In this episode, Melissa discusses recent updates in education legislation, particularly focusing on the ILEARN Checkpoints and the flexibility allowed for assessments. She highlights the significant changes that permit instructional assistants to administer checkpoints, the importance of data analysis in informing instruction, and introduces a membership program that provides resources for educators. The conversation emphasizes the collaborative efforts in education and the need for multiple data points to assess student performance effectively.

IDOE sent out updates on the required literacy endorsement. I apologize for the delay in covering these changes. As we all know, the end of the school year gets a wee bit busy.

I am going to read through the documents that were emailed and then share my thoughts. It is evident that legislators and IDOE members have acknowledged our concerns and are taking steps in response. I appreciate the changes they have made but would like to continue to work towards fully fixing the issues together.

The IDOE sent out an announcement on May 8, 2024 with and update on the required training provided by Keys to Literacy. There is a screenshot of this memo in the blog post for this episode, if you would like to read it yourself.

I have received some answers from the IDOE to questions I sent to the Literacy Center. Hopefully, you find this helpful.

Paige Miller discusses the process of creating a local teachers union and the benefits it can provide. She shares her experience of transitioning from a union tied to ISTA and NEA to a local union in Carmel. She emphasizes the importance of teachers having a voice in decision-making and the need for a union that truly represents their interests. Paige also discusses the challenges and potential pushback that may arise when starting a local union. The lack of personnel is a major roadblock in education, with one aid having to share their support among multiple teachers. This leads to unqualified individuals working with low-performing students. More funding is needed to support the number of personnel required to meet students' needs. One solution proposed is to bring retired teachers back into the schools and pay them a stipend to provide support in K-3 classrooms. Another suggestion is to provide mentors for first and second-year teachers, offering them a life license and a financial incentive to mentor others. The conversation also highlights the importance of involving teachers in decision-making and highlighting successful teaching practices.

Unfortunately, the IDOE’s live webinar on April 18th created more of a divide between the department and educators. I think the IDOE, and legislators would find that teachers would extend grace if they would come to the table and talk. Educators want this training, but on a more reasonable timeline and without the Praxis exam. As it is educators do not feel heard, while their career and lively hood are being threatened.

There have been some interesting developments surrounding SEA No. 1 and the literacy endorsement requirement. In this episode I will clarify who needs the endorsement, what your training options are, and address new information from the IDOE and ISTA. I believe all of you put enough heat on the IDOE and ISTA to have them backpedaling.

On April 5, 2024 the DOE released more information on the training requirements for teachers who already completed training prior to the passing of SEA No.1. This update also covers how these teachers can receive a voucher for their Praxis exam and how to submit their records of completion.

Welcome to another Educational Awareness podcast. There has been a bit of confusion on the new requirements for renewing a teacher’s license in Indiana. I wanted to address some of those items and give an overview of the Keys to Literacy required training for all teachers.

Welcome back to another episode of Educational Awareness. In this episode we will dig into section 8 of SEA No. 1. This section covers part of the summer school requirements for students who do not pass IREAD. Additional summer school requirements are listed in section 7.

Welcome back to the Educational Awareness podcast. In this episode we will look at a couple of requirements listed under sections 13 and 14 of Indiana SEA No. 1. These sections cover ILEARN and formative assessments. Many items are not new or alarming, so this will be a quick overview.

Welcome to another dive into Indiana SEA No. 1. In this episode, we will explore sections 5 and 6, which outlines the new requirements for teacher licensure in Indiana. I want to make it clear from the beginning I am not against professional development that helps equip teachers with knowledge to improve their instruction and improves the quality of education students receive. I do, however, do not agree with the way state legislators have mandated this professional development. With that being said, let’s dig into section 5.

Part 1 of Indiana SEA No. 1 series:

Section 17 of Senate Enrolled Act number one addresses the iREAD assessment and retention of third-grade students.

Retention based on one test score is not effective and may have negative impacts on student learning.

The iREAD assessment does not provide specific and actionable data for addressing students' reading needs.

Using an assessment like Dibbles can provide more informative data for instruction and intervention.

Parents, educators, and administrators should reach out to state representatives to voice their concerns and advocate for better education policies.