INDIANA

Indiana's major success since 2002 includes improvements in data reporting and shifting its focus on intervention from remediation to acceleration.

In 2006, the state began reporting the National Governors Association's cohort graduation and incorporated it into its accountability system.  Another element of the state's enhanced data reporting includes using leading indicators and reporting the number of students who are off track in terms of credits earned at the end of ninth grade (HB 1347). 

Indiana's HB 1347 also established the Fast Track to College program, targeting dropouts who are at least 19 years of age and not in school, and putting them on the path to earn a diploma while earning credits for a degree. Although postsecondary institutions implementing a Fast Track To College program are eligible to draw down "average daily attendance" from local districts, this funding structure has served as a disincentive for school district participation, and the widespread use of dual enrollment courses as a viable programmatic feature for Indiana's over-age, undercredited student population. 

Students in Indiana are entitled to a free public education until age 22.  Indiana compulsory attendance laws encourage students to remain in school until age 18.