An Update From the Indiana Department of Education for April 5, 2024

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A Message from Dr. Katie Jenner

Dr. Jenner

Last week, we took a giant step forward in the conversation regarding how we must make the high school experience more flexible and relevant for students. In the coming weeks, I look forward to sharing some examples from across Indiana where several schools are already making big strides to increase the impactful opportunities for their students, including increased access to quality work-based learning and credentials of value (educational attainment). However, today, I’d like to call out something we’ve been planning for and talking about for months…the ECLIPSE!

While the weather is still being closely monitored, we know one thing for sure…depending on where you are in our state, sometime on Monday afternoon the moon will block the sun causing a clear view of a total eclipse right over many parts of Indiana. While our schools have been planning for awhile, I hope you also have a personal viewing plan. Speaking to the DNR Commissioner, he advised trying to get around nature (to hear the animals and insects shift into nighttime mode for a few short minutes in the middle of the day). My family plans to watch it together with neighbors in rural Indiana (around a lot of farms, fields, and nature). The main thing is to have a game plan…and use your specialized, protective glasses if you look directly at the eclipse!

Whether you’re in school or eLearning, don’t forget that there are eclipse resources ready to go and available to help you maximize this STEM learning opportunity. Below are links we have shared previously but wanted to be sure you have them handy for Monday:

And last, but certainly not least, I cannot close out today’s message without a shout out to the Indiana State Sycamores, who were such a fun team to support and watch this season. In a tough fought battle last night, they were runner-up in the NIT Championship game and represented our state well. Also, best of luck to the Purdue Boilermakers who will play in the final four tomorrow night. I will absolutely be one of thousands tuned in and cheering you on!

Have a great weekend, and thank you for all you do for Indiana students!

Reminders for the Class of 2024

Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) Graduation Pathway Requirements

Pursuant to Indiana Code (IC) 20-32-4-1.5, the Indiana State Board of Education (SBOE) established the use of the ASVAB to meet graduation pathway requirements. Beginning with the 2025 graduation cohort, HEA 1635 requires students electing to use the ASVAB as a means for meeting graduation pathway requirements to also fill out the Military Enlistment Intent Form. Students graduating in the 2023 and 2024 cohorts who have earned a qualifying ASVAB score, as determined by SBOE, prior to July 1, 2023, will be able to utilize previously earned ASVAB scores without a signed Military Enlistment Intent Form to fulfill their graduation pathway requirements. Learn more here. Contact IDOE's Student Pathways team with any questions.

 

Graduation Waiver Caps

As outlined in Indiana Code (IC) 20-26-13-10, for purposes of calculating the 2024 graduation rate, Indiana schools may not count more than 9% of their graduation cohort as graduating if utilizing postsecondary ready competency waivers. Schools exceeding the 9% cap will receive an adjusted state graduation rate. Postsecondary ready competency graduation waivers will be capped at 6% for the 2025 cohort and 3% for the 2026 cohort and beyond. In December, schools received a letter with their 2023 graduation rates along their post-secondary competency waiver rates. The letter provided a breakdown of how the 9% cap would impact their graduation rate, which should be considered when helping the class of 2024 meet their graduation requirements. Contact IDOE's Office of Student Pathways and Opportunities with questions regarding postsecondary ready competency qualifications, or Office of Accountability with questions regarding the calculation of the graduation rate or the cohort report.

Office of Accountability

REMINDER: 2024-2025 Corporation Amendments

The 2024-2025 school year corporation amendment window is open through Friday, August 30. Corporations and schools with school profile changes should submit a corporation amendment request with supporting documentation via Jotform. Information regarding submission can be found here. Corporations and schools without any school profile changes do not need to submit a request. Contact IDOE’s Office of Accountability with any questions.

Office of Student Assessment

NEW: SAT School Day Makeup Testing Window Opens Monday, April 8

The SAT School Day makeup testing window occurs from Monday, April 8, through Friday, April 19. Find detailed responses to frequently asked questions regarding the SAT School Day here and other preparation materials in College Board’s Indiana SAT School Day Google Drive. Contact IDOE’s Office of Student Assessment with participation and policy questions and College Board with any technical questions. 

