INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — State education officials say that over half of Indiana schools met or exceeded federal academic expectations based on their 2018-19 performance.

Data released by the Indiana Department of Education show that over 56 percent of Indiana high schools and 53 percent of elementary and middle schools received a rating of Meets Expectations or Exceeds Expectations in the Federal School Accountability Ratings.

Locally, more than 70% of South Bend Community School Corporation schools are categorized as not meeting expectations.

The ratings are based on multiple factors, including students’ proficiency on statewide tests, graduation rates and the closing of achievement gaps.

The full report can be accessed here.

“I am proud of the work Indiana schools are doing to academically prepare our children for life beyond high school,” said State Superintendent Dr. Jennifer McCormick. “To better serve schools for future successes, however, it is important we develop a single modernized state-legislated accountability system that is fair, accurate, and transparent. Our kids, schools, teachers, and parents deserve it.”

Schools are rated by both the federal government and the state, but the state’s grades have been delayed so Indiana lawmakers can look at a so-called “hold harmless” bill that would allow poorly-performing schools to avoid punishment due to bad ILEARN test results.

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