Indiana will reintroduce A–F school grades in 2026 under a redesigned accountability system aligned with the state’s Graduates Prepared to Succeed vision. The model expands beyond test scores to include:
– academic mastery and student growth;
– career and post-secondary readiness (credentials, diplomas and work-based learning);
– work ethic (attendance and engagement); and
– communication, collaboration and civic/financial literacy.
This year will serve as a transition year, with informational grades released before full accountability takes effect. This shift takes a more holistic view considering more than just standardized test results and better aligns K–12 outcomes with employer expectations, emphasizing both knowledge and employability skills. We will be watching this closely during implementation and expect to see legislation regarding failing schools introduced in 2027.
