Harris testifies on second draft of high school diploma proposal

Today, Nov. 8., the Indiana State Board of Education (SBOE) met to discuss the second draft of proposed changes to the Indiana high school diploma. At this meeting, SBOE accepted public testimony to close out the public comment period.

 State Rep. Earl Harris Jr. (D-East Chicago) issued the following statement following his testimony to SBOE:

“It’s concerning that, despite months of public feedback, the second draft still leaves critical issues unresolved. I’ve heard from parents, educators and students in my district about the lack of clarity and support in this proposal, and many of their concerns remain unaddressed.

“One key issue is the impact this proposal will have on students with individualized education plans (IEPs). These students are being overlooked in a system that is rushing to implement changes without proper planning or consideration for the resources they need. It's troubling that companies may not be equipped to understand or implement IEPs, especially considering the widespread counselor shortage and the fact that many people, may not fully understand what an IEP entails until these plans were brought up in SBOE public meetings. The proposal lacks clear guidance on how work-based learning sites will ensure these students receive the necessary accommodations. We need a more thoughtful approach—one that ensures equity for all students, particularly those who require additional support.

“I’m also troubled by the lack of rigor in this draft. This isn’t about a simple name change for diplomas; it’s about maintaining the high academic standards that help prepare our students for the future. Unfortunately, the current proposal fails to address how we will maintain that rigor while providing real, sustainable work-based learning opportunities. Also, what about the background checks required for these work placements? Students' safety is paramount, yet there's no mention of whether employers will be required to conduct these checks to ensure a safe environment. While the proposal includes provisions for these experiences, there is no requirement to ensure that students are actually hired or placed in meaningful jobs, nor is there clarity on how transportation to these sites will be handled.

“Another significant concern is funding. The proposal suggests that schools would need to prepare students for this program in half of the school year, but there is no clear funding mechanism to support the staffing and resources required to make this happen. Schools are already stretched thin, and this proposal doesn’t provide the necessary financial support to implement these changes effectively.

“We must ask: Why the rush to implement this without ensuring we have the right resources and structures in place? We can’t afford to compromise the quality of education for our students. I encourage everyone to continue to provide feedback and raise their voices to ensure that the final version of this proposal meets the needs of all students, not just a select few. The stakes are too high for us to accept anything less than a comprehensive, well-thought-out plan.”

Chronic Obesity Stakeholders Meeting highlights collaborative efforts to tackle public health challenges

Last week, on Oct. 31,  Rep. Robin Shackleford (D-Indianapolis), the Ranking Minority Member of the Public Health Committee co-hosted the first Chronic Obesity Stakeholders meeting alongside the Chairman of the Public Health Committee, State Rep. Brad Barrett (R-Richmond). The meeting brought together key experts and community leaders to address the pressing issue of obesity in Indiana by developing legislative strategies and policy interventions.

Recent statistics from the Indiana Health Department reveal that 71% of Indiana adults are overweight or have obesity, and 32.5% of Indiana youth face similar challenges. Indiana State Health Commissioner, Dr. Lindsay Weaver shared an example to illustrate this further - 71% of Indiana’s population could fill up Lucas Oil Stadium 66 times. The statewide adult obesity rate in Indiana stands at 43.6% (2018-2023), underscoring the urgent need for action to combat this critical public health issue. Alarmingly, obesity rates are notably higher in minority communities compared to rural areas, highlighting a significant health disparity that must be addressed.

The meeting featured presentations from: 

• The Indiana Department of Health;

• Life Sciences Consulting, Global Data, American Diabetes Association; 

• Franciscan Health’s Cardiology Department; 

• Jump in for Healthy Kids; 

• Feeding Indiana’s Hungry; 

• Indiana State Chapter of the ASMBS; and 

• The Diabetes Impact Project. 

Highly respected organizations gave testimonials, including: 

• Eli Lilly; 

• Marion County Health Department; 

• IU Health; Major Health Partners; 

• Joie de Vivre Medical; 

• Indiana Minority Health Coalition; 

• Eskenazi Health; and 

• Central Indiana Building Trades. 

