Indiana

Results for the state’s new ILEARN test are now public, and reveal just how much lower achievement rates on the test look compared to previous iterations of the state’s standardized exam. According to state data, less than half of all students reached proficiency in English Language Arts (ELA) and math, with proficiency rates of 47.9 and 47.8 percent respectively. 

An interim public health committee met for the first time to discuss the high cost of healthcare in the state.

The state will receive $21 million over the next three years to prevent drug overdose deaths.

The national business group Advanced Energy Economy is reporting a 4 percent growth in Indiana jobs last year. That means more Hoosiers than ever are working in renewable energy and energy efficiency.

Most of the jobs are located in Marion County and the fastest growing sector was in advanced vehicles. It saw 18 percent more jobs last year than the year before.

The state has approved a new round of school safety grant funding for Indiana schools. The money will go to 429 schools through the state’s Secured School Safety Grant program. Last year 388 schools received funding through the program.