Bob Behning

STATEHOUSE (March 19, 2020) – “Governor Holcomb’s call to suspend statewide standardized testing for this school year is the right move for Indiana students and schools. Now is the time for kids to stay home and finish the year through remote and e-learning where possible. Our schools are doing a tremendous job of communicating with parents, and making sure students have access to resources and meals. These are tough times, but the health and well-being of students, educators and Hoosiers are priority one.”

Hendricks County natives Mariah Dragonette and Lucas Smith are gaining experience as interns with the Indiana House of Representatives during the 2020 legislative session.

Many young Hoosiers participate in paid internships, apprenticeships and work-based learning programs to help jumpstart their careers. Unfortunately, some may turn down these valuable experiences because the income they earn could put their families at risk of losing benefits, like Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. A proposed new law could help ensure students do not have to pick between potential career opportunities and the needs of their families.

Nearly half of Hoosier employers have unfilled positions due to not having enough qualified applicants. In just two years, it is expected the state will need to fill approximately 1 million jobs. As Indiana continues to skill up its workforce, our efforts at every level must be aligned.

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 12, 2020) – State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) Tuesday recognized Plainfield Community School Corp. Teacher of the Year Adam Ferguson in the House Chamber.

As we wrap up National School Choice Week, we continue celebrating the opportunities available to parents taking control of their child’s education. Parents understand their student’s strengths and challenges, and are in the best position to determine where their child will succeed academically. After visiting schools within our community and throughout the state, it is clear students excel when they are in a learning environment meeting their unique needs. 

The foundation of our country and the freedoms we enjoy today come at a great price. For hundreds of years, brave men and women rushed to the frontlines to protect us. Unfortunately, too many military men and women face a multitude of challenges when they return home. From physical and emotional scars to unemployment and homelessness, our Hoosier heroes need our support.

STATEHOUSE (Jan. 14, 2020) – Hendricks County lawmakers are encouraging Hoosier students interested in state government to participate in the Indiana House Page Program during the 2020 legislative session.

The Abraham Lincoln Elementary School FIRST LEGO League Jr. team joins State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) (back row, center) in the House Chamber on Thursday, Jan. 9, 2020, at the Statehouse. The team was recognized by the Indiana House of Representatives for their passion for learning about science, technology, engineering and math subjects. FIRST LEGO League Jr. is a program designed to introduce STEM concepts to students ages 6 to 10.

PHOTO CAPTION: State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis), chair of the House Education Committee, meets with educators from MSD Decatur Township Schools to address their needs Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2019 at the Statehouse. During their meeting, Behning discussed driving more dollars to teachers, holding educators and schools harmless from ILEARN scores and growing the education profession. Educators from across the state visited the Statehouse during a Red For Ed Rally.

STATEHOUSE (Oct. 31, 2019) – Hendricks County legislators encourage aspiring teachers planning or pursuing a degree in education to apply for the Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship.

STATEHOUSE (Oct. 22, 2019) – State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) was recently selected to serve as a member of two national education boards, where he will collaborate with education leaders from across the country.   

STATEHOUSE (Oct. 10, 2019) – Hendricks County communities will receive over $1.8 million in state matching grants to accelerate road and bridge improvements, according to area legislators.

STATEHOUSE (Oct. 8, 2019) – Perry Township Schools are among three school districts awarded a federal grant by the National Institute for Excellence in Teaching to create career ladders and mentorship programs for local educators.

Indiana spent the last several years taking a critical look at the type of annual assessment students take and how the results are used. This led to eliminating the troubled ISTEP exam and creating ILEARN – Indiana’s Learning Evaluation Assessment Readiness Network.

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 26, 2019) – “We knew there would be an adjustment period as we transitioned from ISTEP to ILEARN. While these results are not the ones we had hoped for, the value of Hoosier students and teachers is not defined by test scores, but by the learning being accomplished in the classroom. We are taking a hard look at our overall state accountability system. Our priority continues to be preparing students for life after high school, whether they enter the workforce immediately or continue their education.”

