Errington cautiously optimistic regarding updated diploma proposals, thanks constituents for their involvement
INDIANAPOLIS – On Aug. 14, the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) released a second draft of the new, proposed high school diplomas. The second draft removes the GPS Diploma and GPS Diploma Plus options and instead offers one base diploma. Students can now obtain Honors and Honors Plus readiness seals in the following categories: enlistment and service, employment, and enrollment. These changes follow a public comment period in which educators, parents, students and legislators shared their concerns about the lack of arts and humanities and required external employment.
State Rep. Sue Errington (D-Muncie) released the following statement regarding the updated draft proposals:
“Parents, students and educators from Delaware County turned out to voice their concerns about the proposed high school diplomas. I want to thank these dedicated individuals in my community who attended town halls and meetings and submitted their feedback directly to the State Board of Education.
“The Honors and Honors Plus readiness seals address a significant concern surrounding the initial diploma draft regarding college readiness. Indiana students have a right to a rigorous and well-rounded education. The addition of the Honors Plus diploma offers flexibility while providing a pathway for students wishing to pursue higher education.
“However, the addition of the readiness seals poses an entirely new problem. Indiana is the first state to adopt these readiness seals. We have no idea if these seals will be recognized in other states. When applying to out-of-state colleges, Hoosier students may still not be competitive despite the changes in the second draft.
“Additionally, the IDOE has not offered solutions to the safety and liability concerns associated with students entering the workforce, a requirement for students working toward the Honors or Honors Plus seals. The safety of our students is of the utmost importance, and we must take the proper measures to ensure their safety when they are away from school property.
“Overall, I'm grateful to the Department of Education for acknowledging the public's concerns. As we continue to deliberate on our state's new diploma requirements, students, parents and everyone who has a stake in the education of Hoosiers must remain involved throughout the process. I'm excited for further developments to our diplomas that offer students flexibility while fostering their academic growth.”
The latest diploma proposal is not yet available on the Indiana Register. IDOE and SBOE will open another public comment period with an online portal and public forum, expected this fall. The final rule on the new diploma must be adopted by December 31, 2024.