The Indiana Department of Education has unveiled a revised diploma proposal for Indiana high school students, following criticism from higher education institutions and other officials regarding the initial draft. The new proposal includes base requirements for all students, as well as opportunities to enhance their education through readiness seals.

Katie Jenner, Indiana's secretary of education, presented a draft of the new diploma structure during a State Board of Education meeting on Tuesday. The revised plan includes a more flexible version of the traditional diploma and a focus on work-based learning requirements. The department believes these options will better prepare students for their post-graduation endeavors.

Previously, concerns were raised by various higher education institutions regarding the proposed diploma changes, questioning whether they would adequately prepare students for higher education. In response to these concerns, Jenner emphasized the importance of tailoring educational paths to meet the unique goals and aspirations of each student.

The new diploma proposal includes a set of base requirements for students to graduate in the state of Indiana. These requirements encompass a minimum of 42 credits, leaving room for students to potentially obtain up to 60 credits. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to earn readiness seals to further personalize their high school experience.

There are two types of readiness seals that Indiana high school students can strive for: an Honors Seal or an Honors Plus seal. Each seal can be earned in one of three categories: enrollment, employment, or enlistment and service. The specific requirements for each seal are as follows:

- Honors Enrollment Seal: Students must earn a 3.5 GPA or higher in core academic subjects and complete at least one Advanced Placement (AP) or dual credit course.
- Honors Employment Seal: Students must complete a work-based learning experience or internship, as well as demonstrate proficiency in employability skills.
- Honors Enlistment Seal: Students must meet the requirements for enlistment in a branch of the military, including physical fitness standards and passing an entrance exam.

In letters accompanying the draft proposal, many officials, including leaders from higher education institutions and representatives from public school groups, expressed their support for the new diploma requirements. Purdue President Mung Chiang commended the department for offering a broad range of choices and flexible pathways for all high school students. Similarly, Indiana University President Pamela Whitten praised the new draft for providing much-needed guidance in developing graduation plans. Both presidents expressed their hope that these seals will be encouraged as mutually beneficial options, preparing students for a wide range of post-secondary opportunities.

The revised diploma proposal aims to provide a brighter future for Indiana students by aligning their educational experiences with their individual goals and aspirations. The Indiana Department of Education remains committed to listening to stakeholders and refining the plan to ensure it meets the needs of all students in the state.