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 8, 2019) – Hendricks County lawmakers invite local college students and recent graduates to apply for the Indiana House Republican Internship Program, which takes place during the 2020 legislative session at the Statehouse in Indianapolis.

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 5, 2019) – Marion County lawmakers invite local college students and recent graduates to apply for the Indiana House Republican Internship Program, which takes place during the 2020 legislative session at the Statehouse in Indianapolis.

A recent state audit found two virtual charter schools received funding to educate students, but failed to do just that. Like so many, I’m incredibly frustrated by this news.

STATEHOUSE (May 13, 2019) – Aspiring teachers from Marion County were recently selected to receive the Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship, according to local lawmakers.

The legislative session began with a promise to students, teachers and schools that they would have the necessary tools and resources to drive student success. As our official business concluded at the end of April, it was clear education remained a top priority for lawmakers. With record investments in K-12 funding and innovative programs to help elevate the teaching profession, our schools can continue educating young Hoosiers.

STATEHOUSE (April 26, 2019) – Hoosier schools can now tap new grant money in order to compensate experienced educators who mentor new teachers after legislation authored by State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) was signed into law. 

STATEHOUSE (April 25, 2019) – Hoosier four-year-olds statewide could soon have access to pre-K, thanks to legislation authored by State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis).

Across the state, more children are being placed in temporary homes and spending part of their childhood in foster care. The trauma experienced during this chaotic and confusing time impacts young Hoosiers in many ways. As part of ongoing efforts to improve the outcomes for kids in the foster care system, we are looking for ways to help them succeed in school. Thanks to a recent report, we now have a better understanding of the challenges foster care students face, and how we can better meet their needs.

STATEHOUSE (April 10, 2019) – State Rep. Bob Behning’s (R-Indianapolis) legislation that would provide educators additional opportunities to earn more while remaining in the classroom could soon become law after Tuesday’s unanimous vote in the Indiana Senate.

Outside of parents, quality teachers are the single most important factor in student success. To keep skilled educators in the classroom, I am sponsoring legislation to provide local schools more flexibility to increase salaries across the board and ensure veteran educators are not undercompensated compared to their newer peers. As professionals gain experience, a salary that grows to match their skills is one of the key influences to staying in their career. 

STATEHOUSE (April 1, 2019) – On My Way Pre-K applications for the 2019-2020 school year are now available for Marion County 4-year-olds, according to State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis).

Across the state and within our community, the Salvation Army works with locals to support those in need. From providing food and shelter to helping those suffering from addiction, this organization has taken many steps to help struggling Hoosiers. Because of their commitment to helping those in need, House lawmakers partnered with the Indiana Division of The Salvation Army to raise awareness for childhood hunger and collect backpacks and kid-friendly food items for students.

As more businesses choose to set up shop in Indiana and offer high-paying jobs, it is becoming increasingly important to ensure Hoosier students graduate with the skills and experience necessary to enter the workforce. By 2021, it is estimated that our state will need to fill 1 million jobs. In order to prepare for these jobs, students must complete their high school education with the necessary skills and knowledge to obtain a job.

From jumping into the workforce to continuing their schooling, high school graduates have many options as they begin the next chapter of their lives. Throughout school, young Hoosiers must develop strong academic foundations and critical skills in order to achieve their goals. Their success upon graduation is a reflection of the education they received, and schools meeting this goal deserve to be recognized. 

Each year, more than 35,000 people in Indiana are diagnosed with some form of cancer. In an effort to raise awareness and encourage Hoosiers to take more preventive measures against this disease, I participated in the Suits and Sneakers challenge at the Statehouse. The event is part of a nationwide effort by the American Cancer Society and the National Association of Basketball Coaches to highlight the need to adopt healthy habits to prevent cancer. While we had fun wearing our sneakers with our professional attire, it was an important reminder that too many are impacted by this devastating disease.

