By State Sen. Jeff Raatz (R-Richmond)
During the 2024 session of the General Assembly, I sponsored a bill that directed the Indiana State Board of Education to create new diploma requirements, updating a system that was created before personal computers and cell phones were in common use.
These updates were meant to give students the flexibility to do work-based learning, apprenticeships and non-traditional courses while ensuring the diploma requirements remain rigorous enough to prepare students for success in the job markets of today and the future, college or the military.
Students can earn an Enrollment, Employment and Enlistment Honors or Honors Plus seal. The first seal was developed with the help of Indiana Commission for Higher Education along with colleges and universities and many other stakeholders.
The second seal, designed for employment directly out of high school, was developed with a host of organizations including the Indiana Chamber of Commerce, Ascend Indiana, many business representatives across multiple industries and our colleges, considering they offer certifications that help create the skillset needed for success in many industries.
The third was developed with the Indiana National Guard alongside representatives from each military branch and public safety officials.
The Indiana State Board of Education made sure to consider the recommendations of K-12, higher education, business and industry leaders in making these updates. It can be difficult to come to a consensus on complex issues like this, but I am happy that key stakeholders are responding positively to them.
The second draft of the proposed changes will be finalized and posted on the IDOE website over the next few weeks, and another public comment period will follow. The final draft will 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.
