Letter: Pay attention to Indiana’s new proposed diplomas

In March, the Indiana Department of Education released new proposed diploma requirements for graduation, Indiana Graduate Prepared to Succeed (GPS). This system creates two diplomas, GPS and GPS Plus and will impact the class of 2029.

One issue this update presents is the continuation of constant upheaval of Indiana’s education system over the past 20 years. Many schools just transitioned to the required graduation pathways and will be forced to modify student guidance. Additionally, as Indiana will be the Guinea pig for this system, there is no clear method for transfer of students among states or to college. With roughly 1/3 of Indiana’s schools in border counties, this will be a nightmare for students and counselors.

The largest concern is student safety and worker protections. The diplomas focus heavily on work-based learning, even in the 9th and 10th grade. At that age, many students have not had a course that includes basic safety. A fifteen-year-old also often does not possess the situational awareness of older students.

The State School Board of Education is taking comment on the requirements. These can be submitted at SBOE_comment@sboe.in.gov or the SBOE website at in.gov/sboe/.

John Hurley
Richland