As I mentioned last week, 2023-2024 IREAD scores were released at the August State Board of Education meeting and show a 0.6 percentage point jump over 2022-2023 scores, marking the third consecutive year the scores have increased. This represents the highest year over year increase since the launch of IREAD in 2013! Statewide, results reveal that more than 67,000 Indiana third grade students – or 82.5% – demonstrated proficient reading skills on the assessment. While we absolutely should celebrate the good work happening across Indiana as more educators and schools lean into science of reading…it is also important that we keep our foot firmly on the gas pedal to ensure continued progress for our students.
In addition to the above data, I want to elevate a couple of big themes below:
- The significant improvements we are seeing in some of our student populations (and areas where we must keep improving);
- The results from Indiana Literacy Cadre schools (quick preview with more below - Literacy Cadre schools saw on average a 2.5 percentage point increase, compared to non-Cadre schools that only saw an average 0.2 percentage point increase).
The science of reading focused investments from the Lilly Endowment and the Indiana General Assembly are yielding early signs of positive return on investment for our schools, and most importantly, for our students.
Like anything, improvement ONLY occurs with hard work and focus, and as I’ve listened to some of the teachers and principals who led the most significant increases in their schools, the most common theme I have heard echoed is “intentionality.” Every single day they leveraged what they know about science of reading and worked student-by-student to ensure they are reading. I’m so proud of the many teachers, principals, and district leaders who are urgently and intentionally working day in and day out to move the needle for students.
Student Population Improvements and Work Ahead
Key takeaways from the data include some particularly bright spots for specific student populations, including literacy rates increasing for Black students, students in special education, and students receiving free/reduced price meals for three consecutive years.
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Black students:
- 3.2 percentage point increase from 2023 to 2024
- 6.6 percentage point increase from 2021 to 2024
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Students in special education:
- 2.2 percentage point increase from 2023 to 2024
- 4.7 percentage point increase from 2021 to 2024
- Students receiving free/reduced price meals
- 1.8 percentage point increase from 2023 to 2024
- 3.4 percentage point increase from 2021 to 2024
Hispanic students and English learners both saw decreases in literacy rates (0.3 and 0.4 percentage points respectively) in 2024, and as we move forward, we must continue to be laser focused on how we can help those students with additional, targeted reading support.
Literacy Cadre Shows Return on Investment for Schools and Students
In addition to the good news for some of our specific student populations, I am especially encouraged by the early signs of positive return on investment for our students and schools who are participating in the Indiana Literacy Cadre. Schools participating in the Cadre receive resources and financial support enabling them to hire school-based literacy coaches and provide support and training for educators.
This year’s IREAD scores show that schools opting in to participate in the cadre had a 2.5 percentage point increase in students passing IREAD, compared to a 0.2 percentage point increase for schools that did not opt in to the Literacy Cadre. Cadre schools with the highest growth include:
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Sand Creek Elementary School: 32.5 percentage points
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Indiana Math & Science Academy North: 29.4 percentage points
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Adams Elementary School: 24.5 percentage points
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Pleasant Run Elementary School: 21.5 percentage points
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Banneker Elementary School at Marquette: 21.4 percentage points
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Cold Spring School: 20.5 percentage points
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Milford Elementary School: 20.0 percentage points
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Snacks Crossing Elementary School: 18.5 percentage points
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Lakeside Elementary School: 17.0 percentage points
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Inspire Academy - A School of Inquiry: 16.7 percentage points
I especially want to shout out Snacks Crossing Elementary School, Sand Creek Elementary School, and Pleasant Run Elementary School, for joining us at the August SBOE meeting to share more about their intentional work that resulted in significant reading improvements for their students.
Thank you, as always, for all that you do for our students! Let’s continue to keep our foot on the gas pedal…and keep improving for Indiana students.
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REMINDER: Implementation Guidance for Newly Enacted Education Laws
Following the close of each legislative session, IDOE immediately begins working to implement newly-enacted legislation impacting K-12 education, which includes compiling guidance for educators. Guidance is a product of robust cross-agency collaboration and partnership with countless stakeholders. Any future updates will be added to this comprehensive guidance document and shared via the weekly newsletter.
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.
REMINDER: Third-Party Accreditation Petition Window is Open
Accrediting organizations for kindergarten through grade 12 schools that are interested in being recognized by the Indiana State Board of Education (SBOE) may submit a petition to IDOE for review. A notice of intent must be submitted by Sunday, September 1, and the petition must be submitted by Saturday, November 30, for recognition during the 2025-2026 school year. Pursuant to statute, IDOE will provide a recommendation to SBOE within six months of receipt of a petition. Additional information and the third-party accreditation petition can be found on IDOE's accreditation webpage. Contact IDOE's Office of Accountability with any questions.
REMINDER: 2024-2025 Formative (Interim) Assessment Grant Distributions
The Indiana State Board of Education (SBOE) approved 2024-2025 Formative (Interim) Assessment Grant distributions. Review this memo for details. Access this spreadsheet to confirm your corporation’s approved distribution.
