Sen. Walker Shares Update
| Sen. Walker Shares Update Thanks to the hard work and dedication of our Hoosier teachers, Indiana saw an impressive improvement in reading scores on the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP). Our state’s scores improved from 19th to 6th in the nation among fourth graders and from 17th to 6th among eighth graders. This improvement is due in large part to our state’s teachers who are working hard to help our students get back on track. I would also like to thank Dr. Katie Jenner, Indiana’s Secretary of Education, for her leadership in this effort. In addition to funding increases for programs that promote literacy, in recent years, Senate Republicans have supported legislation that required schools to align curriculum to the Science of Reading and required teacher preparation programs to train new teachers in the Science of Reading. In 2024, our caucus’s top priority was Senate Enrolled Act 1, which reemphasized the importance of Science of Reading, improved early identification and intervention for students struggling to read and, as a last resort, limited schools’ ability to promote students who can’t read by the end of third grade. As we all know, the ability to read is foundational to academic success, and I am very pleased to see our students are making strong improvements. |
| Fishers Partnership to Enhance Economic Growth The City of Fishers has partnered with Plug and Play Indiana and Launch Fishers to support startup businesses. This collaboration aims to connect entrepreneurs with established corporations, investors and vital resources, to foster innovation, accelerate growth and build stronger businesses. This partnership marks an exciting opportunity for Fishers, solidifying its reputation as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship while driving the economic development for the local community. |
| Senate Celebrates the Children’s Museum’s 100th Anniversary This week, House Concurrent Resolution 14, which congratulates the Children’s Museum on its 100th anniversary, passed in the Senate. Thank you for 100 years of education, history and influence. The museum continues to serve many visitors by creating an atmosphere of wonder like no other. |
| Celebrating Black History Month in Indianapolis February honors Black History Month, and the City of Indianapolis is putting on a variety of events to celebrate. Residents can celebrate Black History Month by dining at several Black-owned restaurants in the city, attending museums and enjoying musical performances dedicated to celebrating Black History. State Sen. Kyle Walker represents District 31 which includes portions of Hamilton and Marion counties. |