These respected groups emphasized the necessity of immediate action, explaining the life-altering impacts of obesity, particularly among youth. Public comments were also given by individuals who expressed their concerns about addressing obesity in Indiana.

The discussions emphasized that the effects of obesity extend far beyond weight. It can lead to severe health complications and a diminished quality of life. 

Top legislative recommendations discussed include: 

• Medicaid coverage for weight loss medication; 

• Increased funding for community health workers to assist diabetic patients; 

• Implementation of nutrition and exercise standards in childcare facilities; 

• Expansion of the ISDH Produce Rx and Health First Programs; 

• Reduction of weight bias; 

• Offer insurance coverage and wellness programs for obesity care at parity with other chronic diseases; and 

• Invest in community-based programs and education campaigns.

Rep. Shackleford released the following statement on the meeting:

“I want to express my gratitude to everyone who participated in this meeting by sharing their insights and personal experiences. Your dedication to addressing this critical public health issue is deeply appreciated. 

“Heartbreaking testimonies revealed the drastic measures some young individuals have to take, with the youngest participant undergoing bariatric surgery at just four years old. If weight loss medications were covered under Medicaid, many of these children might have avoided such invasive procedures, highlighting the need for access to effective treatments.

“As we look ahead to the upcoming legislative session, I am committed to utilizing your recommendations to inform our efforts. 

“Tackling chronic obesity is not merely a health concern—it’s a collective challenge that demands our united action. Together, we can develop effective strategies that will foster healthier communities across Indiana.”

Andrade celebrates INDOT community crossing matching grants to improve District 12 roads and bridges

On Nov. 7, Gov. Eric Holcomb and the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) announced the recipients of the Fall 2024 Community Crossings Matching Grant Program. Nearly $140 million was awarded through the program, which is funded by the state’s local road and bridge matching fund.

Several communities in House District 12 will receive Community Crossings grants for Fall 2024. These funds can be used to build and improve local infrastructure projects, including roads and bridges.

The matching grant winners and amounts include:

Griffith: $325,000.00

Munster: $660,442.49

Schererville: $1,048,124.52

State Rep. Mike Andrade (D-Munster) issued the following statement celebrating the funding awardees:

“I am excited to share that House District 12 will receive almost $4 million in state funding for crucial community infrastructure improvements. This investment will go towards repairing roads and bridges, as well as initiating new projects to enhance our community. I am dedicated to securing the resources needed to strengthen our infrastructure and provide communities with the support necessary to drive transformative projects.”

Indiana House Democrats announce leadership team

Indiana House Democrats today reelected State Rep. Phil GiaQuinta (D-Fort Wayne) to serve as the Indiana House Democratic Leader. This will be GiaQuinta's fourth term as Leader, having first assumed the position in 2018.

GiaQuinta will serve alongside State Rep. Cherrish Pryor (D-Indianapolis) and State Rep. Carey Hamilton (D-Indianapolis), who were reelected as Minority Floor Leader and Minority Caucus Chair, respectively.

“I'm thankful that House Democrats have once again entrusted me to lead our efforts at the Statehouse to protect our freedoms and build up Indiana's working class. As we enter next year's budget session, Indiana House Democrats' priorities are the same as they always have been: people before profit. That means fully funding our public schools, keeping healthcare costs low and empowering our local communities to better become places where people want to live, work, play and stay.

"Given state and national election outcomes for Democrats, I'm proud we defended all 30 of our incumbent seats. I always say that House Democrats are pragmatic problem solvers. Our constituents clearly understand that we approach our work in the legislature by putting solutions before partisanship – and that will be no different this upcoming legislative session."

Indiana House Democratic Caucus leadership positions went into effect immediately following an internal election this afternoon.

The 124th General Assembly will convene for the ceremonial start of session on Nov. 19, otherwise known as Organization Day.

Klinker presents Sagamore of the Wabash Award to David M. Stevenson

On Sunday (Nov. 2), State Rep. Sheila Klinker (D-Lafayette) presented the Sagamore of the Wabash Award to longtime Lafayette resident, David M. Stevenson. Stevenson is a U.S. Air Force veteran who served in Guam during the Korean War. He and his late wife, Connie, are well-known for starting three broadcasting stations and for their service to the community. Originating in the 1940s, the Sagamore of the Wabash Award is the highest honor a Hoosier can receive from the governor of Indiana. 