IDOE will distribute funds to schools by Monday, September 30. IDOE provides funds to schools via electronic deposit into Fund 3028. Funds are tagged with the memo line “FY25 Remediation Testing 3028-3199” to reflect current Indiana Code naming conventions. Schools do not need to take any additional action to receive funds. Contact IDOE’s Office of Student Assessment with additional questions.
REMINDER: ILEARN Science Cut Scores Approved
Following the summer 2024 ILEARN Science Standards Setting, SBOE approved the new cut scores for ILEARN Science assessments. Find cut scores and more information here. 2024 ILEARN Science results are expected to be posted in the Centralized Reporting System (CRS) by Monday, September 30. Contact IDOE’s Office of Student Assessment with additional questions.
REMINDER: ILEARN Science Content & Fairness Committee Application Now Available
IDOE is seeking science teachers for grades four and six, computer science teachers for grades four and six, and biology teachers and instructional coaches to participate in the ILEARN Science Content and Fairness Committee. This committee will review new items that have been prepared for field testing and confirm if they are appropriate or if edits are needed.
- The committee will meet virtually (synchronously), and training will be included during the workshop.
- The committee will occur from Tuesday, October 1, through Thursday, October 3, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET.
- Participants will receive an honorarium of $480 upon completion.
- Participants must be located in a secure environment where others cannot view their screen for the entirety of the committee due to test security requirements.
The application deadline is Friday, September 13. Contact IDOE’s Office of Student Assessment with any questions regarding this opportunity.
REMINDER: Indiana Purple Star School Application Now Available
The Indiana Purple Star School Designation honors schools that have displayed a significant commitment to service members, veterans, and students and families connected to our nation’s military. The 2024 application is open through Monday, September 2. Learn about the requirements and apply here. Contact IDOE's Communications team with any questions.
REMINDER: Universal Screener and Dyslexia Programming Guidance
Schools are encouraged to review the Universal Screener and Dyslexia Programming guidance document for the 2024-2025 school year. Indiana Code (IC) 20-35.5 requires schools to administer a universal screener to all kindergarten, first, and second grade students annually to identify students who may be “at some risk” or “at risk” for learning characteristics of dyslexia. This early identification of students who are not on track to be proficient readers allows early implementation of targeted support. More information can be found on the IDOE Dyslexia webpage.
REMINDER: Nominations Open for the 2025 Recognizing Inspiring School Employees (RISE) Classified Staff Award
Public and non-public schools across the state are encouraged to nominate up to two classified school employees for the RISE Award. The RISE Award honors and promotes the excellence exhibited by classified school employees who provide exemplary service to students in pre-kindergarten through high school. The deadline to submit nominations is Friday, September 13, at 5 p.m. ET. Nominations can be submitted via JotForm. Contact IDOE’s Office of Educator Talent with any questions.
REMINDER: Flexible Keys to Literacy Professional Development Options Available Now
Registration is now open for educators who hold an Indiana professional educator license to enroll in one of the new flexible professional development options outlined in this memo. Additional information can be found here and the registration form with all available options can be found here. Educators who previously registered are able to continue with their current enrollment and can use the registration form to confirm their plans to remain in the live cohort sessions or choose a different option. Contact IDOE's Literacy Center with any additional questions.
REMINDER: Approval Process for 80 Hours of Professional Development to Support Early Literacy Endorsement Requirements and Praxis Voucher Request
Educators who plan to add Indiana’s Early Literacy Endorsement can follow the process outlined here to submit a request to verify completion of an approved 80 hours of professional development and request a Praxis Voucher. Contact IDOE's Literacy Center with any questions.
REMINDER: Early Literacy Endorsement Professional Development Verification
Verified programs that can be used to support the 80 hours of professional development needed for the Early Literacy Endorsement can be found on this document. Training providers (including school districts) may request approval to certify which requirements are met through participation in the training by submitting this form with supporting evidence. The list of approved programs will be updated regularly. Contact IDOE's Literacy Center with any questions.
REMINDER: Staff Performance Evaluation Plan Submission
Senate Enrolled Act 486 (2023) requires each school corporation to develop or adopt a plan for annual performance evaluations for each certificate employee. Staff performance evaluation plans must be submitted via JotForm by Friday, September 13. For more information, click here. Contact IDOE’s Office of Educator Talent with any questions.
REMINDER: Teacher Appreciation Grant (TAG) Policy Submission Required
Information regarding the TAG Policy Submission can be found here. Local educational agencies (LEAs) (including charter and virtual charter schools) must submit the TAG policy for approval via JotForm by Friday, September 13, to be eligible to receive TAG funding. Contact tag@doe.in.gov with any questions.
NEW: Attendance Insights Dashboard Launches Today, Friday, August 23
A new attendance dashboard is now available to school leaders with the following roles: LEA Administrator, School Administrator, Data Administrator, Counselor, Principal, Assistant Principal, Superintendent, Assistant Superintendent, and DOE Data Viewer on the EdData platform found on the Link Portal. The Attendance Insights dashboard platform providing insights into school attendance, broken down by school year, week, corporation, school, and grade, but will not filter to an individual student level. The attendance summary will update weekly to show the current week's attendance separated into attendance events, and will highlight year over year numbers to gauge attendance event trends. For the first time on a dashboard, habitually truant and chronic absenteeism rates will be calculated weekly. This dashboard can be utilized to look at attendance events by specific dates and grade level, comparisons of attendance events within school corporations, and metrics on timely submissions of attendance data. A public version of this dashboard will be released later this year.
