State Board takes action on rule

Indiana Department of Education Release:

The Indiana State Board of Education took action to adopt LSA Document #10-635, a proposed rule to implement the requirements of IC 20-32-8.5. The document adds further explanation to HEA 1367-2010, the 3rd Grade Reading Bill, approved during last year’s General Assembly. HEA 1367-2010 required the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) to “develop a plan to improve reading skills of students and implement appropriate remediation techniques,” up to and including retention after 3rd grade.

“Members of the Indiana General Assembly made it clear last year they believe reading is a fundamental priority in this state,” Superintendent of Public Instruction Dr. Tony Bennett said. “Currently, Indiana ranks 27th nationwide in fourth grade reading achievement, and it is our hope this new reading plan will assist Indiana students in moving towards the head of the pack.”

The proposed rule amends the current law to include the K-6 Reading Framework. The Framework provides research-based guidance on components of effective reading instruction. Schools that have under a 90 percent passing rate on IREAD-3 (the newly created ISTEP+ reading exam) must implement the framework and adopt a scientifically-based core reading program.

Additionally, the rule requires all elementary schools (with grades K-3), including charter schools, to submit an annual reading plan to the department. The plan must include measurable student achievement goals for each grade level, an assessment plan and interventions for struggling students.

Beginning in 2011-2012 school year, promotion decisions will be based on a student’s ability to reach mastery on IREAD-3. If the student does not pass in their first attempt on the IREAD-3 exam, a second attempt during locally offered summer school could result in the student being promoted to the next grade. The rule provides three good cause exemptions for retention. Those include one for special education students, one for English Learners and one for students that have been retained twice prior to fourth grade.

The rule must be approved by the Attorney General and Governor before it is finalized. If finalized, IDOE expects school corporations to submit the reading plan this spring. Pending these decisions, all reading plan interventions and requirements go into effect during the 2011-2012 school year. For more information on the reading framework and reading plan, click here.