INDIANAPOLIS – Governor Eric J. Holcomb and Indiana Secretary of Education Dr. Katie Jenner recognized educators from 283 schools where at least 95% of students demonstrated reading proficiency in 2024 at a ceremony at the Indiana Statehouse on Wednesday.
North Webster Elementary School had 100% of its students demonstrate reading proficiency, while Nappanee Elementary School had 96.80% of its students demonstrate reading proficiency in 2024.
During the state’s first literacy celebration last February, 241 schools were recognized for reaching the statewide literacy goal, as demonstrated during the 2023 administration of the IREAD assessment. Wednesday's celebration marked an increase of more than 40 additional schools that are now meeting this important goal, according to a news release from the Indiana Department of Education.
“Our statewide goal of achieving 95% reading proficiency among Indiana students is ever closer because of the work these schools have done and continue to do everyday,” said Holcomb. “Reading is foundational to all other educational and quality of life goals we set as a state, and I want to commend the educators at each of the schools honored today for their commitment to a brighter future for our students and the state of Indiana.”
“When it comes to supporting every child to reach their full potential, one of the most important things we can do is teach them to read,” said Dr. Katie Jenner, Indiana secretary of education. “The ability to read has an impact on students’ academic achievement, as well as their lifelong opportunities. While we must certainly continue to keep our foot on the gas pedal to ensure all students are reading by the end of third grade, today is about celebrating the impactful work of schools, educators, parents and families and communities across Indiana working together for students. Congratulations to all of the schools that hit our shared 95% goal, and let’s keep this positive momentum going for Indiana students!”
To support schools and educators, as well as parents and families in preparing students with foundational reading skills, Indiana continues to make investments in literacy, totaling over $170 million, including launching a new data visualization tool that allows educators, parents and families, community leaders and policymakers to view key literacy data; increasing school-level science of reading instructional coaching and support for educators through the Indiana Literacy Cadre; providing over 180,000 hours of learning support and tutoring services to over 20,000 students through Indiana Learns, regardless of a family’s ability to pay; and procuring a preferred universal screener provider to best support elementary schools with students in greatest need.