NEW: KnowBe4 Offers Free Tools in Addition to Security Awareness Training
IDOE provides no-cost licenses to the KnowBe4 security awareness training platform to all schools to improve staff knowledge and preparedness. KnowBe4 additionally offers free tools to use to strengthen your organization's cybersecurity posture. These include supplemental training on phishing, supplemental security awareness, password security, email security, and malware tools. Now is also a great time to start planning for October Cybersecurity Awareness Month activities and KnowBe4 has a free resource kit available including a weekly activities planner and a resource guide. Contact Brad Hagg with any questions.
NEW: INView Integrating Into Indiana GPS Dashboard on August 30
Beginning Friday, August 30, INview will be integrated into the Indiana GPS dashboard. This will combine the data Hoosiers interact with the most on INView with the user-friendly functionality of Indiana GPS. Bringing this education data together in one spot will make it easier for educators, parents, and other stakeholders to find what they are looking for more quickly. Many features, such as map and compare, have been accessible through Indiana GPS since January 2024. Please fill out this JotForm with any questions.
REMINDER: Data Exchange (DEX) Office Hours for 2024-2025
Weekly DEX office hours sessions will be available throughout August on Tuesday mornings and Thursday afternoons. Beginning in September, weekly DEX office hours sessions will return to a Tuesday-only schedule. Links to submit questions, responses, and to join the office hours sessions can be found in Knowledge Hub > Communications Hub > Upcoming Events.
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Tuesday, August 27, 10:30 a.m. to noon ET
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Thursday, August 29, 2 to 3:30 p.m. ET, Topic: Multilingual Learners
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Tuesday, September 3, 1 to 2:30 p.m. ET, Topic: Membership
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Tuesday, September 10, 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. ET, Topic: DEX Training for New Users
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Tuesday, September 17, 1 to 2:30 p.m. ET, Topics: Calendar, Attendance, and Pupil Enrollment
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Tuesday, September 24, 10:30 a.m. to noon ET, Topic: Alternative Education
REMINDER: Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC) Valuable Cybersecurity Resource for Indiana Schools
MS-ISAC memberships are free for all public schools/school corporations in Indiana. Services include a 24/7 Security Operations Center, incident response and digital forensics services, monitoring of your public IP ranges and domains for possible compromises, access to a Malicious Code Analysis Platform (MCAP), weekly top-malicious domains and IPs report, free blocking of ransomware with Malicious Domain Blocking and Reporting (MDBR), access to cybersecurity table-top exercises, CIS SecureSuite Membership including access to CIS Benchmarks, CIS-CAT Pro, CIS WorkBench, remediation content, and more. Contact Brad Hagg with any questions.
REMINDER: Free Indiana Cybersecurity Resources
The Indiana Office of Technology (IOT) provides tools and resources to schools on their Local Government Services website. IOT also hosts a monthly virtual town hall on a cybersecurity topic on the second Tuesday of the month from 1 to 2 p.m. ET, and the sign-up for invitations is at the top of the page. House Enrolled Act 1169 requires all schools to designate a cybersecurity incident reporter. This requirement is fulfilled when schools complete the annual technology plan survey, but adding additional incident reporters as well as cyber incident reporting, as required in the law, may be completed. The Indiana Cybersecurity Hub has an abundance of resources including the Indiana Cyber Hub Blog, Cybersecurity for Education Toolkit 2.0, and the Cyber Insurance Toolkit. Contact Brad Hagg with any questions.
REMINDER: LINK Portal Setup Requirements
The LINK Portal is able to recognize all public, charter, and accredited non-public schools’ local Google G-Suite or Microsoft 365 accounts. IDOE configures the organization’s leader as the first account, and the organization leader must log in to designate up to two security coordinators responsible for overseeing the setup of roles for others in the organization. All superintendents and leaders of non-public schools must log in to the LINK Portal and review/update their security coordinators. Failure to do so will result in access issues to IDOE systems.
- Instructions for organization leaders on how to review/designate the security coordinators can be found here.
- The registration process for the LINK Portal for new public and Choice schools can be found here.
- New superintendents or organization leaders of non-public schools who need an initial account configured should email link@doe.in.gov.
REMINDER: Designation of Key Contacts
Security coordinators for all traditional public, charter, and accredited non-public schools are responsible for ensuring their organization’s key contacts for the 2024-2025 school year are set. Key contacts including the roles of Superintendent, Financial Contact, Special Education Director, Principal, Data Exchange Contact, etc. are needed for the 2024-2025 school year even if those contacts were provided last school year.
For school corporations that have an Ed-fi student information system (SIS), key contacts and other staff role assignments should be entered and managed in the local SIS, and then provided to DEX/LINK for the new school year. However, all three options below are available:
- Provide staff classifications in the local SIS per the vendor’s instructions,
- Add a staff type manually for the 2024-2025 school year via the Security Portal, or
- Upload templates 008_StaffAssociation_StaffEdOrgAssignmentAssociation and 009_StaffOrganizationContactAssociation into DEX.
