In this episode, Sarah welcomes Greg Harrell, the newest addition to the IQE/MSO team, for his podcast debut. Greg shares his background in public service, education, and government, and provides an in-depth look at the recently released 2025 IREAD scores—Indiana’s critical assessment for third-grade literacy. Together, they discuss the state’s post-pandemic progress, key education policy priorities, and the strong results from Indiana’s non-public schools.
Key Takeaways:

Meet Greg Harrell: Greg’s roots in southern Indiana, his career path from state government to education advocacy, and his passion for policy and school choice.

What is IREAD?

Overview of Indiana’s IREAD test for third graders: Origins, purpose, and why it matters.

The evolution of the assessment since its 2013 implementation.

The 2025 IREAD Results:

Statewide increase: Over 87% of third graders passed, hitting pre-pandemic levels.

Record gains: Largest year-over-year improvement since the test’s creation, with about 6,000 more students passing compared to last year.

Non-public schools shine: 96% proficiency rate for Indiana’s private schools.

Factors Driving Improvement:

$170 million invested since 2022 in literacy initiatives (public and philanthropic funding, including from Lilly Endowment).

Earlier identification and support: Second graders now take IREAD, helping educators identify and assist struggling students sooner.

Looking Forward:

The Department of Education’s ambitious goal: 95% of third graders passing IREAD by 2027.

Ongoing policy priorities: Defending school choice, reducing unnecessary regulation, and tweaking programs for better outcomes in the 2026 legislative session.

Why School Choice Matters:

Greg’s personal perspective on the evolution and importance of educational choice in Indiana.

The alignment between K-12 and higher education in empowering families and students with options.

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For more information about school choice and the Indiana Choice Scholarship Program, visit our website at https://www.i4qed.org