In this episode, we sit down with Greg Harrell to break down Indiana’s sweeping new graduation requirements and the growing importance of work-based learning for high school students.

Highlights:

Indiana’s graduation overhaul: Why the class of 2029 will experience a completely reimagined high school journey

The motivation behind change—connecting school to real-world outcomes, addressing chronic absenteeism, and closing the gap between college aspirations and actual enrollment

Introduction of “readiness seals,” allowing students to customize graduation requirements for enrollment, employment, or enlistment

How schools are adapting quickly to new requirements and the flexibility provided by the stackable, permeable nature of the seals

The critical role of early and ongoing career guidance, starting as early as middle school

What high-quality work-based learning really looks like: internships, apprenticeships, school-based enterprises, and even authentic workplace simulations

Equity in opportunity—approaches to ensuring all Indiana students, including those in rural and under-resourced communities, can access meaningful experiences

Building and sustaining employer and industry partnerships, and the growing role of intermediary organizations

Practical supports for schools: training plan templates, resources from the Department of Education and partner organizations, and the importance of not reinventing the wheel

Looking ahead: Greg Harrell’s vision for an Indiana where students graduate with industry-valued credentials and genuine readiness for whatever comes next

Key Takeaway:
This episode underscores Indiana’s bold steps to connect classroom learning with practical, real-world experiences—giving every student the tools, options, and confidence to thrive after high school, regardless of their chosen path.

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For more information about school choice and your school choice options, visit our website at https://www.i4qed.org