Indiana is forging ahead with a new K-12 school accountability model that will give schools letter grades this year for the first time since 2018.
The State Board of Education unanimously approved the accountability system on Wednesday following eight months of feedback.
Officials said the new point-based system focuses on student performance beyond academics, including attendance, civic, digital and financial literacy. They said it will also be easier for parents to understand.
Points would be awarded for various student achievements such as reading and math proficiency, good attendance, work-based credentials, and for passing college entrance exams.
Last year, the legislature approved House Bill 1498 that charged the Department of Education with developing the new accountability model to be implemented this year.
Since June, the state board has held multiple public comment periods, received more than 800 online comments, and held three public hearings.
The consistent themes showed broad support for elevating a variety of knowledge, skills, and experiences that come together to help a student’s future success.
The new accountability model is aligned to the state’s new diploma based on a new set of standards that take effect with the Class of 2029.
The key characteristics identified in the new accountability system include academic mastery, career and postsecondary readiness, communication and collaboration, work ethic, and civic, financial and digital literacy.
The new model must be approved by the state attorney general’s office and signed by Braun.
Grades are expected to be announced in December.
Carole Carlson is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.
