STATEHOUSE (Feb. 12, 2021) – The Indiana House of Representatives recently advanced legislation establishing the Student Learning Recovery Grant Program to help students experiencing learning loss due to the pandemic, according to State Rep. Zach Payne (R-Charlestown).
According to Payne, students transitioning back and forth between e-learning and classroom learning are likely to experience some form of learning loss. The proposal would create a $150 million grant program providing individuals or organizations resources to help students who have fallen behind in class, scored below academic standards or are at risk of falling behind.
"Students, educators and families faced many unprecedented changes over the past year," Payne said. "One child falling behind is too many, and while our schools worked hard to adjust to remote learning, some kids were unable to keep up with their education. We recognize this and want to ensure they have the resources needed to catch up."
Payne said many students experience some form of learning loss after summer break, but most are typically able to relearn forgotten lessons quickly. However, a recent study completed by Stanford's Center for Research on Education Outcomes, shows the average Indiana student lost 129 days of reading knowledge and 209 days of math knowledge as a result of COVID-19 disruptions.
The Indiana Department of Education, along with the State Board of Education would determine program criteria for the grants. Payne said applying organizations, which could include local schools, colleges or universities, community or philanthropic organizations, and prospective, current and retired educators, would be required to submit a plan detailing the programs that would supplement a student's regular coursework. The DOE would be responsible for overseeing the grant program.
The legislation now moves to the Senate for further consideration. Visit iga.in.gov for more information on House Bill 1008.
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State Rep. Zach Payne (R-Charlestown) represents House District 66, which includes
all of Scott County, most of Jefferson County and northeastern Clark County.
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