
STATEHOUSE – Indiana schools are poised to return to an A-F letter grade rating system under new legislation that unanimously passed the House Education Committee on Wednesday. House Bill 1498, authored by Committee Chair Bob Behning, calls for the State Board of Education to develop a new grading framework by the end of 2025.

The proposed system, which would take effect in the 2026-27 academic year, aims to evaluate schools beyond academic performance and graduation rates. School grades have been suspended since 2018 following Indiana’s switch from ISTEP to a new standardized test and subsequent disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Education Secretary Katie Jenner emphasized that the new model will focus on student-centered outcomes and skill development. “This should really provide actionable feedback for our schools, teachers, parents, and families,” Jenner said. “It should never be a gotcha system.”
The bill proposes different evaluation criteria for various grade levels. Elementary schools would be assessed on IREAD scores, literacy rates, and attendance, while middle schools would consider math and English proficiency and advanced coursework participation. High schools would incorporate additional measures, including diploma seals and work-based learning credentials.
The legislation now moves to the full House for consideration.