Governor Pence signing SEA 62. (Photo provided)

Governor Mike Pence issued the following statement after he signed into law SEA 62, the bill which allows the Indiana Department of Education to shorten this year’s ISTEP test, which would have been more than 12 hours for third graders. The bill passed unanimously in both houses.

“Hoosier students, teachers and parents can breathe easier now that this year’s ISTEP test will be significantly shortened. I commend the Indiana General Assembly for their unanimous support of this measure, and applaud the efforts of House Speaker Brian Bosma and Senate President Pro Tempore David Long in moving this legislation in time to impact this year’s ISTEP test. I also am grateful for the collaboration between our administration, the Superintendent and the Department of Education to achieve this reform. Our success in shortening the ISTEP test should reassure Hoosiers that we can accomplish much for our kids, teachers, and schools when we work together.”