Read the purpose of the Indiana's Graduation Pathways Panel to understand why diploma changes recommended for high school students have been met with anger and frustration among educators:

“...to establish graduation pathway recommendations for the State Board of Education that create an educated and talented workforce able not just to meet the needs of business and higher education, but able to succeed in all postsecondary endeavors.”

The emphasis is ours, but the point is clear: Students weren't the primary focus here – it was the workforce. And now, with signals from the governor and legislative leaders that workforce development issues will be a focus in the coming session of the General Assembly, Hoosiers who believe education is about more than job training must make sure their elected officials get the message.

About 200 northeast Indiana educators gathered at Homestead High School this month to hear about the proposal from Jennifer McCormick, superintendent of public instruction. State board members Cari Whicker, a Wells County principal; and Steve Yager, a retired Allen County schools superintendent, also attended.

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