Indiana
In effort to erase DEI, Indiana cuts school and college programs. Here’s what got targeted
In a sweeping policy shift, Indiana state agencies have ended funding for multiple education initiatives and scrubbed dozens of materials that referenced diversity, equity, or inclusion — part of a directive from Gov. Mike Braun to eliminate what his administration calls divisive ideology. The changes affect both K-12 schools and public universities, with impacts on students, teachers, and college outreach efforts.
The executive order, issued earlier this year, required agencies to eliminate all initiatives labeled “diversity, equity, and inclusion,” or DEI, which the administration described as incompatible with “merit, excellence, and innovation.” State reports show that 70 DEI-related trainings, instructional efforts, or programs have been removed so far.
“Indiana has replaced the divisive, politically charged DEI ideology with Merit, Excellence, and Innovation: a level playing field where every single Hoosier has the chance to get ahead with hard work,” Braun said in a statement.
The executive order touched nearly every corner of the state’s education system. In K-12 schools, the Indiana Department of Education conducted a wide-ranging audit to remove references to equity and inclusion from state academic standards, instructional materials, grant applications and websites. In higher education, a grant program overseen by the Indiana Commission for Higher Education that targeted first-generation students, students of color and others from underrepresented backgrounds was not renewed.
The Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired and the Indiana School for the Deaf — which are both state run — were required to strip DEI-related language from their handbooks and policy documents.
Programs changed, phased out
Among the most visible cuts is the Padres Estrellas initiative, which embedded Spanish-speaking outreach workers in schools and neighborhoods to help Latino families enroll in the state’s 21st Century Scholars program — a college scholarship for low-income students. The Commission for Higher Education ended the program last month.
In 2023, CHE Commissioner Chris Lowery described the state’s low college-going rate for Hispanic and other students of color as “unacceptable” and “an emergency.”
The programs and materials now being phased out are detailed in a 444-page document released by Braun’s office. It includes:
Higher education:
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A STEM teacher recruitment grant used to fund a Black teacher residency program to support schools with teacher shortages in underserved areas will expire in August and will not be renewed. “Instead, that funding may now be directed to an organization that will support STEM teachers based on their merit and not their race,” according to an executive summary of statewide changes. -
The College Success Program that funded coaches to support “first-generation students of color” at Purdue Northwest, Indiana State University and Valparaiso University will not continue into 2026. -
The Career Coaching Grant, “tailored to support minority and low-income students” in considering careers,” will end this year. The Department of Education will then take it over “to ensure grants fund programs in a manner consistent” with Braun’s anti-DEI order. -
The state’s College Equity Reports on student preparedness and success by race and ethnicity, socioeconomic status and gender were removed from the CHE website.
K-12 education:
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Videos on the state online Learning Lab — which are meant for families, teachers and administrators — were removed if they included phrases like “to support diverse learners in inclusive classrooms” or referenced “the essential role of equity and inclusion in the new science standards.” Additional removals are ongoing, according to the report. -
Academic standards tied to ethnic studies, certain social studies topics and employability skills are undergoing formal review to eliminate language deemed inconsistent with the executive order. -
A state-issued guide for applying to the High Ability Program grant was revised to remove references to “equity and access” and “underrepresented populations.” -
The state’s application for a federal charter school grant program will no longer include the phrase “diverse and equitable learning opportunities.”
An Indiana Department of Education spokesperson, in response to questions from WFYI, said the department will continue to “elevate the importance of improving outcomes for all K-12 students.”
“This means ensuring each student has access to supports based on their unique learning needs,” Courtney Bearsch said in an email.
Advocates of these programs worry their removal disproportionately harms students already facing systemic barriers. In Marion County, for example, less than 56% of Hispanic students read at grade level by third grade — a key predictor of later academic achievement.
Mark Russell of the Indianapolis Urban League said Braun is now taking a stance that Indiana will “treat everybody the same regardless of their standing or circumstances.”
Russell worries these new policies, coupled with the Trump administration’s overhaul of the U.S. Education Department, creates an environment where students who would benefit from additional support, will be left behind.
“It cannot be denied that these steps that have been taken at both the federal and the state level are detrimental to the interest and well-being of at-risk students of all races, stripes, and creeds,” Russell said.
Redacting equity from classroom policy
The Department of Education’s purge of DEI references extended beyond K-12 standards, which outline what Indiana students are expected to learn. The department changed grant conditions and pressured national partners to remove DEI language from strategic plans if they wanted to keep working with the state.
