Inside LPHS and the Indiana Diploma Changes

In this episode of Inside La Porte Schools, Superintendent Sandra Wood welcomes Principal Scott Upp from La Porte High School and Director of Career and Technical Education Jen Goss to discuss Indiana's new high school diploma requirements. The conversation explores how these changes will create more personalized educational paths for students through three new diploma seals: Enrollment (college-bound), Employment (workforce-ready), and Enlistment (military preparation). The discussion covers La Porte High School's extensive preparations for these changes, including their CTE pathways, 75+ dual credit opportunities, and innovative work-based learning programs that will give La Porte students advantages in whatever path they choose after graduation.Chapters:Introduction (0:00)Welcome to Inside La Porte SchoolsIntroduction of guests: Scott Upp and Jen GossOverview of Diploma Changes (2:15)Indiana's shift from Core 40 to new diploma structureThe concept of "Rethinking High School"Focus on personalization and flexibilityKey Curriculum Changes (5:30)New requirements (computer course, personal finance)Preparing for College and Careers (PCC) coursePathway options and exploration opportunitiesImplementation Timeline (10:45)When changes take effect (Class of 2029)Transition plans for current studentsFour-year planning processUnderstanding the Three Diploma Seals (14:00)Enrollment Seal (college-bound)Employment Seal (workforce-ready)Enlistment Seal (military preparation)La Porte's Dual Credit Opportunities (19:30)75+ dual credit optionsIndiana College Corps programPlans for "Slicer University"Career and Technical Education Pathways (23:45)Overview of 20+ pathway optionsPrinciples, Concentrator A, and Concentrator B coursesIndustry credentials and work-based learningWork-Based Learning Requirements (29:15)150 hours for Employment Seal650 hours for Employment Honors PlusHow summer jobs count toward requirementsThe Enlistment Seal Details (32:30)ASVAB requirementsCriminal justice pathwayLeadership and attendance componentsLa Porte's Readiness for Changes (35:15)Block scheduling advantagesCTE program expansionResources for parents and studentsConclusion and Resources (39:00)Where to find more informationOngoing updates as state requirements evolveFinal thoughts