The Indiana Department of Education is embarking on a significant initiative to re-design the high school diploma, aiming to reshape how and what Hoosier students learn during their formative high school years. The IDOE recently unveiled its latest diploma proposal, sparking discussions and feedback from local school leaders across the state.
In the Concord Community School district, Superintendent Dan Funston is actively involved in the statewide committee tasked with expanding rigorous training and work-based learning opportunities for K-12 students. Funston emphasizes the importance of educational attainment in fostering prosperity for students and communities alike. He highlights the existing gap between high school graduates‘ intentions to pursue higher education and the actual percentage of graduates who do so, underscoring the need for bridges to facilitate this transition.
The latest diploma proposal presented by the IDOE on August 14th introduces a new diploma structure that includes a base set of minimum requirements for all students. While similar to the current Core 40 diploma, the proposed plan offers greater flexibility for students to select courses aligned with their interests and future plans. Additionally, students have the option to earn honors seals indicating readiness for enrollment, employment, or enlistment and service.
Industry buy-in is crucial for the success of the diploma re-design, as feedback from schools, colleges, and businesses has emphasized the importance of providing students with more access to work-based learning experiences. The latest proposal outlines requirements for earning enrollment, employment, and enlistment and service honors seals, which involve completing work-based learning hours and obtaining market-driven credentials.
Principal Sean Galiher of Penn High School in St. Joseph County praises the clarity and flexibility of the latest diploma proposal, noting that it will be easier for schools to interpret and help students meet expectations. Galiher emphasizes the importance of students earning honors seals and participating in work-based learning opportunities to prepare them for post-secondary success.
While the latest diploma proposal is still pending approval by the State Board of Education in December, schools will have the option to opt-in next school year if approved. Both Funston and Galiher stress the importance of further development and clarification before making a decision on opting in early, underscoring the significance of the new diploma in setting students up for success in their future endeavors. The collaborative efforts of educators, industry leaders, and policymakers are essential in ensuring the smooth implementation of the re-designed high school diploma across Indiana.