 

NEW: ILEARN Biology & U.S. Government End-of-Course Assessment (ECA) Testing Windows Open Monday, April 15

The ILEARN Biology and U.S. Government ECA Spring 2024 online testing window is Monday, April 15, through Friday, May 17. The paper-and-pencil testing window for the ILEARN Biology ECA is Monday, April 15, through Friday, May 10. As a reminder, participation in the ILEARN U.S. Government ECA is optional for students who have completed the high school U.S. government course and is offered solely online. Students are required to participate in the ILEARN Biology ECA once upon completion of the high school biology course. View participation guidance here. Refer to the ILEARN 2023-2024 Milestones, ILEARN Biology ECA Test Window Checklist, and testing window contact overview for additional support. Contact IDOE’s Office of Student Assessment with any questions. 

 

NEW: ILEARN 3-8 Testing Window Opens Monday, April 15

The ILEARN 3-8 online testing window is Monday, April 15, through Friday, May 10, and the paper-and-pencil testing window is Monday, April 15, through Friday, May 3. Refer to the ILEARN 2023-2024 Milestones, ILEARN 3-8 Test Window Checklist, and testing window contact overview for additional support. Contact IDOE’s Office of Student Assessment with any questions. 

 

NEW: ILEARN Spring 2024 Monitoring 

IDOE’s Office of Student Assessment will conduct virtual and onsite monitoring visits during the ILEARN 3-8 and ILEARN Biology ECA testing windows to ensure fidelity of test administration and test security requirements. 

  • ILEARN 3-8: Monday, April 15, through Friday, May 10
  • ILEARN Biology ECA: Monday, April 15, through Friday, May 17

Contact IDOE’s Office of Student Assessment with any questions.

 

NEW: Good Cause Exemption (GCE) Reporting Updates

IDOE is now accepting IREAD-3 GCE submissions exclusively through Data Exchange and the 2023-2024 GCE Intervention Plan JotForm has been closed. GCEs will now be reported using Assessment Accommodations Codes within Data Exchange. Access How to Report Student Good Cause Exemptions for more information. Relevant codes are listed below:

  • EX_IEP: Exemption based on IEP Case Conference Committee decision
  • EX_ILP: Exemption based on ILP Committee decision
  • EX_RTN: Exemption based on retained twice prior to fourth grade

Additional information regarding GCE eligibility can be found here. As GCEs are reported, IDOE will regularly update the IREAD-3 and ILEARN Report - Current Enrollment in Ed-Data. Schools can review this report for a student’s exemption status. GCEs can only be applied for an eligible student who has participated in at least one IREAD-3 administration and after a review of valid test results. Grade two students who do not receive a passing score must retest in grade three, and are not eligible to receive a GCE after their first administration. Contact IDOE’s Office of Data Reporting with additional questions. 

 

REMINDER: ILEARN Q&A Sessions

IDOE will hold two Q&A sessions in April to address any questions regarding the upcoming ILEARN 3-8, ILEARN Biology End-of-Course Assessment (ECA), and optional ILEARN U.S. Government ECA testing windows.

Additional resources and webinars can be found on IDOE’s ILEARN webpage. Contact IDOE’s Office of Student Assessment with questions. 

Office of Educator Licensing

REMINDER: LVIS360 Update

Educators applying for initial licenses or renewals in the next few months should log in to the updated LVIS360 system soon to link their LVIS legacy licensure data to their LVIS360 account. The new system requires users to create an Access Indiana account prior to accessing LVIS360. The Office of Educator Licensing recommends getting acquainted with the new login process and linking your new LVIS360 login to your legacy account now before the busy season for licensing starts in May. Administrators, please encourage your teachers to log in soon. Access the user portal here. Contact IDOE's Office of Educator Licensing with any questions.

Office of Educator Talent

NEW: Early Literacy Endorsement 80 Hours of Professional Development Requirement

Additional information related to how educators who hold a PK-6 or Special Education license can obtain the 80 hours of professional development required to add the Early Literacy Endorsement can be found here. Please contact IDOE'S Literacy Center with any questions.

 

REMINDER: Nominations Open for Distinguished Educators Recognition

IDOE’s Office of Educator Talent is looking for confidential recommendations of teachers representing the very best educators in Indiana. These emerging leaders must have between five and 15 years of experience, demonstrate leadership beyond the classroom, and positively impact school culture and student achievement. Superintendents and principals may submit recommendations here by Friday, May 24. Contact Anne Marie Milligan with any questions. 