Schools utilizing options two and three may cause overriding or loss of data. Schools should connect with their SIS vendor to better understand how to avoid data loss when providing data via multiple methods.
IDOE will recognize active staff assignments/roles during the summer months from both the previous and upcoming school years, and will begin recognizing only the 2024-2025 school year assignments beginning Sunday, September 1. Security coordinator instructions can be found here. Contact IDOE’s Data Exchange Team with any questions.
REMINDER: SIS Vendor Changes
IDOE-issued Data Exchange credentials (key and secret) are tied to the supporting SIS vendor. If your corporation will be changing or adding an SIS vendor for the upcoming school year, please email link@doe.in.gov with these changes. Your organization will receive a new set of credentials for the new vendor. A SIS vendor certification status list can be found here. Additional information on the implementation of Data Exchange can be found on IDOE's Data Exchange webpage. Contact IDOE’s Data Exchange Team with any questions.
REMINDER: STN Application Center Retirement
IDOE will be retiring the STN Application Center in the second quarter of 2025. This system is being replaced by newer systems including Data Exchange, Ed-ID, a new Choice Voucher Application, and an EdData report called Student Data Backpack. Local data administrators should login to the STN Application Center and download any certified roster data that your school requires under Administration > Retrieve Data, as historic data will not be available in the future. IDOE’s Data Exchange Team is also compiling feedback on which current-year reports are still being utilized by data administrators for state reporting purposes, other than the STN Lookup. Please submit this information here. Contact IDOE's Data Exchange Team with any questions.
NEW: Purdue University Seeks Hydroponic Systems Partnerships
Does your high school have an agriculture, technology, or engineering program? Purdue University seeks to partner with Indiana schools to help lead a digital agriculture technology project through the use of hydroponic units in schools. The projects would consist of students building hydroponic systems and developing digital agriculture technologies to grow crops through indoor vertical farming methods. Students must work with their educator during after-school or non-traditional school settings to complete these projects. Stipends will be allocated to the teachers supporting the efforts. Supplies will also be covered using grant funds. Contact Sophie Lindley with any questions.
REMINDER: Public School Summer School Reimbursement
The window to submit final 2024 summer school costs is now open through Sunday, September 15. Instructions for submitting summer school costs can be found in this memo. Contact IDOE's Office of School Finance with any questions.
REMINDER: Non-Public School Summer School Reimbursement
The window to submit final 2024 summer school costs is now open through Sunday, September 15. Instructions for submitting summer school costs can be found in this memo. Contact IDOE's Office of School Finance with any questions.
REMINDER: School Improvement Plan (SIP) Submissions Due Friday, October 4
IDOE’s Office of School Support and Transformation is accepting Comprehensive Need Assessment (CNA) and SIP submissions through Friday, October 4, on this JotForm. In accordance with IC 20-31-5-1, public and state-accredited non-public schools must develop a strategic and continuous three-year SIP, and review these plans annually. All schools identified as Comprehensive Support and Improvement (CSI), Additional Targeted Support and Improvement (ATSI), or Targeted Support and Improvement (TSI) are required to submit SIPs and CNAs annually. All other schools must submit SIPs during the 2025-2026 school year. Use of IDOE’s ESSA-aligned SIP template is recommended, however, schools may use any template as long as all required portions are included. This memo provides additional information. Contact IDOE’s Office of School Support and Transformation with any questions.
NEW: Homeless Education, Alternative Education, and High Ability Webinars
In order to best support students and staff, the 2024-2025 McKinney-Vento, alternative education, and high ability webinars will begin in September. Communication will be emailed soon, regarding the updated webinar dates and links. Contact IDOE's Office of Student Pathways and Opportunities with any questions.
REMINDER: Career Scholarship Account (CSA) Application Open
The State of Indiana is accepting applications for students to participate in the CSA program during the 2024-2025 school year. The first-in-the-nation CSA program provides $5,000 annually for tenth through twelfth grade students enrolled in eligible work-based learning programs, including internships, apprenticeships, applied learning experiences, and credential attainment experiences. Students at any Indiana high school are encouraged to apply. Applications for the 2024-2025 school year will be accepted through Tuesday, October 1. Visit the student resources page for additional information on the CSA program, eligibility requirements and to access the student application. Additional details on how funds may be used can be found here. Contact IDOE's Office of Student Pathways and Opportunities with any questions.
REMINDER: 2024-2025 School Year Graduation Pathways Office Hours
Graduation Pathways office hours for the 2024-2025 school year are now underway. Use this document for dates, times, and links. Contact IDOE’s Office of Student Pathways and Opportunities with any questions.
REMINDER: Student, School, and Family Engagement Webinar- Teacher Well-being
Join IDOE’s Office of Student, School, and Family Engagement on Thursday, August 29, from 11 a.m. to noon ET to learn about the connection between your own wellness and the wellness of the educators you lead. Register here and contact IDOE's Office of Student, School, and Family Engagement with any questions.
REMINDER: Family Friendly Schools 2025-2026
The 2025-2026 Family Friendly Schools Designation process is now open.
