Indy Standard

State Representative Jake Teshka's proposed legislation, aimed at improving math skills among Indiana's K-12 students, has passed the state legislature and is now awaiting the governor's consideration to become law. House Enrolled Act 1634 is a comprehensive initiative intended to boost math education throughout the state by addressing the needs of advanced learners, at-risk students, and educators with a personalized, outcome-focused instructional approach.

"Strong math skills are essential for preparing students for success in fast-growing STEM fields," said Teshka, highlighting the importance of the bill. "As a legislator, my goal is to equip every student with the tools they need for success and to reach their full potential. This bill supports that mission by empowering advanced learners and ensuring extra help for those who need it the most."

The legislation follows previous efforts by Teshka to improve literacy, including a 2023 law that introduced science of reading standards and provided focused assistance to Indiana students with significant reading challenges. The latest results from the 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) demonstrated Indiana's ongoing growth in education, with the state ranking sixth nationally in reading for fourth and eighth graders, and ninth in math for fourth graders, up from eleventh place.

"Students have made significant strides in reading, driven by the hard work of Hoosier educators and a targeted focus on literacy," Teshka stated. "The next step is to bring that same level of commitment to math, ensuring that teachers and students have the tools and support they need to achieve similar success."

The act proposes to improve math readiness by automatically enrolling middle school students meeting specific proficiency criteria into advanced math courses to prepare them for higher-level math and STEM opportunities. Parents will retain the right to withdraw their children if they choose. For those struggling, the bill mandates state-approved numeracy screenings for kindergarten through second grade to identify early gaps and deliver specific support.

Additionally, Teshka indicated that the Indiana Department of Education would evaluate teacher preparation programs, with non-compliant programs potentially losing accreditation after a formal review and process.

For more details or to view session and committee meetings live, visit iga.in.gov.