RAISING AWARENESS: (left to right) Indianapolis-area State Reps. Mike Speedy, Cherrish Pryor, Dave Frizzell and Bob Behning pair sneakers with their suits to draw attention to National Cancer Prevention Month Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2019, at the Statehouse. Each year, the Indiana House of Representatives participates in the Suits and Sneakers challenge, an annual event hosted by the American Cancer Society and the National Association of Basketball Coaches. With an estimated 35,280 Hoosiers expected to be diagnosed with cancer this year, local lawmakers encourage everyone to get regular screenings, eat a healthy diet and avoid tobacco use.

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 19, 2019) – The House of Representatives Monday voted in favor of State Rep. Bob Behning’s (R-Indianapolis) legislation expanding Indiana’s On My Way Pre-K pilot program statewide.

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 11, 2019) – The House Education Committee Monday voted in support of State Rep. Bob Behning’s (R-Indianapolis) legislation that would provide high-quality pre-K options to low-income families statewide. 

Students who participate in high-quality early education programs start their academic careers off strong, and are typically more successful later in life. Because pre-K is one of the most effective ways to close achievement gaps children from low-income families often face, I championed laws establishing the On My Way Pre-K pilot program in 20 counties. This year, I am working to expand this program statewide.

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 5, 2019) – The House of Representatives recently advanced State Rep. Bob Behning’s (R-Indianapolis) legislation that would strengthen Indiana’s virtual education programs.

STATEHOUSE (Jan. 29, 2019) – The House of Representatives on Monday advanced State Rep. Bob Behning’s (R-Indianapolis) legislation that would provide educators additional opportunities to earn more while remaining in the classroom.

Every child deserves an effective, challenging and motivating education. To drive student success, Indiana continues empowering parents to choose the school that best fits the needs of their child. As we celebrate National School Choice Week highlighting Indiana’s strong school choice opportunities, it’s important to recognize how vital it is to put parents in control of their child’s education.

STATEHOUSE (Jan. 17, 2019) – Key House committees advanced State Rep. Bob Behning’s (R-Indianapolis) legislation that would provide more career opportunities for educators.

Educators are a vital part of student lives and our local schools. They are the nation builders of our country and the foundation of our communities. To elevate the teaching profession and provide more dollars to educators, I collaborated with the Indiana State Teachers Association, Teach Plus and Stand for Children on several pieces of legislation to attract and keep highly qualified professionals teaching kids. 

STATEHOUSE (Jan. 8, 2019) – The House Education Committee on Wednesday will consider State Rep. Bob Behning’s (R-Indianapolis) bill that would provide more career opportunities for educators.

STATEHOUSE (Dec. 20, 2018) – Local students who want to learn more about state government are encouraged to participate in the Indiana House Page Program during the 2019 legislative session.

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 9, 2018) – With area students back in the classroom, several House lawmakers teamed up to meet with Southport Elementary students and educators on Tuesday.

STATEHOUSE (July 31, 2018) – Indiana House Republicans are now accepting internship applications for the 2019 legislative session, which begins in January.

State Reps. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis), Dave Frizzell (R-Indianapolis), Cindy Kirchhofer (R-Beech Grove) and Mike Speedy (R-Indianapolis) invite local college and graduate students and recent graduates to apply before Oct. 31.

STATEHOUSE (July 18, 2018) — With students and educators preparing to head back to the classroom in the coming weeks, State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) said many new laws impact local school districts.

STATEHOUSE (June 8, 2018) – The Indiana Foreign Language Teachers Association recognized State Reps. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) and Peggy Mayfield (R-Martinsville) for their work in creating Indiana’s Dual-Language Pilot Program on Thursday at the Statehouse.

STATEHOUSE (May 2, 2018) — Students in Marion County planning to pursue a career in education were selected to receive the Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship, according to local lawmakers.

