Indiana High School Diploma Redesign Approved by State Education Board with Unanimous 11-0 Vote

INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana Department of Education has unanimously approved a redesign of the high school diploma during a board meeting, with an 11-0 vote.

The new diploma consists of 42 credits and offers three distinct pathways for students: “enrollment,” “employment,” and “enlistment & service.” Students have the opportunity to earn up to 60 credits.

Importantly, this redesign will not impact the availability of alternative diplomas for special education students.

The initial proposals for the diploma faced significant criticism from parents, educators, and higher education institutions. The first drafts focused heavily on workplace readiness, shifting the emphasis away from college preparation and towards equipping graduates for immediate entry into the workforce.

However, a proposed work requirement demanding at least 75 hours of work experience was unpopular among students and parents, who felt it pressured them into working to achieve a higher-tier diploma.

In August, the first proposal was abandoned in favor of a revised plan that Secretary of Education Katie Jenner described as one that “maximized flexibility for students so that they can personalize their journey while maintaining rigor.”

After extensive discussions, the final draft of the diploma was passed unanimously. Schools in Indiana will be able to offer this new diploma starting in the 2025-26 school year; however, students must earn a seal to participate. By the 2028-29 school year, this new diploma will apply to all graduating seniors.