Contact FamilyFriendlySchool@doe.in.gov with any questions.
NEW 2024-2025 Parent Survey Materials Now Available
Each school year, IDOE conducts the parent survey to determine whether parents and families feel included in the special education process. Students (ages 18 and older) and families are encouraged to participate in the survey at least once a year. The survey can be taken online or completed using a paper version that should be mailed to IDOE (instructions can be found within the Google Drive). The survey is available in three languages: English, Spanish, and Burmese. Contact IDOE’s Office of Special Education monitoring team with questions.
NEW: Indiana IEP (IIEP) Update: State Testing Option Updates
PCG will be updating the State Testing option within IIEP. The update will remove the IREAD “opt-in” for first and second grade, and the option will instead read: “Student WILL participate in IREAD administration (applicable for all second grade students).” When completing a first grade IEP, the State Testing option will be present to select for the next school year. Updates will be reflected after Monday, August 26. Contact IDOE’s Office of Special Education with any questions.
NEW: New Special Education Teacher Office Hours
IDOE’s Office of Special Education technical assistance (TA) team will hold office hours for new special education teachers from 4 to 5 p.m. ET on Thursdays once a month, beginning Thursday, September 19. These meetings will help support teachers who are new to special education in navigating a variety of pertinent topics, starting with the roles and responsibilities of the case conference committee. The first half of the meeting will be a formal presentation on a relevant topic, and the last half will be an open Q&A opportunity for teachers of record to ask questions. Registration is not required. Find the link to join here. Contact IDOE’s Office of Special Education with any questions.
NEW: Indicator 13 TA Office Hours
IDOE’s Office of Special Education will provide open office hours to assist special education directors and teachers in improving their transition Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Office hours will take place from 10 a.m. to noon ET and 1 to 3 p.m. ET on Thursday, September 12, Tuesday, September 17, Thursday, September 19, and Friday, September 20. There will also be two extended calls from 1 to 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday, September 24, and Thursday, September 26. These meetings can be accessed here. Contact IDOE’s Office of Special Education monitoring team with questions.
NEW: 2024-2025 Certificate of Multilingual Proficiency Participation Registration Now Open
The Certificate of Multilingual Proficiency (CoMP), Indiana’s Seal of Biliteracy, is awarded to seniors who demonstrate high levels of proficiency in English and another language. It is a great way to celebrate students’ achievement in world language and honor the home language of English learners and heritage speakers. School corporations or non-public schools intending on participating in Indiana’s CoMP must renew their registration annually. Those wishing to participate in the 2024-2025 school year must sign up via this form by March 31, 2025. For more information, see IDOE’s Certificate of Multilingual Proficiency webpage. Schools can use this data template to track student progress and assist with data reporting at the end of the year. Contact IDOE’s Office of English Learning and Migrant Education with any questions.
NEW: September EL Leadership - Programming and Supports for Newcomers
IDOE will host an in-person EL leadership meeting on Thursday, September 19, at Avon Community Schools from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. ET. This meeting is intended for district and school leaders and educators and will consist of small group discussions centered on programming and support to improve outcomes for newcomer English learner students. Registration is required via this form by Friday, September 6. Capacity is limited and registration is capped at two individuals per district, however additional participants can be added to a waitlist. Contact IDOE’s Office of English Learning and Migrant Education with any questions.
REMINDER: September Indiana IEP (IIEP) Virtual Office Hours
Join IIEP virtual office hours sessions hosted by Public Consulting Group (PCG) on the third Wednesday of each month from 11 a.m. to noon ET via Microsoft Teams. Sessions will also be recorded and available in IIEP under the Training tab. Register for September’s session to learn more about recent system updates and upcoming changes, followed by a question and answer session. Contact PCG with questions regarding these office hours.
REMINDER: Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Excess Cost Calculator
The Excess Cost Calculator and instructions are available in the Office of Special Education Moodle Community. LEAs are expected to complete the Excess Cost Calculator; this will not be submitted to IDOE, but should be kept on file locally for audit purposes. As part of the annual IDEA Part B application, LEAs must sign and submit assurances to IDOE stating that the excess cost requirement has been met. Download the calculator and instructions from the Office of Special Education Moodle Community. Contact IDOE’s Office of Special Education with questions.
REMINDER: Special Education Technical Assistance (TA) Updates
IDOE’s Office of Special Education provides updates regarding support for areas of special education improvement as well as state partner changes for assistive technology and accessible educational materials via this memo. Special education directors, professionals, and providers are encouraged to review this guidance for updated TA support. Contact IDOE’s Office of Special Education with any questions.
REMINDER: Certificate of Multilingual Proficiency Required Data Due Sunday, September 1
All school corporations or non-public schools that signed up to participate in Indiana’s Certificate of Multilingual Proficiency (CoMP) for the 2023-2024 school year are required to submit end-of-year data regarding the seniors that earned the award. The Jotform must be submitted by Sunday, September 1. 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: Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Part B Grant Proportionate Share Release (Waiver) Request Forms Available
The FY 2023 Part B 611 and 619 grant proportionate share release request forms are available in the Office of Special Education Moodle Community. Completed requests with supporting documentation must be submitted to IDOE’s Office of Special Education Part B Grants team by Friday, August 30. Following the acceptance of the release form, a Part B grant budget modification request must be completed by Monday, September 16, to transfer funds across budget scopes. Download the release request form and instructions from the Office of Special Education Moodle Community. Contact IDOE’s Office of Special Education with questions.