STATEHOUSE (April 26, 2018) — “Indiana’s competitive business and economic climate has made the state a top destination for job creators in high-tech fields. The job and educational opportunities Infosys will provide to the Indianapolis community, especially to the neighborhoods surrounding the airport, will be a catalyst for continued economic growth in central Indiana. With this very exciting announcement, Infosys joins several businesses already planning to expand operations, invest and provide career opportunities in Indianapolis.”

STATEHOUSE (April 24, 2018) — Students with dyslexia will soon have access to more resources thanks to legislation sponsored by State Reps. Woody Burton (R-Whiteland) and Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis).

STATEHOUSE (March 23, 2018) — The governor recently signed several bills authored by State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) addressing Indiana’s diploma system and providing flexibility for educators and schools.

STATEHOUSE (March 16, 2018) — State Rep. Bob Behning’s (R-Indianapolis) legislation that would create a single high school diploma for Hoosier students could soon become law.

STATEHOUSE (March 15, 2018) — State Rep. Bob Behning’s (R-Indianapolis) legislation that would give school districts the flexibility to collaborate in order to drive student success could soon become law.

STATEHOUSE (March 7, 2018) — On My Way Pre-K applications are now open for 4-year-olds in Marion County for the 2018-2019 school year, according to State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis).

It seems like there’s an announcement every other day of a business expanding or relocating to Indiana. It’s no surprise more and more companies are setting up shop in our state. For example, over the last several years CNBC has ranked Indiana the best in the Midwest for the cost of doing business. Just last year, we were second in the nation for software-related job growth. As more entrepreneurs and tech firms begin to call Indiana home, it’s important they know Hoosiers are ready and able to fill new job openings. It’s clear we need to do more to educate and train more workers to meet this need.

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 23, 2018) — State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) recently welcomed student pages to the Statehouse.

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 21, 2018) — State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) honored the life of Dr. Kevin Rodgers on Tuesday with a resolution at the Statehouse.

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 16, 2018) — Deirdre Kelley of Indianapolis is gaining experience as an intern with State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) and his fellow members of the House of Representatives during the 2018 legislative session.

RAISING AWARENESS: (From left to right) State Reps. Greg Steuerwald (R-Avon) and Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) pair sneakers with their suits on Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2018, at the Statehouse in Indianapolis to draw attention to National Cancer Prevention Month. Each year, the Indiana House of Representatives participates in the Suits and Sneakers Challenge, an annual event sponsored by the American Cancer Society and the National Association of Basketball Coaches. According to the Indiana State Department of Health, 2 out of 5 Hoosiers will develop cancer in their lifetime.

RAISING AWARENESS: State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) pairs sneakers with his suit on Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2018, at the Statehouse in Indianapolis to draw attention to National Cancer Prevention Month. Each year, the Indiana House of Representatives participates in the Suits and Sneakers Challenge, an annual event sponsored by the American Cancer Society and the National Association of Basketball Coaches. The Suits and Sneakers Challenge is an effort to highlight ways to reduce the risk of cancer; like eating right, exercising and making healthy lifestyle choices.

By 2022, there will be more than 1 million job openings in Indiana that need to be filled in high-wage, high-skilled areas. Many of these jobs will require a solid background in science, technology, engineering or math. To better prepare Hoosier students to fill these job positions, we must ensure they have a strong foundation in STEM subjects before they leave school.

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 6, 2018) — State Rep. Bob Behning’s (R-Indianapolis) legislation aiming to build a stronger math and science foundation in elementary school students advanced out of the House of Representatives on Monday.

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 5, 2018) — The House of Representatives supported State Rep. Bob Behning’s (R-Indianapolis) legislation on Monday that would create a single high school diploma for Indiana students.

STATEHOUSE (Jan. 31, 2018) — The House of Representatives voted in favor of State Rep. Bob Behning’s (R-Indianapolis) legislation on Wednesday that would give school districts the flexibility to collaborate in order to drive student success.

