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Raatz Roundup: Second draft of new diploma requirements finalized, seeking feedback

Second draft of new diploma requirements finalized, seeking feedback

By State Sen. Jeff Raatz (R-Richmond)

During the 2023 session of the General Assembly, I sponsored a law that directed the Indiana State Board of Education to create new high school diploma requirements. In August, the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) presented a revised proposal, which was published last week and takes into account previous feedback. IDOE is now seeking additional feedback from Hoosiers on this updated proposal.

Parents, educators, community members and other stakeholders are invited to provide feedback online until Nov. 8. A public hearing will be held that day at 10 a.m. in the Indiana Government Center South Conference Room B in Indianapolis, providing another opportunity to share ideas to be included in the final draft of the diploma changes.

The second draft starts with a base diploma and minimum requirements for every student. Students also have the opportunity to earn readiness seals aligned with their unique path, including Enrollment, Employment and Enlistment “honors” or “honors plus” seals. This will give students and their families the flexibility to design a high school course schedule that matches their interests and skills – whether that means multiple college-level courses, work-based learning, or a mix of both.

The final draft is set to be adopted by the end of the year and will take effect beginning with the class of 2029, although schools can choose to opt in early.

To learn more about the second draft, click here.

Constituents can reach out to me with any questions or concerns they may have by filling out a "Contact Me" form on the IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/Raatz website or by phone at 800-382-9467.

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State Sen. Jeff Raatz (R-Richmond) represents Senate District 27, which includes
Henry, Union and Wayne counties, and portions of Franklin County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.