State seeking comments on overhaul of school letter grades
11/17/2020
An overhaul of the state’s school letter grade system is underway by the Indiana State Board of Education. Last week, the board released a draft framework. During this review of the state’s A – F accountability system, the board is seeking comments and thoughts from educators. Make your voice heard.
As there are different metrics used for grades K – 8 and 9 – 12, there are separate feedback portals for each set of grade levels:
The current A – F accountability system for grades K – 8 relies heavily on standardized test scores, giving equal importance to proficiency and growth. Grades 9 – 12 also includes graduation rates and college and career readiness.
Indiana needs to move forward with an accountability system that recognizes school success and continuous student improvement, rather than a punitive system of school letter grades.
ISTA is advocating for three main components in a revised accountability system:
Professional accountability factors:
- Professional development opportunities for educators onsite and during contract hours and teacher retention outcomes at school and district-level
- Ensuring that all schools have fully licensed educators in every classroom to maintain a stable learning environment for students
- Reduce reliance on standardized test scores and focus more on educators’ professional judgment
Resource accountability factors:
- Annual salary increases (below or above district averages as a baseline)
- Considerations for school socioeconomic factors
School climate and working conditions factors:
- Appropriate class sizes
- Administrative feedback to educators
- Well-rounded curriculum opportunities for all students and extracurricular options
- Student and parent engagement
A panel of educators, four of whom are ISTA members, will meet on Thursday to answer questions and address issues around creating a new accountability system for schools.
ISTA appreciates having educators’ voices included in this process, and we look forward to improving on factors that will result in a more equitable, productive and positive system.