STATEHOUSE (Jan. 30, 2018) — The House of Representatives voted Monday in support of a bill that would provide a critical next step in meeting the needs of Hoosier students in foster care co-authored by State Reps. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) and Dave Frizzell (R-Indianapolis).

As the skills needed to be successful in a career continue to evolve and change, it’s vital that we start taking steps to ensure students are prepared to enter the ultra-competitive, global workforce once they graduate from high school. Over the last few years, I have worked with students, parents, educators and business leaders from across the state to find ways to empower Hoosier students with more control over their academic and career goals.

STATEHOUSE (Jan. 23, 2018) — The House Committee on Education supported State Rep. Bob Behning’s (R-Indianapolis) legislation on Tuesday that would streamline Indiana’s high school diploma options.

The 2018 legislative session is in full swing, and I am working on behalf of you and your family to move Indiana forward. Falling on an even-numbered year, this 10-week legislative term is considered a “short session” because we won’t be considering a biennial budget. We must complete all business by March 14. This year, House Republicans are focused on addressing K-12 funding, strengthening Indiana’s workforce, attacking the opioid epidemic and increasing government efficiency.

STATEHOUSE (Nov. 6, 2017) — Plainfield High School was among 130 schools honored during Monday’s Indiana Dual Credit Recognition Ceremony at the Statehouse, according to State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis).

STATEHOUSE (Oct. 18, 2017) – Applications to intern with the Indiana House Republicans during the 2018 legislative session are due Oct. 31, according to State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis).

STATEHOUSE (Sept. 27, 2017) — State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) visited Concordia Lutheran High School and Lutheran South Unity School in Fort Wayne on Wednesday, where he observed classrooms and discussed the state’s school choice policies.

Behning will visit Concordia Lutheran High School and Lutheran South Unity School to observe classroom activities and discuss education policies, including school choice, with students and educators. 

STATEHOUSE (Sept. 21, 2017) — Local communities will receive state matching grants to improve roads and bridges, according to State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis).

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 18, 2017) — “With Wes’ experience as Plainfield’s current clerk-treasurer and his private-sector background, I’m confident that he will represent our community well at the state level. His commitment to fiscal responsibility and experience working in local government give him the tools necessary to be successful as the next DLGF commissioner. I look forward to seeing Wes grow in his new role,” Behning said.

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 17, 2017) – Hoosier job seekers now have access to new resources to find better-paying jobs thanks to the recently launched Next Level Jobs initiative, according to State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis).

STATEHOUSE (July 14, 2017) — “Over the next five years, our community will have nearly 400 miles of road lanes resurfaced, 65 miles of new lanes added and more than 100 bridges rehabilitated or replaced. This is a significant amount of work being done in our area, and it is encouraging to know that these projects will be funded without creating debt or placing the financial burden on future generations. This tremendous investment will drive our local economies and help maintain Indiana’s reputation as the Crossroads of America.” 

STATEHOUSE (June 27, 2017) — Gov. Eric Holcomb ceremonially signed into law Monday State Rep. Bob Behning’s (R-Indianapolis) legislation expanding Indiana’s pre-K pilot program.

STATEHOUSE (June 15, 2017) — State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) earned a 98 percent on the Indiana Chamber of Commerce’s annual Legislative Vote Analysis for his support of pro-jobs, pro-economy legislation.

STATEHOUSE (June 8, 2017) — Gov. Eric Holcomb ceremonially signed into law Wednesday State Rep. Bob Behning’s (R-Indianapolis) legislation replacing ISTEP with Indiana’s Learning Evaluation Assessment Readiness Network (ILEARN).

STATEHOUSE (May 15, 2017) — Local students planning to pursue a career in education are among the recipients of this year’s Next Generation Hoosier Educator Scholarship, according to State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis). 

STATEHOUSE (April 28, 2017) — Gov. Eric Holcomb signed into law Friday State Rep. Bob Behning’s (R-Indianapolis) legislation to replace ISTEP with Indiana’s Learning Evaluation Assessment Readiness Network (I-LEARN).