A vendor that provides student assessments for the state, Smarter Balanced, removed a DEI page from its website at the department’s request, according to the report. In other cases, national accreditation bodies and technology organizations altered planning documents after being contacted by the department.
And even a letter from Secretary of Education Katie Jenner to local school leaders was flagged. A draft version of the Teacher of the Year nomination letter, circulated earlier this year, described an ideal candidate as someone who fosters “a school culture of equity and success.”
David Marcotte, executive director of the Indiana Urban Schools Association, said the principles behind DEI are long-standing practices of good teaching, such as understanding students’ backgrounds and helping all feel valued. He said educators will follow the state’s new rules.
“However, making sure all students feel valued and comfortable each day, regardless of background, will continue to be a goal,” Marcotte said. “It’s called good teaching.”
All of these changes come as Indiana schools are becoming more diverse. The number of students learning English in Indiana nearly doubled since 2012 to just more than 9%. In Marion County, English language learners make up nearly a quarter of all students at public schools.
Eric Weddle is WFYI’s education team editor. Contact Eric at eweddle@wfyi.org or follow him on X at @ericweddle.
There’s a small-town state park in Indiana with rugged sandstone ravines, deep canyons, ladders, steps, and tranquil scenes of Sugar Creek. Sounds like Turkey Run State Park in Marshall, doesn’t it? Well, it’s not. Less than 10 miles away, there is another park often overlooked by the one million visitors who come to west-central Indiana. Shades State Park in Waveland is a quieter and more remote version of the popular Turkey Run, so much so that it feels like a local secret.
But this low-key state park has a few hidden secrets that you can’t find anywhere else in the state. Find out what makes this one of the best state parks in Indiana to visit.
Why This Small-Town State Park Stands Out in Indiana
At over 3,000 acres, surprisingly, Shades is actually larger than Turkey Run, yet it’s often called the “less popular little brother.” And although they may have the same features, Shades State Park stands out in more than one way. For instance, this remote park offers rugged trails with dramatic views without the crowds. So, if you want to spend time without feeling rushed, this is the place for you.
Moreover, because it’s located in the rural town of Waveland, the park boasts some of the darkest skies in Indiana and hosts events throughout the year. Stargazers rejoice! You can spend dreamy nights here, looking up into the heavens, letting your imagination take you through the cosmos.
Additionally, there are unique geological formations, secluded canoe-only campsites, and incredible overlooks that make this park even that more special. And as the light filters into the less-traveled paths with canyon walls covered in moss, it looks otherworldly. In my opinion, and I am sure many Hoosiers will agree, Shades is arguably one of the most underrated hidden gems in Indiana.
What You’ll Experience at Shades State Park
Shades is known for its more rustic and less developed landscapes. Its rugged terrain makes it a fun playground to explore. Here, you’ll have access to Devil’s Backbone, a steep hike along a jagged ridge with vertical drops, with unique geological features, and it’s not for the faint of heart. It’s found on the three-mile Pine Hills Nature Preserve Trail. This is the kind of trek that you would do when you need a challenge.
The 6 Ravine Challenge trail is an adventure on its own, and one of the best hikes in Indiana. The name says it all; you’ll be hiking through six ravines on this trek. Along with the rugged and rocky terrain, come ready to climb ladders and steps to enter the narrow, carved-out canyon walls. It’s part of the fun on this hike, though, and standing inside these crevices carved out millions of years ago will leave you in awe.
Thanks to Sugar Creek, keep an eye out for the waterfalls in the area; some just slowly trickling over the rocks, but still worth the attention. And speaking of Sugar Creek, it’s another reason to visit the park. Shades has secluded campsites along the scenic water that are accessible only by canoe or kayak. Not only can you spend the night, but you can also paddle all the way to Turkey Run State Park on the creek.
Shades State Park might be the overlooked brother to Turkey Run, but this underrated state park in Indiana surely knows how to shine, in a quieter, more intimate way. That’s why locals love it so much, and you will, too.
Local Tips for Visiting
Even in peak season from April through October, Shades will be far less crowded than its “popular brother.” That said, spring is a great time to visit to see the wildflowers and flowing waters, and summer is the prime season for camping and canoeing. Of course, fall is when the park lights up with autumn colors, attracting leaf peepers galore. And the frosty season is when the park settles in. Avoid the crowds by visiting in winter, early morning, or on weekdays.
Come prepared to hike in less-developed, rugged terrain, with downed trees. Meaning, there will be rock scrambling, climbing, and you’ll find muddy and slippery sections, too. Your sneakers might not hold up here, so leave them behind. With all that there is to do and see inside Shades State Park, you’ll need more than just a day here. This means camping is the way to go! If you’re camping, be sure to bring your stargazing equipment to take advantage of the dark skies here.