NEW: General Election Instructional Requirement for Schools
Public and non-public schools serving students in grades six through 12 should plan to meet requirements outlined in Indiana Code (IC) 20-30-5-4, which requires schools to provide instruction “concerning the system of government in Indiana and the United States; methods of voting; party structures; election laws; and the responsibilities of citizen participation in government and elections,” within the two weeks preceding a general election. Educators are welcome to utilize instructional resources included with the social studies frameworks for U.S. Government and U.S. History as they plan their lessons. Contact IDOE’s Office of Teaching and Learning with any questions.
NEW: K-12 Robotics Competition Grant Application Closes Today, Friday, August 23
The 2024-2025 K-12 Robotics Competition Grant is designed to support state-accredited schools and other eligible organizations in establishing or maintaining robotics competition programs to expand opportunities to increase interest and improve skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) through participation in competitive robotics programs. Eligible schools and organizations must submit the official grant application by 11:45 p.m. ET today, Friday, August 23. Contact IDOE’s Office of Teaching and Learning grants team with any questions.
NEW: August Professional Development (PD) with IDOE
August PD with IDOE concludes Wednesday, August 28, with Title I-D: Neglected and Delinquent Institutions presented by IDOE staff. To register for workshops, or view on demand sessions, create a free Indiana 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.
NEW: Opt-In Early Learning Assessment Opportunity
The Indiana Student Performance Readiness and Observation of Understanding Tool (ISPROUT) will be available for children from birth to age two beginning in January 2025. This voluntary opportunity provides a snapshot of children’s abilities in all early learning domains. Complete this form to opt in. You may also opt in for children ages three to five. Contact IDOE’s Office of Kindergarten Readiness with any questions.
NEW: ISPROUT Committee Applications Now Open
Educators for children ages birth to five are needed for item acceptance, standard setting, and reporting committees for ISPROUT. The committees will meet one to two times virtually in October, and stipends will be awarded for participation. Complete the form if interested, and contact IDOE’s Office of Kindergarten Readiness with any questions.
NEW: On My Way Pre-K School Eligibility Update
Public schools can become an approved On My Way Pre-K provider after complying with federally required Child Care Development Fund (CCDF) provider eligibility standards, without reaching a Paths to Quality Level 3 or 4. This allows eligible families of four-year-olds to attend a high-quality pre-K program the year before kindergarten, serving as additional funding for districts to support early learning. View IDOE’s informational session in Indiana Learning Lab to learn about blending and braiding funding streams for preschool programs in schools. If your school is ready to take the next step towards meeting CCDF Provider Eligibility Standards, a school administrator should contact the Emerging Provider Support Team to begin the process of becoming approved. Contact IDOE’s Office of Kindergarten Readiness with any questions.
REMINDER: Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Technology Coach Cohort Now Open
IDOE’s Office of Digital Learning is partnering with Novak Education to provide those in educational technology coaching roles with an opportunity to earn a UDL Associate Level 1 Credential. This opportunity will support participants in the why, what, and how of UDL principles while developing coaching techniques to empower and support teachers in integrating UDL effectively. Those registering must be able to attend two in-person workshops, six virtual sessions, and complete an online course. Register to participate via this form. Registration will close on Friday, September 27, or when registration reaches 90 participants who meet the requirements. Contact IDOE’s Office of Digital Learning with any questions.
REMINDER: 2024-2025 Digital Learning Parent and Family Support Grant
Applications for the 2024-2025 Digital Learning Parent and Family Support Grant are now open through Friday, September 6. This grant allows school corporations to design a plan to support parents with topics related to educational technology and blended/virtual learning environments. See this memo for additional information and to apply. View the Grant Support Session or Success Stories for more support. Contact IDOE’s Office of Digital Learning with any questions.
NEW: Year 4 ESSER Data Collection Revisions Due Wednesday, September 4
Year 4 ESSER Data Collection Revisions are due no later than Wednesday, September 4. Only the CrossAct and ESSER I-III datasheets must be revised. Please see the memo distributed on or about August 20, containing all necessary details. Business Rules for completion may be found at each of these links: CrossAct, ESSER I, ESSER II, ESSER III. Datasheets may be found in this folder as needed. The datasheets revisions should be submitted via this JotForm. Contact Frank Chiki with any questions.
NEW: Fall 2024 Microcredential Program
The Office of Title Grants and Support will continue to offer a microcredential program for experienced program administrators in fall 2024. The microcredential program is a no-cost program that allows program administrators to develop their current practices and participate in ongoing learning and reflection by dedicating between four and six hours of work per microcredential skill. Two optional checkpoints will be provided with IDOE staff for any needed support. Participants will be provided five professional growth plan (PGP) points for each skill, as well as a bonus point on the risk assessment. Interested in participating in the fall informational session on Friday, September 27, at 11 a.m. ET. Please complete the Microcredential Interest Survey. Contact TitleI@doe.in.gov with any questions.