Each year, the General Assembly strives to create the best education environment possible for Hoosier students. This session was no different. House Republicans worked hard to bring high-quality preschool education to more at-risk children in our state with the responsible expansion of the On My Way Pre-K pilot program. We also addressed the many issues with ISTEP and built on legislation from last year to effectively replace ISTEP with a newer, more efficient statewide assessment.

STATEHOUSE (April 27, 2017) — Gov. Eric Holcomb signed into law Wednesday State Rep. Bob Behning’s (R-Indianapolis) legislation expanding Indiana’s pre-K pilot program.

STATEHOUSE (April 26, 2017) — State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) recently welcomed student pages to the Statehouse.

STATEHOUSE (April 21, 2017) — Legislation authored by State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) that would replace ISTEP and create a new statewide assessment system could soon become law. 

STATEHOUSE (April 21, 2017) — State Rep. Bob Behning’s (R-Indianapolis) legislation expanding Indiana’s pre-K pilot program from five to 20 counties could soon become law. 

So far this year, Indiana has been recognized for a number of accomplishments. Our state government, small business climate, personal income growth and unemployment rates are among the best in the country. 

Knowing what is happening in our schools is vital to my role as chair of the House Committee on Education. One way I do this is by visiting schools in our community and observing classrooms across the state. Seeing how Hoosier students learn and educators teach gives me an insider’s look at how our schools are operating and how policies impact the classroom.

STATEHOUSE (March 21, 2017) – State Reps. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) and Greg Steuerwald (R-Avon) recognized the We the People team from Plainfield High School on Tuesday in the House Chamber for their second place win at the Indiana state finals.

STATEHOUSE (March 15, 2017) — State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) visited Tindley Renaissance Academy in Indianapolis on Wednesday, where he observed elementary classrooms and discussed legislation that would replace Indiana’s statewide assessment, ISTEP.

The General Assembly recently passed the halfway point in the 2017 legislative session. The House of Representatives passed 164 bills that are now being considered by the Senate, while the House is considering 199 Senate bills. I want to keep our community updated on some of the bills making their way through the legislative process.

Ensuring students have access to an education that best suits their needs is extremely important to me. I have been working toward this goal throughout most of my time serving as your state representative, and I have been especially diligent in the last few years as the chair of the House Committee on Education. 

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 23, 2017) — State Rep. Bob Behning’s (R-Indianapolis) legislation aiming to build a stronger math and science foundation in elementary students passed out of the Indiana House of Representatives Thursday with a vote of 88-1.

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 20, 2017) — Legislation authored by State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) that would replace ISTEP passed out of the House of Representatives Monday with a vote of 67-31.

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 16, 2017) —State Rep. Bob Behning’s (R-Indianapolis) legislation that would establish a competency-based education pilot program advanced out of the House of Representatives today with a vote of 68-21.

During my entire tenure as a state representative, education has always been a top priority for House Republicans. Through our efforts, we have made great strides, especially with our college- and career-ready standards. Unfortunately, while Indiana is experiencing success in several areas, our country as a whole falls behind top-performing countries in education.

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 9, 2017) —Legislation that would replace ISTEP advanced out of the House Committee on Education today, said bill author State Rep. Bob Behning’s (R-Indianapolis).

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 7, 2017) —State Rep. Bob Behning’s (R-Indianapolis) legislation to expand the On My Way Pre-K pilot program passed out of the Indiana House of Representatives today with a vote of 61-34.

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 2, 2017) — The House Committee on Education is set to hear State Rep. Bob Behning’s (R-Indianapolis) legislation that would replace Indiana’s ISTEP test with a new assessment system on Tuesday, Feb. 7.

Research shows that children living in low-income households come to school up to 18 months developmentally behind their peers. A high-quality early education program is one of the most effective ways to close the achievement gap that low-income, at-risk children often experience when they enter kindergarten. 