The Shades campground is pretty simple with basic amenities and no electric or sewer hookups. There are just over 100 sites, 7 backcountry sites, and 10 water-access sites, perfect for those paddling on Sugar Creek.
What to Know Before You Go
Keep in mind that Shades State Park charges an entrance fee per vehicle, which varies based on residency. Bikers and hikers pay a small fee as well. If you plan on stargazing after 11 p.m, you’ll need to get a permit from the office. Visit the Shades State Park Clear Sky Chart to plan your visit.
If you come during the winter, the park has limited facilities, and some areas will have no water. So, unless you want to really rough it in the wilderness, I would skip camping here from November through April. The good news is, you might have the campsite to yourself. Before you visit, check the Shades State Park website for closures and updates.
It’s easy to see why Hoosiers like to keep this laid-back park their little secret. This is where they can come and fully immerse themselves in a peaceful, serene park with incredible views and natural wonders.
Plus, the nearby town of Waveland is a wonderful small town in Indiana to visit. Enjoy scenic rural drives to wide-open fields and nearby covered bridges. This is where slow travelers come to trade the crowds for peace.
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell says Bears need stadium site soon
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell told reporters at the NFL’s annual meeting that the Chicago Bears need resolution on a stadium site soon.
The saga of the Chicago Bears and their potential move to Indiana continues as Illinois lawmakers unveil amended legislation aimed at keeping the team in the state, Illinois Capital News reported.
Seemingly still a minor step in the right direction, the legislation is a prerequisite for the team to build a new domed stadium in suburban Arlington Heights. Here’s what happened in Illinois this week.
What does the amended bill mean for the Chicago Bears?
The Illinois House unveiled a new version of property tax legislation aimed at winning over lawmakers concerned about the move.
More specifically, the changes target worries about shifted property tax burdens to local residents and the team’s departure from Chicago’s Soldier Field, which still has nearly $500 in unpaid bonds.
While the original bill would allow the Bears or other “megaproject” developers to negotiate a payment in lieu of taxes, the amended version would contribute 50% of such payments to property tax relief. Of that amount, 60% would go to property tax rebates for homeowners residing in megaproject districts, while 40% would be deposited into the state’s existing property tax relief fund.
This incentive plan would end in five years, at which time lawmakers would revisit its effectiveness.
Will amended legislation pass in Illinois?
The legislation was discussed at length in the Illinois House Tuesday, but still has a far way to go before it makes its way to Gov. JB Pritzker’s desk.
Illinois Rep. Kam Buckner, D-Chicago, the lead House negotiator on the megaprojects bill, said he plans to file the amended legislation with the intention of it being heard in committee on Wednesday. If it passes there, the full House could vote on the measure this week.
But importantly, it still must be approved by the Illinois Senate, which returns to Springfield on April 28. Only then would it be sent to Pritzker.
Is the measure likely to pass in Illinois?
Buckner appeared optimistic about the changes, while Pritzker’s office said they’re still “reviewing the draft amendment.”
Illinois Rep. Will Guzzardi, D-Chicago, said the latest version is a step in the right direction, saying the “forthcoming amendment” addressed lawmakers’ concerns “in a really thoughtful way.”
What’s going on in Indiana?
Indiana Gov. Mike Braun signed a bill into law in February creating a northwest Indiana stadium authority that would be in charge of financing a new stadium for the Bears in Hammond.
As recently as April 16, Indiana lawmakers renegotiated the Indiana Toll Road lease to further appeal to the Chicago football team, according to the IndyStar. The new agreement would allow $700 million to be put toward infrastructure or transportation projects in seven Indiana counties near the proposed stadium site in exchange for more frequently increased toll prices on the Indiana Toll Road.
CONTRIBUTING: Kayla Dwyer, Indianapolis Star; Brenden Moore, Illinois Capital News
PLAINFIELD, Ind. (WISH) — Suspects fled a Plainfield bank after it was robbed Tuesday afternoon, police say.
Plainfield Police Department was called at 2:10 p.m. Tuesday to the robbery of a bank in progress at Chase Bank, 807 Southfield Drive. That’s southwest of the intersection of Quaker Boulevard and Stafford Road/East County Road 450 South in the Hendricks County town.
Deputy Chief Ryan Salisbury of the Plainfield Police Department said detectives were working on the case.
The police department posted on social media on Tuesday night that no one was hurt in the robbery, and the suspects, who were not in custody, fled prior to the arrival of first responders.
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