A pair of bills responding to the 2015 ISTEP problems were signed into law this week.
House Enrolled Act 1003 ensures last year’s ISTEP scores do not unfairly penalize Hoosier teachers and school, since the state transitioned to a new, more rigorous test. The law prevents 2014-2015 ISTEP scores from being used in annual teacher performance evaluations unless those scores improve the teacher’s performance rating.
Senate Enrolled Act 200 provides that a school’s A-F performance rating for the 2014-2015 school year cannot be lower than the assigned performance grade for the 2013-2014 school year.
These efforts reflect a shared commitment to support our educators and schools. This session, we will also work on creating a framework for more streamlined testing and move to an accurate, timely and effective test. We are also focused on attracting top-performing high school students to teaching, encouraging college students to enter the profession and providing educators with more flexibility. Our children are our most precious resource and as a member of the education committee, I am dedicated to making sure they have the best possible education.
This week, I met with members of our community. We had a productive discussion about issues that may be considered by the House this session. I will be hosting two more meetings on Saturday. To see the town hall schedule for Saturday, Jan. 23, click here. I look forward to seeing all of you and gaining your perspective on important issues.
If you have any questions or input as we continue moving forward, please contact me at 317-232-9648 or h58@iga.in.gov.
Sincerely,
State Rep. Woody Burton