Rep. Klinker released the following congratulatory statement: 

“It was my pleasure to present David Stevenson with a Sagamore of the Wabash award. David has been a force of positive reinforcement in the Tippecanoe County area. He and his late wife ministered at local churches, fundraised for veterans and started the Triangle Foundation to support non-profit humanitarian projects abroad. Along with the good he did with his wife, he’s a veteran who served two years in the Air Force during the Korean War. It was an honor to recognize David with a Sagamore for his profound commitment to our community. 

“Anyone in our community who’s had the opportunity to speak with him knows the interesting life he’s led. He traveled the country in an Airstream RV with his wife, photographed rockets for NASA, sang in Russia and traveled to 26 countries. Like David, I believe that living a life full of service is a great use of our time on God’s Earth. I thank Mr. Stevenson and the late Connie Stevenson for their contributions to the public and the impact they've made on Lafayette.”

Dant Chesser unveils plan for government ethics legislation

In the wake of former Clark County Sheriff Jamey Noel's sentencing to 15 years in prison for his misuse of local fire and EMS funds, State Rep. Wendy Dant Chesser (D-Jeffersonville) today unveiled her plans to offer a government ethics legislative package during the 2025 legislative session.

“As a taxpayer, it’s extremely frustrating to learn that the hard-earned money you gave to your local government was misused,” Dant Chesser said. “We need to protect against this abuse, and I am prepared to start ensuring accountability in our public processes. These will be the first of many proposals to rebuild trust in our public servants.”

Dant Chesser continued, “Nobody likes their paycheck taxed, but you know that money will help fund your local schools, roads or emergency services. You trust those in power to act in your best interest. After what we’ve experienced in Clark County, it’s clear we need to have additional protocols in place to prevent fraud and mismanagement.”

Dant Chesser's legislative proposals include training on ethical and fiduciary duties for local officials, additional guidelines and oversight of commissary fund spending, and building on previous bipartisan work, like a 2024 law that increases public transparency when it comes to government contracts and spending.

“Additionally, I plan to support local efforts to increase accountability. Sheriff Scottie Maples has taken new steps to ensure transparency, including releasing detailed expenditure reports and revamping purchasing fund procedures to prevent future abuses – these proposals should be codified, so even as the memory of the Jamey Noel incident fades, our commitment to transparency remains.

“The hurt and broken trust that Clark County has experienced at the hands of someone who did not uphold their ethical and fiduciary duty to taxpayers is something we will feel for years to come,” Dant Chesser said. “Thank you to Sheriff Maples for taking these important steps. I look forward to working across the aisle to ensure our local officials serve with integrity as we work to restore the community's trust.”

Klinker echoes concerns of teachers, encourages public comment on second draft diploma proposal

On Wednesday (Oct.9), the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) officially published its second draft proposal in its effort to redesign Indiana’s high school diplomas. The credits in the base diploma, the six optional “readiness seals,” and the work-based learning requirements are unchanged. However, the lengthy document fails to provide insight into the implementation and vague wording of the new requirements.  

State Rep. Sheila Klinker (D-Lafayette) released the following statement regarding the public comment period: 

“As a member of the Education Committee, teachers from across the state have contacted me about the IDOE’s diploma redesign. Many people attended my recent town hall where we discussed the updated base diploma and the optional seals for enrollment, employment and enlistment. Our educators were encouraged to see an improved balance between academic rigor and work-based learning in the second draft.

“Even though the second draft is an improvement, I am still concerned about the impact these changes will have on our schools. Our teachers are choosing to leave the profession due to burnout, a lack of support and unrealistic expectations. Each year, Hoosier teachers adjust to new curricula, and then we change it again right when they finally get adjusted. Our state is experiencing a teacher and counselor shortage that will make it difficult to implement these diploma changes. 