STATEHOUSE (Jan. 31, 2017) — The House Committee on Education approved State Rep. Bob Behning’s (R-Indianapolis) legislation to expand the On My Way Pre-K pilot program today with a vote of 9-4.

Last year, the General Assembly created a 23-member panel, comprised mostly of educators, to take a serious look at Indiana’s current statewide assessment: ISTEP. The panel met multiple times throughout the summer and fall to study and discuss potential replacement tests.

STATEHOUSE (Jan. 26, 2017) — The House Committee on Education is set to hear State Rep. Bob Behning’s (R-Indianapolis) legislation that would expand the current pre-K pilot program from five counties to 10 on Tuesday, Jan. 31.

STATEHOUSE (Jan. 18, 2017)—State Reps. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) and Dave Frizzell (R-Indianapolis) will host a town hall meeting on Saturday to share information about the 2017 legislative session. 

After the start of the New Year, the General Assembly began meeting to consider legislation to keep Indiana moving forward. Recently, I joined House Republicans to announce our legislative priorities.

STATEHOUSE (Jan. 10, 2017) — State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) filed legislation today that would expand the current pre-K pilot program from five counties to 10.

STATEHOUSE (Dec. 8, 2016) — The deadline to apply for the Next Generation Teacher Scholarship, paying $7,500 per year for students pursuing a career in education, is Dec. 31, according to State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis). 

STATEHOUSE (Nov. 22, 2016) — State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) joined fellow legislators at the Statehouse today for the Indiana General Assembly’s Organization Day. 

STATEHOUSE (Oct. 17, 2016) — State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) was recently selected to serve as co-chair of the Education Standing Committee for the National Conference of State Legislatures. 

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 25, 2016) — Hendricks County and 17 local communities received more than $7.9 million in state matching grants this week to improve roads and bridges, according to State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis).

For as long as I have been a state representative, education has been a top priority for House Republicans. Through our efforts, we have made great strides. As the chair of the House Committee on Education, I am constantly working to find new and innovative ways to strengthen Indiana’s education system.

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 9, 2016) — A closer look at how top-performing countries prepare students to compete in today’s global economy provides valuable insight for U.S. schools, according to a new study by the National Council of State Legislatures.

In his few years as superintendent of Indianapolis Public Schools, Dr. Lewis Ferebee, together with his team, has made a significant difference in the performance and perception of one of our state’s largest school districts. 

STATEHOUSE (May 10, 2016)—State Reps. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) and Bill Fine (R-Munster) participated in the “Take a Legislator to School” pilot program at Klondike Elementary School in West Lafayette. 

Last week, the Indiana General Assembly adjourned Sine Die, meaning we have completed our business for the 2016 legislative session. Supporting educators and schools was one of the top priorities for House Republicans. Several issues were addressed, including a fix for last year’s ISTEP scores, the test’s future and improving teacher recruitment and retention. As the chair of the House Committee on Education, it was an extremely busy session for me as I worked to address the concerns that students, parents and educators have expressed. 

Planning for college is often a daunting task. Thankfully, Hoosiers have access to several tools to help them prepare for future education plans. Learn More Indiana is a program provided by the Commission of Higher Education that offers a variety of helpful tips and free resources for K-12 students, current college students and returning students, including the Indiana College Costs Estimator. The Commission for Higher Education also sponsors contests and grant opportunities during each of its three annual Learn More Indiana campaigns throughout the year. I encourage all students and parents to look into these resources when applying or returning to school, by visiting www.learnmoreindiana.org.

STATEHOUSE (March 3, 2016) —The House of Representatives unanimously supported legislation sponsored by State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) requiring coaches to complete a safety education course to better prevent and identify head injuries in student athletes.  

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 29, 2016) — State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) recently welcomed the following student pages to the Statehouse:

• Kendall Harting, from Plainfield, attends Plainfield High School; and
• Cheyenne Mason, from Plainfield, attends Plainfield High School.

