"Senate Bill 1 introduces critical changes designed to enhance reading proficiency with new support and intervention strategies. While ISTA recognizes these efforts' potential to positively impact student learning, the emphasis on retention is shortsighted. This approach does not tackle the fundamental issues affecting educational outcomes. Educators are prepared to implement these initiatives, focusing on early intervention and comprehensive support to reduce the need for retention as much as possible.

Today's literacy challenges did not happen in a vacuum but are the result of longstanding systemic problems, including the chronic underfunding of public schools and lack of support for educators. These problems have compounded, bringing us to the urgent situation we currently face. ISTA strongly encourages lawmakers to confront and address these foundational challenges. By doing so, we can truly ensure the success and well-being of all Indiana students."