 

REMINDER: Nominate an Educator for Teacher of the Year

The Indiana Teacher of the Year Program works to inspire, rejuvenate, and celebrate the teaching profession by recognizing outstanding teachers from across the state. Local schools are encouraged to participate in an annual selection process and local Teacher(s) of the Year are encouraged to complete the state application process by Friday, July 5. Find more information on the 2025 Indiana Teacher of the Year selection process here. Contact intoy@doe.in.gov with any questions.

 

REMINDER: Indiana Teacher of the Year speaker request

The Office of Educator Talent invites you to request the Indiana Teacher of the Year to be a guest speaker at your next event. Take advantage of the opportunity to help celebrate teaching and uplift the profession. Requests may be submitted here. Contact intoy@doe.in.gov with any questions.

 

REMINDER: Applications for Spanish Visiting Teacher Program

Find details for the 2024-2025 school year Spanish Visiting Teacher Program here and learn more about the responsibilities of being a host school here. Districts can express interest by completing the application form here. Priority will be given to applications completed by Sunday, March 31. Contact Anne Marie Milligan with any questions.

 

REMINDER: Additional Opportunities to Recognize Indiana Educators

Throughout the year, numerous opportunities arise nationwide to acknowledge the incredible work of Indiana educators. IDOE’s Office of Educator Talent has developed this document which will be updated periodically with external opportunities to recognize educators. To submit an educator recognition opportunity not listed, contact Anne Marie Milligan.

 

REMINDER: Nominations Open for the Indiana History Teacher of the Year Award

In partnership with IDOE, the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History awards the Indiana History Teacher of the Year title each year in its effort to promote the study and love of American history. State winners are then considered for the National History Teacher of the Year award. For more information about the nomination process and to nominate an Indiana history teacher, click here. Nominations must be submitted by Tuesday, April 30. Contact Anne Marie Milligan with any questions.

 

REMINDER: Indiana STEM Educator Expansion Program (I-STEM) Registration Now Available

IDOE is partnering with Educational Service Centers (ESCs) of Indiana to strengthen Indiana’s STEM educator pipeline. The I-STEM partnership provides support for both currently licensed teachers in non-STEM areas and prospective teachers who are not licensed but hold a bachelor’s degree, to become licensed to teach in a STEM content area. Eligible STEM content areas are life science, chemistry, earth/space science, physics, physical science, computer science, technology education, and mathematics. Learn more and register here. Contact the Office of Educator Talent with any questions. 

Office of Information Technology

NEW: Good Cause Exemption (GCE) Reporting Updates

IDOE is now accepting IREAD-3 GCE submissions exclusively through the Data Exchange and the 2023-2024 GCE Intervention Plan JotForm has been closed. GCEs will now be reported using Assessment Accommodations Codes within Data Exchange. Relevant codes are listed below:

  • EX_IEP: Exemption based on IEP Case Conference Committee decision
  • EX_ILP: Exemption based on ILP Committee decision
  • EX_RTN: Exemption based on retained twice prior to fourth grade

Additional information regarding GCE eligibility can be found here. As GCEs are reported, IDOE will regularly update the IREAD-3 and ILEARN Report - Current Enrollment in Ed-Data. Schools can review this report for a student’s exemption status. GCEs can only be applied for an eligible student who has participated in at least one IREAD-3 administration and after a review of valid test results. Grade two students who do not receive a passing score must retest in grade three, and are not eligible to receive a GCE after their first administration. Submit questions here.

 

REMINDER: 2024 School Tech Plan Survey Now Open

The 2024 School Tech Plan Survey is open through Friday, May 3. All public schools are required to complete this survey to qualify for the connectivity formula grant, the common school fund, and grants from IDOE's Office of Academics. While not required, non-public schools are encouraged to complete the survey in order to inform and collaborate regarding digital learning best practices. Find previous year public data in the Digital Readiness Dashboard or through EdData. Contact Brad Hagg with any questions.

 

REMINDER: Annual Performance Reports (APRs) Requirement Repealed

The requirement for the governing body of a school corporation to publish an annual performance report of the school corporation (IC 20-20-8-3) was repealed during the 2023 session of the Indiana General Assembly. School corporations are no longer required to publish annual performance reports to satisfy these requirements. Submit any questions here.

