Chalkbeat Indiana

Indiana is advocating for a new postsecondary educational model where students enter the workforce through high school apprenticeship and internship programs, rather than going directly to college. The state's goal is helping more students secure high-paying jobs in fields facing shortages, with degrees serving as means of advancement later on. This initiative includes launching Indiana Career Apprenticeship Programs (INCAP) and involves Ivy Tech Community College for focused workforce development.

Indiana charter schools could receive an estimated $49.5 million from upcoming ballot questions regarding property tax increases across several counties this November. While state law mandates that districts share these revenues, nearly all of the funds—$48.7 million—are not accounted for in official spending plans, leading to limited oversight on how the money might be used for operations like staff salaries or academic programs.

Indiana school districts are asking voters for higher property tax rates to cover operating expenses and adapt to new taxes like Senate Enrolled Act 1 from 2025. The article warns that some ballot questions may misleadingly suggest a new rate is added on top of existing taxes, when it may actually replace the current lower rate.

A record number of Indiana school districts are requesting voter approval for property tax increases in November due to financial strain from declining enrollment, rising operational costs, and property tax reform. The state law allows districts to seek additional funds via referendums during the general election, but the changes have created revenue challenges for schools.

A Chalkbeat analysis finds the median tuition gap between Indiana Choice Scholarship vouchers and private school costs in Indianapolis is $1,694 for the 2024-25 school year. The voucher program, now universal for all Indiana families, faces criticism for disproportionately benefiting wealthier households and leaving low-income families to cover significant tuition gaps, while supporters argue it expands educational choice.

Indiana's new laws allow school board candidates to run under partisan labels, with 524 candidates choosing party affiliations (72% Republican, 6% Democrat, 7% independent). The impact of partisan labels on school board dynamics and funding decisions remains unclear, as debates highlight differing views within parties and the nonpartisan nature of school governance.

The 2026 Marion County school board elections may feature candidates listing political party affiliations for the first time, alongside potential property tax increase requests due to revenue losses from recent reforms. Key challenges include implementing AI in schools and enforcing a student cellphone ban, with elected boards influencing budget decisions if tax proposals fail.

Decatur Township schools in Indiana are changing school start and end times to reduce transportation costs and improve student well-being, such as more sleep for middle schoolers. The district faces financial pressures from reduced property tax revenue due to state reforms and plans to address budget shortfalls through a potential tax referendum. The changes aim to consolidate six bus schedules into three, saving $3 million and aligning with fiscal responsibility goals.

Indiana school board elections this year will feature new partisan labels for candidates and potential tax increase referendums. A panel discussion on July 8 at the Indiana History Center will explore these changes and their impact on students, featuring experts from Ball State University, the Indiana School Boards Association, and Indianapolis Public Schools.