NEW: Charter School Program (CSP) Quality Counts II Cohort 1
Awards for Quality Counts II Cohort 1 will be announced on Monday, August 26. Please check the Charter Weekly Updates for more information. Contact CharterPrograms@doe.in.gov with any questions.
REMINDER: August Coffee Chat
Join IDOE’s Office of Title Grants and Support on Microsoft Teams to discuss charter schools during August’s coffee chat on Thursday, August 29, at 10 a.m. ET. Contact TitleI@doe.in.gov with any questions or topic suggestions.
REMINDER: Quarterly Meeting Schedule for the 2024-2025 School Year
IDOE’s Office of Title Grants and Support will continue hosting a meeting each quarter to provide updates regarding federal grants. The quarterly meetings will be hosted on Thursdays at 10 a.m. ET on the following dates:
The Microsoft Teams links for each meeting are embedded in the dates above. Contact TitleI@doe.in.gov with any questions.
REMINDER: Federal Fiscal Year (FFY) 2024 Budget Applications
FFY24 Title II and FFY24 Title IV budget applications are due by Monday, September 30. The budget applications are being finalized and will be distributed when available. Contact TitleII@doe.in.gov or TitleIV@doe.in.gov with any questions.
REMINDER: Alternative Household Application for Free and Reduced Eligibility
The new Alternative Household Application for Free and Reduced Eligibility form has been released (replacing the former Textbook Rental Assistance form). LEAs may use this alternative form in determining poverty for a Community Eligibility Program (CEP). Charter schools are encouraged to use this form for reporting poverty counts used in calculating Federal Title Funding through Data Exchange. Contact TitleI@doe.in.gov with any questions.
REMINDER: ESSER III American Rescue Plan (ARP) Fiscal Waiver-Consolidated Admin
IDOE will apply for a fiscal waiver to consolidate ESSER III ARP Administrative Funds to provide funding for activities related to closing out ESF ESSER grants until March 2026. This waiver will also allow IDOE and LEAs to more effectively encumber federal financial year (FFY) 2022 federal funds. Specifically, IDOE is requesting the following requirement be waived:
Section 421(b) of the General Education Provisions Act (GEPA) to extend the period of availability of FFY22 funds for programs in which your SEA participates under its approved consolidated state plan until September 30, 2025 (GEPA waiver is not applicable to ESSER III SEA reserve or mandatory subgrant funds).
Feedback will be accepted through this Jotform until 11:45 p.m. ET on Saturday, August 24. Contact Frank Chiki with any questions.
REMINDER: Charter School Program (CSP) Quality Counts II Cohort 2 Application
CSP Quality Counts II Cohort 2 application is now live. Learn more here. Contact CharterPrograms@doe.in.gov with any questions.
NEW FROM THE OFFICE OF U.S. SENATOR TODD YOUNG: Academy Day
Senator Todd Young will host Academy Day on Tuesday, August 27, at the Indiana War Memorial in downtown Indianapolis (55 E. Michigan Street). Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. ET, and the presentation will begin at 6:15 p.m. This event is for high school students who are interested in learning more about attending one of our nation’s service academies. This meeting is an opportunity for students to learn more about the admissions process and what life is like at the U.S. Military Academy, the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Air Force Academy, and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. Contact academy_nominations@young.senate.gov with any questions or to RSVP.
NEW FROM THE SOUTHERN INDIANA EDUCATION CENTER (SIEC): Register for 2024 SIEC Multilingual Learners (ML) Conference
On Thursday, September 26, SIEC will host an exciting day to support all who lead and instruct multilingual learners (MLs). We have designed a day of professional learning that includes topics such as family and community engagement, bridging cultures, and more. In addition to local presenters, we are excited about bringing in two keynote presenters: Luciana de Oliveira and Astrid Emily Francis. For more details and to register, click here. Contact SIEC with questions.
NEW FROM THE EDUCATION SERVICE CENTERS of INDIANA: Outdoor Learning Success in Any Schoolyard Workshop
The Environmental Education Association of Indiana and the Outdoor Learning School & Store will host an all-day professional development event on Monday, September 16, to provide elementary and middle school educators, administrators, and support staff with an in-depth look at the benefits of incorporating outdoor education into their students' learning experience. Register through your local educational service center.
NEW FROM THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION: Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) Smart Beginnings 2024 Webinar
OSEP will host the Smart Beginnings 2024 webinar series from Tuesday, August 27, through Thursday, August 29. The webinars provide participants the opportunity to learn about resources for supporting children with disabilities as we head into a new learning year. Smart Beginnings is a three-day, virtual mini-conference designed to help families, providers, and leaders better support and promote developmental outcomes and educational excellence for infants, toddlers, children, and youth with disabilities and their families. Sessions will include a live question and answer session with presenters. Each session has a different registration link:
Contact OSEP with additional questions.
NEW FROM THE INDIANA COUNCIL OF ADMINISTRATORS OF SPECIAL EDUCATION (ICASE): “Uplift University: Looking Up and Leading On!” Fall Conference
Join ICASE at Caesars Southern Indiana from Wednesday, September 25, through Friday, September 27, for inspiring keynotes, informative breakout sessions, and valuable networking opportunities. Don't miss this chance to connect with colleagues, learn about the latest trends in special education, and discover strategies to elevate your practice. Secure your spot today! For more information and registration information, visit the ICASE website. Contact ICASE with additional questions.