Office of School Building Physical Security and Safety

REMINDER: 2024 Eclipse Guidance

As was shared in a memo on October 13, 2023, schools across Indiana will experience the eclipse differently, depending on their geographic location, with portions of central and southern Indiana in the path of totality. Any determinations regarding instruction on the day of the eclipse will be a local decision, and local planning should be occurring now. Some schools will be in-person and holding special events this day, others will have virtual learning, and others have already extended spring break so they are not in session on this day. As a reminder, per IC 20 -24.2-4-2, schools are required to meet a minimum instructional time threshold, and waivers will not be granted due to the eclipse. Contact IDOE’s Office of School Building Physical Safety and Security with any questions.

Office of School Finance

NEW: Tuition Support

Please see this memo regarding the April Tuition Support payment. Contact IDOE’s Office of School Finance with any questions.

 

REMINDER: Common School Advancements

IDOE’s Office of School Finance is now accepting applications for construction and technology loans from school corporations and school corporation career and technical education schools. To be considered, applications must be received no later than 4:30 p.m. ET on Friday, April 19. Applications can be found in the Public School Finance Community in Moodle under Common School Funds > Spring. Contact commschofund@doe.in.gov with any questions.

 

REMINDER: ESSER III Subrecipient Awards

In order to maximize Indiana’s federal relief dollars to best support student learning, IDOE will review all subrecipient awards funded using ESSER III beginning Friday, April 12. Subrecipients should ensure reimbursement requests are submitted as soon as possible to bring project reimbursements up to date and accurately reflect the work completed thus far. Any subrecipient that has not spent what would reasonably be expected by Friday, April 12, will be required to provide supporting documentation to ensure funds will be fully utilized during the contract or grant period. The subrecipient may have its award re-evaluated and could see a reduction in funding. IDOE will contact the subrecipients required to provide additional information. IDOE will perform additional rounds of evaluation in June and August. Please note that the ESSER III LEA formula grants will not be impacted. Contact Tracy Brown or Derek Deuth with any questions.

Office of School Support & Transformation

REMINDER: Next Generation School Improvement Grant (Next Gen SIG) 

Applications for the Next Gen SIG are open. This is a competitive multi-year, multi-million dollar grant, and must include a well-developed vision and intentional strategic plan to innovate or transform the educational experience for your students and their community. Eligibility for this grant extends to all schools currently identified as CSI and TSI under Indiana’s Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) plan. Interested school officials can read more about the grant program in this memo. A list of eligible schools can be found here. The NextGen SIG application will remain open through Friday, May 24. Please review the scoring rubric that will be used to evaluate the application before filling out the application. Contact IDOE's Office of School Support and Transformation with any questions.

Office of Student Pathways and Opportunities

REMINDER: American Rescue Plan - Homeless Children and Youth (ARP-HCY) Remaining Balance

Funds appropriated under ARP-HCY I & II are available for obligation until Monday, September 30. The drawdown window of obligated ARP-HCY I & II funds is 120 days, or January 30, 2025 (see 2 C.F.R. § 200.344(b)). Indiana school districts must report expenditures monthly in order for IDOE to maintain accurate reporting of dollars spent and dollars available. Contact IDOE’s Office of Student Pathways and Opportunities with questions.

 

REMINDER: 3E Grant Amendments

The 3E Grant amendments deadline is Friday, May 31. Any grantee seeking to amend their approved budget must submit an amendment form to IDOE prior to this deadline. Contact IDOE’s Office of Student Pathways and Opportunities to receive a copy of your amendment form or with any questions.

 

REMINDER: 2024-2025 McKinney-Vento Subgrant Application Open

The 2024-2025 McKinney-Vento Subgrant Application is open through Friday, April 26. The McKinney-Vento subgrant provides funding to local educational agencies (LEAs) to support the unique needs and challenges that homeless children and youth face when enrolling, attending, and succeeding in school. The McKinney-Vento subgrant contract runs from October 1 through September 30 each year. Please contact IDOE's McKinney-Vento team for support.

 

REMINDER: 2024-2025 Locally Created Pathway (LCP) Application Open

The application for new LCPs is open for any LEAs who seek approval for a new LCP beginning in the 2024-2025 school year. Additional information about LCPs can be found on the Graduation Pathways webpage. Contact IDOE's Student Pathways team with any questions.

Office of Special Education, English Learning, and Migrant Education

NEW: 2024-2025 Auditory Verbal Accelerated (AVA) Funding Now Open

The application for fiscal year (FY) 2025 AVA funding is open and can be found in the Moodle Office of Special Education Community. Find funding guidance here. Contact IDOE’s Office of Special Education with any questions. 