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 25, 2016) – State Sen. Jim Merritt (R-Indianapolis) and Rep. Robert Behning (R-Indianapolis) offered an amendment to Senate Bill 334 to further protect Indiana’s children. The House Committee on Education unanimously adopted Merritt and Behning’s amendment and the bill passed committee 8-4. 

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 23, 2016) —The Indiana Senate passed legislation by a vote of 38-10 that would repeal ISTEP in 2017.  

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 22, 2016) — The House of Representatives voted 90-4 in support of legislation sponsored by State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) that would create the Out of School Time Learning Advisory Board. 

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 16, 2016) — State Rep. Bob Behning’s (R-Indianapolis) bill that would help attract educators to the teaching profession is scheduled to be heard on Wednesday in the Senate Committee on Pensions and Labor. 

We are now at the halfway point of session, and bills have switched chambers. The House of Representatives sent 116 bills to the Senate, and the Senate sent over 151 bills. At this point in time, four of my bills are being considered by the Senate, and one has already been signed into law. In addition to the legislation I authored, the House supported legislation that would benefit Hoosier veterans and service men and women.

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 9, 2016) — State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) recently welcomed the following student page to the Statehouse:

• Sun Par, from Indianapolis, attends Perry Meridian High School.

INDIANAPOLIS (Feb. 3, 2016) —The Indiana House of Representatives today voted 57-42 in support of State Rep. Bob Behning’s (R-Indianapolis) bill that would help attract educators to the teaching profession.

INDIANAPOLIS (Feb. 2, 2016) —The Indiana House of Representatives today passed legislation by a vote of 86-11 that will address the future of ISTEP testing.  

With session in full swing, House Republicans are fully committed to leading Indiana forward. We are focused on the needs of Hoosiers, particularly education, transportation infrastructure and curbing illegal drugs. All three of these issues are top priorities this session. They are integral to House Republicans’ ongoing work to ensure that Indiana is the best place to work, live and raise a family. 

INDIANAPOLIS (Jan 28, 2016) —The House Committee on Ways and Means today passed legislation by a vote of 13-9, that will help attract educators to the teaching profession.  

INDIANAPOLIS (Jan 21, 2016) — Gov. Mike Pence signed into law two bills today ensuring teachers and schools will not be punished for the expected drop in 2015 ISTEP scores.

INDIANAPOLIS (Jan. 19, 2016) – State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) paired his sneakers with his suit today at the Statehouse to help raise cancer awareness.

With session in full swing, education has become my main priority. I am personally committed to constantly improving our system for students, teachers and families. I cannot stress enough the amount of time that House Republicans have dedicated toward enacting policies that improve teacher recruitment and retention. This remains a very important, ongoing task. By the end of session, I hope to have legislation passed that attracts the best and brightest to the education profession and encourages them to remain in Hoosier classrooms. 

INDIANAPOLIS (Jan. 12, 2016) – State Rep. Bob Behning's (R-Indianapolis) bill decoupling teacher bonuses from the 2015 ISTEP scores passed out of the House of Representatives today by a vote of 95-1.

 INDIANAPOLIS (Oct. 28, 2015) – State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) announced today that Hoosier students scored well above the national average on the National Assessment of Education Progress (NAEP). 

STATEHOUSE — This week, legislation sponsored by State Representative Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis), which created a Dual Language Immersion Pilot Program, was ceremonially signed into law by the governor. Since this law went into effect, five schools have received grants to begin their own programs.

The Indiana Department of Child Services is partnering with WorkOne Indy to find qualified candidates to fill Family Case Manager positions. Requirements for the job include a bachelor's degree and at least 15 semester hours (21 quarter hours) in child development, criminology, criminal justice, education, health care, home economics, psychology, guidance and counseling, social work or sociology. 

STATEHOUSE — Legislation authored by State Representative Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) to allow Hoosier educators to develop and implement innovative approaches to meet the educational needs of their students was ceremonially signed into law by the governor on May 28.