“Our students should always be our top priority, but we must consider how our actions at the legislature impact our educators and administrators. I encourage our teachers, students, administrators and any concerned citizens to submit their feedback to the IDOE.” 

The Indiana Department of Education is accepting feedback on the second draft diploma proposal until Friday, Nov. 8. All parents, students, educators and stakeholders are encouraged to share their concerns and can do so via the online form.

Campbell encourages public comment on second draft diploma

On Wednesday (Oct.9), the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) officially published its second draft proposal in its effort to redesign Indiana’s high school diplomas. The credits in the base diploma, the six optional “readiness seals,” and the work-based learning requirements are unchanged. However, the lengthy document fails to provide insight into the implementation and vague wording of the new requirements. 

State Rep. Chris Campbell (D-West Lafayette) released the following statement:

“West Lafayette is the home of Purdue University, so our community has closely followed the diploma redesign process. Many people attended my town halls, and you’ve shared your concerns about external employment, the lack of academic rigor, school budget constraints and more. I hoped the official second draft would clear up our concerns, but many of our questions remain unanswered.

“No details were provided about work-based learning, including transportation, the involvement of local businesses and the creation of additional safety guidelines. Someone will need to track each student’s work hours and progress, but it’s unclear if that’s the role of each student, the business or the school counselor. We still have no clue how much these changes will cost or the additional staff we’ll need. 

“Implementing these new requirements will cause significant stress since our schools are understaffed and underfunded. Now that the official document has been published, the IDOE is accepting feedback on the updated diploma proposal. I hope everyone will share their comments and concerns through the online form.”

The Indiana Department of Education is accepting feedback on the second draft diploma proposal until Friday, Nov. 8. All parents, students, educators and stakeholders are encouraged to share their concerns and can do so via the online form. 

Boy recognizes EPA’s National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week: Oct. 20-26

National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (NLPPW) is Oct. 20-26, 2024. NLPPW is a vital initiative aimed at raising awareness about childhood lead exposure and the dangers of lead poisoning. 

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), will host a series of informative webinars throughout the week. Topics include understanding lead exposure, knowing your rights regarding lead-based paint, and protecting your family from lead exposure. Webinar information and registration links:

• Know Your Rights! Federal Lead-based Paint Regulations (English with simultaneous Spanish interpretation): If you lease or own a pre-1978 house, join the EPA and HUD on Monday, Oct. 21 from 5–6:30 p.m. CST for a webinar to learn more about your rights under the lead-based paint disclosure rule and the renovation, repair and painting rules, including how you can report violations of those rules. Register here.

• Understanding Lead (English with sign language interpretation): Join the EPA Tuesday, Oct. 22 from 1–2 p.m. CST for a live webinar about lead, its impacts, and actions that can be taken to reduce potential lead exposures and lead poisoning. Register here.

• El impacto del plomo en el aire interior y en la salud de los niños (the impact of lead on indoor air and children's health, offered only in Spanish): Join the EPA and HUD Tuesday, Oct. 22 from 12–1 p.m. CST for a webinar about the impact of lead on indoor air quality, effects of lead on children and why they’re vulnerable along with sources of lead in the home and outdoors. Learn how to minimize your risk of lead exposure. Register here.

• Información sobre el plomo (Understanding Lead in Spanish): Join the EPA Wednesday, Oct. 23 from 1–2:30 p.m. CST for a live webinar in Spanish about lead, its impacts, and actions that can be taken to reduce potential lead exposures and lead poisoning. Register here.

• Leave lead behind: How to protect your family from exposure: Join the CDC Wednesday, Oct. 23 from 12–1 p.m. CST; learn more about how to prevent lead exposure, the health effects of lead exposure, what to do if a child has been exposed to lead and historical national trends for lead levels. Register here.

• Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule Awareness (English with simultaneous Spanish interpretation): Join EPA Thursday, Oct. 24 from 12–1 p.m. CST for a live presentation for contractors about the EPA's RRP rule, which concerns RRP projects in homes, childcare facilities and preschools built before 1978. Register here.