 

NEW: Paraprofessional Training Grant Application and Office Hours

IDOE is offering a grant opportunity to school corporations, charter schools, and state schools to guarantee that paraprofessionals, as defined in 511 Indiana Administrative Code (IAC) 7-32-69, receive training to assist students with disabilities. The grant application closes Friday, May 3. IDOE will host two open office hours to assist the field in completing these grant applications. Join the sessions below for assistance:

Contact IDOE’s Office of Special Education with additional questions. 

 

NEW: Migrant Education Program (MEP) Work Survey Administration Requirements

Per federal regulations, the MEP Work Survey must be administered annually to all students enrolled in Indiana school corporations. The work survey must be completed each year during registration and kept on file until the following year. When school corporation staff receive a survey that includes positive responses to the first two questions, indicating that the family may have moved in the past 36 months to seek agricultural work, they must contact their respective Migrant Regional Center (MRC) to determine final eligibility. MRCs provide supplemental educational services for eligible migratory students. More information and frequently asked questions can be found on the MEP webpage. Contact migrant@doe.in.gov with any questions.

 

REMINDER: Aspiring Special Education Leadership Institute (ASELI) Applications Now Open 

The Indiana Council of Administrators of Special Education (ICASE) developed ASELI, a one-year leadership development program that prepares a diverse group of educators for special education leadership roles to improve outcomes for all students. ASELI is currently accepting applications for cohort five. ASELI is composed of teachers, school psychologists, counselors, and principals from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds who aspire to be special education administrators and are committed to a career in special education leadership. ASELI is not available for currently-licensed special education directors. Contact ICASE or IDOE’s Office of Special Education with any questions. 

 

REMINDER: Special Education Excess Cost (SEEC) Funding Updates

IDOE will be unable to process any new requests for SEEC funding contracts from Friday, March 29, through Sunday, June 30, the start of the 2025 fiscal year. LEAs can submit applications for SEEC funding during this period, but contracts for any funds that are granted will not be processed until after Monday, July 1. LEAs should continue paying all vendor invoices. Following contract execution, LEAs will receive notification and may submit invoices for payment. Expenses will be reimbursed in accordance with the authorized contract once all supporting documentation is provided, demonstrating that the LEA’s share of cost has been paid. Contact IDOE’s Office of Special Education with additional questions. 

 

REMINDER: Required Part B Proportionate Share Office Hours

IDOE’s Office of Special Education Part B fiscal team will be hosting mandatory office hours to assist LEAs with proportionate share balances or are planning to complete a Proportionate Share Release (Waiver). The fiscal year (FY) 2023 611 and 619 grants will close on Monday, September 30. This forum will answer questions and provide support for LEAs to expend funds for students with disabilities parentally placed in a non-public or homeschool setting. 

Contact IDOE’s Office of Special Education with any questions.

 

REMINDER: Certificate of Multilingual Proficiency (CoMP) Participation Deadline Extended Through Today, Friday, April 5

CoMP, Indiana’s seal of biliteracy, is awarded to seniors who demonstrate high levels of proficiency in English and another language. School corporations or nonpublic schools intending on participating in Indiana’s CoMP must renew their registration annually. Those wishing to participate in the 2023-2024 school year must sign up using this form by the end of today, Friday, April 5. This current list of participants shows which corporations or schools have already registered. For more information, see IDOE’s Certificate of Multilingual Proficiency webpage. Contact IDOE’s Office of English Learning and Migrant Education with any questions.

 

REMINDER: Funding Available for CoMP Language Assessments

The Indiana Language Roadmap project offers funding assistance for language proficiency exams for high school students planning on obtaining Indiana’s CoMP. Students must be nominated by an educator, counselor, or parent. Individuals may nominate more than one student, but preference will be given to students from a variety of school districts taking proficiency exams for less commonly-taught languages and who demonstrate financial need. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis through the end of today, Friday, April 5. Complete the nomination form here. For more information, visit the IDOE Certificate of Multilingual Proficiency webpage. Contact IDOE’s Office of English Learning and Migrant Education with any questions.

Offices of Teaching and Learning, Digital Learning, and Kindergarten Readiness

NEW: Future-Focused Indiana Academic Standards (IAS) for Science and Computer Science Course Now Available

The new 2023 Future-Focused Indiana Academic Standards for Science and Computer Science Course is an asynchronous learning opportunity for educators that incorporates unpacking elementary and secondary 2023 IAS for Science and Computer Science progress monitoring, formative assessments, and leadership/coaching strategies. This course is free and available in the Indiana Learning Lab. Professional Growth Plan (PGP) points are available upon completion. Contact IDOE’s Office of Teaching and Learning with any questions.