NEW FROM THE INDIANA CONNECTED EDUCATORS CONFERENCE: Register for 2024 Conference Now
Registration is now available for the Indiana Connected Educators Conference this fall, which will be held on Wednesday, October 9, and Thursday, October 10, at Franklin Central Junior High School. More information and registration can be found here. Contact Nadine Gilkison or Jenna Eastham with questions regarding the conference.
NEW FROM THE INDIANA STATE LITERACY ASSOCIATION (ISLA): Fall Literacy Conference
The Indiana State Literacy Association is excited to host educators for the Fall Literacy Conference in Kokomo at the Indiana University Campus on Saturday, November 9. Keynote speaker, author, and read aloud expert Molly Ness will share key strategies in the morning with breakout sessions to follow for the afternoon. Come join the fun and walk away with literacy tips and strategies to grow your literacy community. Additional details and registration can be found here. Contact Dr. Ryan Eckart with any questions.
NEW FROM THE WABASH VALLEY EDUCATION CENTER (WVEC): Second Annual Literacy Conference - Rolling Out the Red Carpet for Best Literacy Practices
Come join the fun and walk away with key tips and strategies to grow your expertise with Dr. Jamey Peavler and Dr. Katie McKnight during WVEC's second annual literacy conference, Rolling Out the Red Carpet for Best Literacy Practices. Additional details and registration can be found here. Contact Melissa Gill with any questions.
NEW FROM THE INDIANA BRANCH OF THE INTERNATIONAL DYSLEXIA ASSOCIATION (IDA): Indiana Accreditation Symposium
The Indiana Branch IDA invites all educator preparation programs (EPPs) to attend the Accreditation Symposium hosted at Marian University on Monday, September 21, from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. This free symposium aims to foster collaboration between state EPPs, explain the IDA accreditation process, explore the Structured Literacy approach, and unpack the knowledge and practice standards (KPS) that define the knowledge and skills that all teachers of reading should possess to teach all students to read proficiently. Presenters include local and state experts in the education field. Together, we can make a difference in advancing literacy education for all students. Please RSVP here by Friday, September 13. Contact IDA-IN with any questions.
REMINDER FROM UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME ADVANCED PLACEMENT TEACHER INVESTMENT PROGRAM (AP-TIP): Annual Fall Conference
This year, AP-TIP at the University of Notre Dame is pleased to extend a wider invitation to its annual fall conference—all teachers of AP, dual credit, or early college courses in math, science, and English are encouraged to register for this event.
- Teachers can expect both opportunities to learn from recognized practitioners in a discipline and an emphasis on highly-effective instructional practices that support and challenge all students at the advanced level.
- Teachers are encouraged to invite colleagues across programs with an eye to equivalent courses (e.g. AP Precalculus = College Algebra and Trigonometry).
- The conference is entirely online, and many subjects feature a combination of plenary and collaborative sessions.
The fall conference runs from Tuesday, September 10, through Thursday, September 12, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET. To see which subjects are offered each day, check the current list of session topics, and register now, visit us online.
REMINDER FROM BUTLER UNIVERSITY: Applications Now Open for the Founder's College
Butler University introduces an exciting new pathway for Indiana high school students who have high potential for postsecondary success, but because of financial barriers feel college is out of reach. Founder’s College at Butler University offers a new, affordable, high-quality two-year degree option right here in Indiana. Applications are now open. The first cohort of students will begin August 2025.
Contact Founders Admissions Director Donneisha Baker with any questions.
REMINDER FROM TEACH INDY: Back-to-School Night with Indy Eleven
Teach Indy is partnering with Indy Eleven soccer to host Back-to-School Night on Saturday, August 31. With discounted tickets for educators and free tickets for students, we want to pack the house to celebrate the start of another great school year. Click here to learn more. Contact bwatson1@indyeleven.com for more information.
REMINDER FROM WARREN ARTS & EDUCATION FOUNDATION & PROJECT REBUILD FOUNDATION: Homeless, Attendance, and Student Pathways Conference
Educators are invited to the Northwest Indiana 2024, Warren Arts & Education Foundation, and Project Rebuild Foundation Homeless, Attendance, and Student Pathways conference, entitled "Indiana: Finding Solutions for the Future” on Wednesday, September 11, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. CT at the Hard Rock Casino in Gary. More information and registration details can be found here.
REMINDER FROM TEACHER INDUSTRY EXPERIENCES IN INDIANA (TIE-IN): Embark on an Exploratory Journey
Elevate your teaching and ignite your creativity with TIE-IN, an initiative designed to bridge the classroom with the dynamic world of industry. This program, brought to life through a partnership with IDOE and Central Indiana Educational Service Center’s Keep Indiana Learning team, is open to all licensed Indiana educators, including prekindergarten through grade 12 classroom teachers, counselors, media specialists, and instructional coaches. Learn more and register here. Contact Dr. Christy Hilton with any questions.
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