Indiana diploma changes prompt concerns
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Indiana is overhauling its high school diploma system, moving toward a policy that allows greater freedom for experiential learning as the state continues to push for stronger alignment between the K-12 education system and the workforce.
Why it matters: The state needs to finalize new diplomas this year to get them into effect for the Class of 2029.
Driving the news: The latest framework for the workforce-focused diplomas was presented to the State Board of Education earlier this month.
- The proposal includes a foundation of courses that students would be expected to take in ninth and 10th grades, but much more flexibility in later grades.
- Some educators and board members expressed concern that the changes swing too far from academic considerations in favor of "employability" and won't adequately prepare college-bound students.
Zoom out: Indiana already has a college-going problem.
- While 76% of recent high school graduates said they intended to go onto some form of post-secondary education, only 53% did.
- This has created a related workforce problem, where Indiana struggles to provide enough high-skilled workers for the most in-demand jobs.
Between the lines: The debate over the new diplomas illustrates a larger one in education about the value of traditional four-year college degrees versus quicker-to-earn credentials.
- While there's agreement that more students should earn an education beyond high school, there is less agreement on what that should look like and how to prepare them for it.
What they're saying: "We are still in a first draft mode," Secretary of Education Katie Jenner said. "We will have to do a second draft and a final draft, so we are a ways away from landing this."
- "The ink is not dry at all. Now is the time for constructive feedback."
What's next: The state board will continue to discuss the proposal at its July 17 meeting.
- You can provide feedback here to the state Department of Education.