 

NEW: 2024-2025 Reading Plan and 2023-2024 Dyslexia Reporting Due Sunday, June 30 

IDOE’s Literacy Center released the new 2024 reading plan and dyslexia reporting guidance. Indiana Administrative Code requires all public schools and state-accredited non-public schools with students enrolled in kindergarten through grade three to submit an elementary reading plan for the 2024-2025 school year to IDOE by close of business on Sunday, June 30. Schools will complete the applicable form:

In addition to the reading plan, Indiana Code 20-35.5 requires all public schools to report dyslexia screening data from the current 2023-2024 school year. State-accredited non-public schools are not required to submit dyslexia data, but have the option to report. The submission window is open today, Friday, April 5, through Sunday, June 30. Contact IDOE’s Literacy Center with additional questions.

 

NEW: 2023-2024 Charter School Dyslexia Reporting Due Sunday, June 30 

The Literacy Center released the new 2024 Reading Plan and dyslexia reporting guidance. Indiana Code 20-35.5 requires all charter schools with students enrolled in kindergarten through grade two to submit a dyslexia data report to IDOE by close of business on Sunday, June 30. Charter schools will use this form for dyslexia reporting. Schools will complete the submission using data from the 2023-2024 school year. The submission window is open today, Friday, April 5, through Sunday, June 30. Contact IDOE’s Literacy Center with additional questions.

 

NEW: Indiana Library Foundation Read Aloud Series

Join the Indiana Library Foundation in the Indiana Learning Lab for the first of three sessions on Thursday, April 11, for The Road to Lifelong Literacy: Reading Aloud. Parents, caregivers, librarians, and educators are encouraged to attend. Register for all three live sessions here. Contact IDOE’s Literacy Center with additional questions.

 

REMINDER: April Professional Development (PD) with IDOE

April PD with IDOE sessions continue next week, on Wednesday, April 10, with Learn and Grow with the Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award for Ages 0-5 led by Suzanne Walker, Director of the Indiana Center for the Book at the Indiana State Library. View a full list of April sessions here. To register for workshops, or view on demand sessions, create a free Learning Lab account by visiting the LINK Portal or the Indiana Learning Lab directly and use your school email address to log in. Contact IDOE’s Office of Digital Learning with any questions.

 

REMINDER: Virtual Learning Professional Development Series - Supporting English Learners

Join us for Virtual Learning Essentials, a series of presentations from experts, researchers, and authors, featuring deep dives into essential elements of virtual learning. This series continues Tuesday, April 9, at 4 p.m. ET, with “Supporting English Learners in Virtual Environments” by Kristina Robertson, multilingual learner teacher from Saint Paul Public Schools and contributor to Colorín Colorado. Register here. Previous sessions are available in the Indiana Learning Lab collection. Contact IDOE’s Office of Digital Learning with any questions.

 

REMINDER: Digital Learning Coach Grant Application Now Open

Applications for the 2024-2025 Digital Learning Coach Grant are open until Friday, April 19, at 5 p.m. ET. This competitive grant opportunity supports the professional development of individuals who spend at least half of their contracted time in a digital learning coaching role. See this memo for additional information. Contact IDOE’s Office of Digital Learning with any questions.

Office of Title Grants and Support

NEW: eCivis - A New Way to Apply for Grants

Applicants for state and federal grants from IDOE will now access grant solicitations via the eCivis Grants Portal. Applications will be submitted electronically through the portal and subrecipients will receive their award notices via eCivis. Following notice of their award, subrecipients, including LEAs, will use eCivis to manage their grants, including submitting activity reports, requesting reimbursements, and conducting grant close-out activities. Click here for training materials, technical support, and other information about eCivis. 

 

REMINDER: TitleCon 2024 Agenda and Session Schedule Available

The agenda for TitleCon 2024 along with the breakout session schedule are now posted in the conference app YAPP. The conference code for the app is “TC2024”. Information regarding the sessions and presenters is still being added. Session dates and times are subject to change as plans are finalized. Contact Gabriela Escoto with any questions.

