Today, the Indiana Department of Education received word from the United States Department of Education that Indiana has received a waiver from certain aspects of the federal No Child Left Behind law. In addition, all conditions were removed from Indiana’s waiver. This will give local schools continued flexibility in how they utilize federal funding and allow more funding decisions to be made at the local level.

In response to this news, Glenda Ritz, Indiana’s Superintendent of Public Instruction issued the following statement:

“On behalf of Indiana’s schools, I am incredibly pleased to learn that our waiver request has been granted. This news means that local schools throughout our state will receive much needed flexibility in how they utilize their federal dollars. This waiver extension also will allow Indiana to have continued flexibility in how we measure student performance and growth.

“During my time as Superintendent, we have adopted the highest standards in Indiana history, modernized ISTEP and begun the process to strengthen our accountability system. Additionally, we have put in place a strong and positive grassroots system of outreach and support for Indiana schools. Today’s decision by the United States Department of Education validates the work that we have done.

“I want to thank the members of the Indiana Department of Education for the incredible work they did to get this waiver for our schools. I truly appreciate their efforts as they work alongside educators, parents, community leaders and local organizations to meet the needs of Indiana’s children.

“I also want to thank Senators Coats and Donnelly, as well as our entire Congressional delegation for their support, as well as leaders in the Statehouse. Finally, I want to thank Secretary Duncan, Assistant Secretary Deb Delisle and the United States Department of Education for their assistance throughout this application process.”

Source: Indiana Department of Education, Inside INdiana Business