Errington comments on second draft of proposed high school diplomas
On Oct. 9, the State Board of Education (SBOE) and Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) released the second draft of the Indiana high school diploma proposal. Despite the numerous concerns voiced by legislators, educators, parents and students, the second draft does not address student transportation, counselor shortages, workplace safety or long-term funding.
State Rep. Sue Errington (D-Muncie) released the following statement regarding the second draft:
"It is disheartening that the SBOE and IDOE have neglected to implement any safety measures or address the vast number of logistical concerns noted by Hoosiers during the public comment period. This second draft fails to make any meaningful changes to improve the diplomas. Instead, it doubles down on gutting our state curriculum and thrusting students into a dangerously ill-defined work-learning environment.
"Following the first draft, I hosted a town hall in my district to gauge public opinion and hear the feedback of those in my community. My constituents cited many issues, including the lack of fine arts and language requirements, student safety at work sites and transporting students to and from these sites. I brought the feedback from my town hall directly to the SBOE during a public meeting on July 30, when I testified on the initial diploma proposal. Yet, despite my own testimony and that of many others, none of the major issues raised have been rectified. Hoosiers are rightfully worried about the negative impact this proposal could have on student education and safety.
"We must continue to raise our voices before these new diplomas are finalized. The IDOE is currently accepting comments and concerns on the second draft proposal until Nov. 8. Additionally, on Nov. 8, the IDOE will host another public commentary meeting where Hoosiers can provide direct feedback on the second diploma proposal. I encourage everyone to fill out the online form and provide testimony during public meeting to help ensure our children are given access to all the educational opportunities they deserve.
"If the IDOE passes this proposal through in its current state, they will have failed our students. Until substantive fixes are made to the proposal, I will remain steadfast on this issue."
The State Board of Education is accepting feedback on the proposed diplomas. All parents, students, educators and stakeholders are encouraged to share their concerns and can do so via the online form here.