 

REMINDER: Register for TitleCon 2024

TitleCon 2024 will be on Wednesday, April 10, and Thursday, April 11, in Plainfield. This year, there is an optional pre-conference on Tuesday, April 9, to provide an overview of the new eCivis grants management system. The pre-conference morning and afternoon sessions will be identical. Register here. Contact Gabriela Escoto with any questions.

News From Our Partners

NEW FROM ADVANCED PLACEMENT TEACHER INVESTMENT PROGRAM (AP-TIP): Upcoming Remote Teacher Collaboratives

AP-TIP will host the next round of Remote Teacher Collaboratives on Tuesday, April 9. Remote Teacher Collaboratives are live, discussion-based professional workshops. Participants delve into high-impact practices that facilitate the instruction of AP content and empower all students. Learn more about Remote Teacher Collaboratives, review the topics by subject, and register for the April sessions here

 

NEW FROM THE INDIANA COMMISSION FOR HIGHER EDUCATION (CHE): Career Discovery Meetings Webinar

CHE will conduct a webinar to review the new Career Discovery Meetings (CDM) that juniors and seniors must complete once a year as part of HEA 1002-2023. The webinar will take place on Wednesday, April 24, at 1 p.m. ET. Registration is not required and participants can join the webinar here. Submit questions before the webinar at this link. For those unable to attend, the webinar will be recorded and the recording will be available following the webinar upon request. Contact Jose Medina with any questions.

 

NEW FROM THE INDIANA ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL PRINCIPALS (IASP): IASP Seeks Nominations for Honorees

The Indianapolis Indians are excited to announce Teacher Appreciation Night on Saturday, May 4. Partnering with the Indiana Association of School Principals and Teachers Treasures, the Indians are seeking one nomination from each school from the principal. Three teachers from each school level of kindergarten through grade five, intermediate/middle school, and high school will be honored during the pregame ceremonies on Saturday, May 4. Nominate a teacher from your school here by Sunday, April 14. Contact Tiffany Barrett with any questions.

 

NEW FROM INDIANA SCHOOL BOARDS ASSOCIATION (ISBA): School Board Candidate 101 Webinars

ISBA is hosting a series of four live webinars free of charge for anyone considering running for school board. ISBA will provide resources to support individuals who decide to run for a school board seat, including an election procedures legal memo, a school board candidate resource guide, and a FAQ resource. The first webinar, focused on understanding school board roles and responsibilities, is scheduled for Thursday, May 9. As a reminder, this year’s window to file as a candidate for school board is Tuesday, May 21, through Thursday, June 20. Learn more and register here.

 

NEW FROM THE CENTER FOR APPLIED SPECIAL TECHNOLOGY (CAST): Draft Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Guidelines 3.0 Available

CAST has launched their most recent effort to update the UDL Guidelines as a resource to guide the design of learning environments and experiences that reduce barriers and more robustly serve every learner. CAST has shared the full draft of UDL Guidelines 3.0 and draft UDL Guidelines 3.0 Graphic Organizer for public comment. Please share your feedback via Google Forms survey or Alchemer survey by Monday, April 15. Contact CAST with any questions.

 

NEW FROM THE PATINS PROJECT: April Training with PATINS Project

Discover the transformative potential of accessible education through PATINS Project training. Whether you aim to amplify your grasp of assistive technology or champion accessibility in education, our expert-led sessions deliver practical insights and actionable solutions. Contact the PATINS Project with any questions.

 

NEW FROM THE CENTER ON INCLUSIVE TECHNOLOGY AND EDUCATION SYSTEMS (CITES): Speak Up Leadership Survey

CITES has partnered with Project Tomorrow’s Speak Up Leadership Survey to gather data on district inclusive technology practices. Aligned with the new National Educational Technology Plan (NETP), this survey is designed for district and school administrators as well as kindergarten through grade 12 technology leaders. The survey gauges readiness to close the digital access, use, and design divides, including considerations for students with disabilities. Districts are provided with the results, and a national report will be published. District administrators and school building leaders may complete this survey through Friday, May 31, to receive a report card on their overall readiness to tackle digital equity in their district. There is no charge for any school or district to use the Speak Up Survey or receive the Digital Equity Readiness Report Card. Contact Project Tomorrow with any questions.

 

NEW FROM GET YOUR TEACH ON: Register now to attend the Indiana Educator Celebration

Get Your Teach On is hosting an Indiana Educator Celebration in partnership with IDOE on Friday, May 31 at the Indianapolis Marriott Downtown. Attendees can expect giveaways, food, keynote speakers, special guests, and much more. Register here. Contact Anne Marie Milligan with any questions. 

