July 1 is fast approaching. With it comes new legislation that passed during the legislative session. As always, education was impacted.

21st Century Scholars Program

Less than 50% of eligible students enrolled in the program that covers tuition for two-year or four-year in-state college tuition completed the application. Due to House Bill 1449, eligible students will automatically be enrolled.

Sex Education 

House Bill 1608 bans the teaching of sex education from preschool through third grade. Sex education was not previously taught in these grades. 

School Library Materials

House Bill 1447 requires schools to establish a process to add books to their library catalog and for parents and community members to request a book be removed. Additionally, if it is determined that a librarian added harmful materials to the library collection, the librarian could face jail time.

Student Aid

Senate Bill 167 requires high school seniors to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by April 15. Previously, this was optional.

Students Names

House Bill 1608 also requires that schools notify parents in writing within five business days if their child requests to be called by a different name or pronoun. This law does not impact the school counselor’s ability to keep information covered under law private.

Contact Indy Kids Winning reporter Educator Barnes at 317-721-2181 or shawntab@indyrecorder.com. Follow her on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, & TikTok @educatorbarnes. 

Educator Barnes’ work is supported through a partnership between Indy Kids Winning and the Indianapolis Recorder. Visit indykidswinning.com to learn more.