Indiana House Approves Bill To Overhaul High School Diplomas

The Associated Press reports the Indiana House approved a bill on Monday that would overhaul the types of high school diplomas offered to students. AP News says the measure by Republican Indianapolis Rep. Bob Behning was approved on an 84-5 vote. According to the news website, the measure now moves to the Senate, where a similar measure is being considered.

In the latest change for the state's education system that has been in constant chaos in recent years amid changes in testing and education standards, AP News says the bill would require the state board of education to create the “Indiana Diploma” as the state’s new baseline. Students could get additional enhancements available based on academic achievement.

According to AP News, Indiana's graduation rate would take a hit without the measure, as the “general diploma” that some students currently choose to receive doesn't comply with federal requirements. A drop in the graduation rate could impact anything from a school’s A-F grade, to funding, among other factors, AP News says.

Indiana Ranks 38th In Most-Educated States

The bill also changes high school testing requirements. According to AP News, starting after 2019, schools must administer a nationally recognized college entrance exam, like the ACT or SAT, as an end of course assessment for high school students.

AP News says Democratic Rep. Vernon Smith, of Gary, supported the measure, however, he scolded the Legislature and policy makers for not listening enough to educators when it comes to making big changes.

Four different diplomas are currently offered in Indiana.

More: AP News

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