 

NEW FROM KEEP INDIANA LEARNING: House Enrolled Act (HEA) 1447 Compliance Workshop

Recent legislation has changed the way school districts approach student data collection. School counselors, social workers, and district leaders are invited to this free, one-hour virtual workshop to learn how to collect student data while following new legislative requirements. Learn more and register here. Contact Keep Indiana Learning with any questions.

 

REMINDER FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN INDIANA (USI): Quantitative Reasoning Conference 

USI will host its annual Quantitative Reasoning Conference on Tuesday, June 11, and Wednesday, June 12, on the USI campus in Evansville. The conference is sponsored by a grant from the Indiana Commission for Higher Education’s STEM Teacher Recruitment Fund and is intended for public high school teachers who offer a quantitative reasoning course or are planning to offer one in the future. Participating teachers will receive a $240 stipend to attend and hotel accommodations will be provided for two nights for individuals who live more than 60 miles from Evansville. Applications are due by Friday, May 3. Contact Dr. Rick Hudson at USI with any questions. 

 

REMINDER FROM CHE: Indiana’s Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Priority Deadline is Quickly Approaching

CHE encourages all high school seniors and current or prospective college students to submit their FAFSA by Monday, April 15. Earlier this year, CHE announced a 60% completion goal for the high school graduating class of 2024. CHE’s Outreach Coordinators are available to assist students and families in the filing process. Contact your region’s Outreach Coordinator with questions.

 

REMINDER FROM KEEP INDIANA LEARNING: College and Career Counseling at the Elementary Level

Keep Indiana Learning is hosting a virtual professional development focused on college and career counseling at the elementary-level on Wednesday, April 24, at 11:30 a.m. ET. Learn more and register here.  

 

REMINDER FROM THE INDIANAPOLIS ZOO: Conservation Educator Academy - Conservation for a Sustainable World

Participants in this four-day professional development program at the Indianapolis Zoo, organized by the Zoo and Ball State University, will learn how to integrate science practices and inquiry-based activities about conservation into lesson plans. Observe science practices about global and local conservation firsthand and hear from experts in areas of science, conservation, animal care and education. Participants will also be able to develop science inquiry-based lessons and hands-on STEM activities that you can take with you to use with your students! Learn more and register here

 

REMINDER FROM THE INDIANAPOLIS ZOO: Add-Ons for Your Next Zoo Field Trip

Led by a Zoo educator, Learning Safaris use the Zoo as a learning laboratory, stopping at various animal habitats to observe wildlife and engage in student exploration activities. STEM Investigations are 45-minute programs in the Zoo’s Hix Institute educational building that allow students to explore a Zoo-themed topic through direct scientific inquiry. All programs feature hands-on activities for the students, showcase animals and plants at the Zoo, and align with both the Indiana Academic Standards and Next Generation Science Standards. 

 

REMINDER FROM COLLEGE BOARD: AP Precalculus Webinar

College Board will host a Zoom webinar on Wednesday, April 17, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. ET, or 3 to 4 p.m. ET to share AP Precalculus details for the 2024-2025 school year. Participants will learn how AP Precalculus supports Indiana’s Grad Pathways, aligns to state standards, meets higher education credit policies, and compares to Dual Credit coursework in precalculus and trigonometry. Click here to register for the morning session or here for the afternoon session. The information covered will be the same in each session.

 

REMINDER FROM TEACH PLUS: Indiana Policy Fellowship Applications Open

Applications for the 2024-2025 Indiana Policy Fellowship are open through Sunday, April 21. This highly selective leadership opportunity is a paid fellowship for outstanding Indiana teachers looking to deepen their knowledge of education policy, learn more about the education landscape, and advocate for their students and the teaching profession. Nominate a teacher here and apply here. To learn more please register to attend an information session: 

Contact Kimberly Nguyen with any questions.

 

REMINDER FROM AP-TIP: AP Summer Institute

The 2024 AP Summer Institute sponsored by AP-TIP will be from Tuesday, July 9, through Friday, July 12, in Indianapolis. Training in a wide array of subjects across disciplines will be offered. AP Capstone sessions, Research, Seminar, and Seminar ELA, will be available at this location as well. Learn more about this College Board-endorsed event and register here.


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