel.

Why I'm asking Google

Google is building an $832 million data center at 402 Royal Road, 0.7 miles from Krueger Middle School.  They are our neighbor, and they have the means to help the kids who live and learn right next to them. Our schools are facing millions in cuts, and I'm asking Google to step up.

Google's investment can include funding for updated technology, innovative learning programs, and enhanced professional development for teachers. Moreover, Google’s support can foster an environment where every student has the chance to succeed, regardless of economic challenges.

Our students deserve opportunities to thrive and to feel proud of the educational experiences they receive. By stepping up as a partner in education, Google can help transform Michigan City into a shining example of community-driven educational excellence that is supported by forward-thinking corporations.

Specifically, I’m  asking Google to:

1. Create the Michigan City Education Legacy Fund, with annual contributions for as long as Project Maize operates.
   2. Hold community workshops with parents, students, and educators to decide together how the money should be used. The people closest to our kids know best what they need.
   3. Work directly with MCAS leaders to put those dollars where kids feel it most, such as class sizes, transportation, student support, and programs.
   4. Share a public report every year so families can see exactly what the fund is doing.

Please join me in asking Google to invest in the future of Michigan City’s children. By signing this petition, you lend your voice to a cause that champions education, community, and the potential of every child in our schools. Together, we can make a lasting impact on their lives and our community as a whole.