(INDIANAPOLIS) – The Indiana State Board of Education (Board) met today in the first business meeting of the calendar year. The Board approved new leadership, electing BJ Watts as chair, Katie Mote as vice chair, and Gordon Hendry as secretary.
“Our responsibility as a Board is to do what is best for Indiana’s students, and that is a charge I take seriously,” said newly elected Board chair BJ Watts, who is executive director of Evansville Vanderburgh School Corporation’s OptIN program. “I am honored to have the confidence of my colleagues and look forward to the challenges ahead.”
The Board also welcomed newly appointed member Greg Gastineau to his first meeting. Gastineau will complete the term begun by Dr. Vince Bertram, who resigned at the end of 2018. Board members approved a resolution honoring Dr. Vince Bertram for his service to the Board and lifelong dedication to Indiana’s students.
The Board voted unanimously to approve teacher preparation programs at Ball State University and Trine University.
Based on a joint recommendation from Board staff, Indiana Department of Education (DOE), and Indiana Department of Workforce Development, the Board approved the use of Naviance and the Indiana Career Information System as alternative college and career planning tools.
Board members voted to initiate rulemaking related to the proposed social, emotional, and behavioral health plan drafted by DOE. Amendments to DOE 2019-2020 course titles and descriptions were approved.
The next State Board of Education Business Meeting will take place on Wednesday, February 6, 2019, at the Indiana Government Center South.