In 2023, State Rep. Pat Boy (D-Michigan City) supported Rep. Carolyn Jackson’s (D-Hammond) legislation, HEA 1138, which became law in May 2023. This law requires lead testing of drinking water at child care and preschool facilities, implementing crucial preventative measures against the long-term effects of lead poisoning on children’s neurological development. During the 2024 legislative session, Rep. Boy proposed HB 1229, demonstrating her commitment to ensuring the health and safety of lead poisoning prevention in children, and supported SEA 5, which speeds up the replacement of lead utility lines throughout the state.

Rep. Boy released the following statement in regard to NLPPW:

“During National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, I encourage everyone to participate by taking proactive steps to reduce lead exposure in our homes. Share important information about lead poisoning prevention with your friends and family, and use social media to spread the message further. Together, we have the power to make a real difference and create a healthier future for our communities.

In Indiana, we are making strides through legislative efforts to address lead exposure. At the Statehouse, I will continue to fight for further proactive measures that work to safeguard against the aggressive impacts of lead poisoning on our children and advocate for solutions that lead towards a lead-free Indiana.”

Rep. Pfaff calls for action on high school diploma proposal

State Rep. Tonya Pfaff (D-Terre Haute) expressed frustration with the latest draft of Indiana’s high school diploma proposal, released on Oct. 9 by the State Board of Education (SBOE) and Indiana Department of Education (IDOE). Despite input from educators, parents, and legislators, the second draft still fails to address key issues like student transportation, counselor shortages, workplace safety, and long-term funding.

Rep. Pfaff stated:

“I'm deeply concerned that this second draft doesn't address the critical issues of funding, student safety, or the cuts made to student curriculum. With the December deadline approaching, there are too many unanswered questions about how these diploma changes will actually work.

“Indiana is facing a severe shortage of school counselors, with a shocking student-to-counselor ratio of 694 to 1. Yet again, this draft overlooks the real-world impact of asking schools to implement new systems without adequate support.

“There’s also no additional funding or resources offered to help current school staff. How can we expect overworked counselors to take on even more responsibilities, like guiding students through new, complex diploma tracks and explaining them to parents?

“Earlier this year, I was hopeful when the SBOE removed the confusing GPS Diploma options in favor of one base diploma. That showed they were listening to Hoosiers' concerns. But this second draft ignores the major issues educators and lawmakers have raised since then.

“We need to keep the pressure on the IDOE and SBOE to make real improvements before the December deadline. The public can submit feedback on the second draft until Nov. 8, and there will be another public meeting that day for people to share their thoughts directly. I urge everyone to participate.

“As it stands, this proposal is not good enough. Our students deserve better, and I’ll keep pushing for real changes until we get a diploma plan that works for everyone.”

Rep. Pfaff encourages Hoosiers to provide feedback by filling out the IDOE's online form and attending the Nov. 8 public commentary meeting.

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. 

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. 

Hamilton to hold press conference on impact of the Medicaid Waiver waitlist

Tuesday, Oct. 15, State Rep. Carey Hamilton (D-Indianapolis) will hold a press conference to discuss the devastating impact of PathWays and Health and Wellness waiver waitlists under Indiana's managed care program, PathWays for Aging. The waitlist went into effect this past April in a cost-saving effort by the Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) after the $1 billion Medicaid shortfall. Hamilton will be joined by her constituent, Jo Lynn Garing, whose recently deceased grandmother, Josephine Malone, didn’t receive her waiver benefits in the transition to managed care and the waitlist put into place by FSSA. Josephine, a 103-year-old woman suffering from dementia and congestive heart failure, nearly had to move care facilities weeks before her death because she could not get off the waitlist. 

WHO: State Rep. Carey Hamilton, Jo Lynn Garing, Dan Kenyon (Executive Director of the Indiana Assisted Living Association (INALA)), and Executive Staff from Bloom Senior Living.

WHAT: Press conference to discuss the issue of the Medicaid PathWays for Aging Waiver waitlist causing vulnerable Hoosiers to lose medical care.

WHERE: Bloom at Kessler, 5011 Kessler Blvd E Dr., Indianapolis, IN 46220.

WHEN: 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 15. 

*Press interested in attending should RSVP to Courtney.bell@iga.in.gov.