I recently had the opportunity to host a town hall meeting with educators from the school districts of Greenwood, Whiteland and the surrounding area. This was a chance for local teachers and administrators to discuss important education policy issues in an open forum. We had a spirited discussion on a wide range of issues, and I was pleased with the productivity of the conversation.
Among the topics we covered was the ISTEP+ test. Everyone is concerned about the length of the test and the effect that will have on Hoosier children. The General Assembly is sensitive to these concerns, and we have taken steps in conjunction with the Department of Education to shorten the test. As it stands now, the State Board of Education has shortened the test by approximately three hours, which is a start, but more still needs to be done moving forward.
The educators were quite vocal about the role of the superintendent of public instruction, and I appreciate their concerns. We also discussed teacher evaluations. They were not opposed to them, but feel they are over the top.
I appreciate the input of teachers on all of these issues, as it gives me ideas to take back to the General Assembly. Our goal is to provide young Hoosiers with the best education possible and to do that we all must continue to work together on these and other issues.
Sincerely,
