Improving K-12 Math Instruction

In recent years, Indiana has focused on finding more ways to improve reading instruction in K-12 education.

Since implementing these measures, Hoosier students have seen significant success. According to the 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress, our state's reading scores improved from 19th to 6th in the nation among fourth graders and from 17th to 6th among eighth graders.

Now we are taking what we've learned from that success and applying it to math instruction. Just like reading, math is a foundational part of education to help Hoosier students succeed in the future.

This year, Senate Republicans supported a new law that will help students build stronger math skills through the following efforts.

• House Enrolled Act 1634 strengthens training for future teachers so they are better equipped to teach math effectively.
• Starting in the 2026-2027 school year, public and private schools will give a math screener to students in K-2 to ensure they are on the right track.
• If a student in K-8 is found to score below their grade level in math, schools must provide targeted, differentiated support to help them catch up.
• Public middle schools will automatically enroll students into advanced math courses if they excel on ILEARN and earn good grades in math, unless a parent opts the student out.

By ensuring Hoosier students get a strong start earlier on in both reading and math, we will be able to give them the tools they need to succeed later in life. HEA 1634 is another important step toward improving our education system so that every Hoosier student has an opportunity for success.