ILI WILL LEAD ON THE FOLLOWING THREE ISSUES

Increase “Complexity Index” and English Language Learner (ELL) Funding Levels: Throughout Indiana, school districts throughout the state are enrolling more indigent and immigrant Latino students requiring additional academic support from cash-strapped schools and underprepared staff. Increasing funding will improve academic outcomes by implementing proven-effective and culturally appropriate strategies for Latino learners.

Offer In-State Tuition for All Undocumented Postsecondary Students: Indiana is 1 of 3 states with enacted legislation specifically prohibiting offering in-state tuition rates and state financial aid to undocumented students, not only making college unaffordable for hundreds of students but also dampening the collective college-graduation aspirations that the Latino community has for its children States have the discretion to extend in-state tuition rates to undocumented students attending public colleges. It is time for the General Assembly to make college more affordable for all immigrant students graduating from Indiana high schools.

Increase 21st Century Scholars Participation: Financial constraints preclude more Latino students from entering and completing postsecondary education programs The generous 21st Century Scholars program supports indigent students through their four years in college However, the parents or guardians of qualified future-college students must register for the scholarship while the students are in 7th or 8th grade. As the program’s Latino-student enrollment rate is disproportionally low, ILI strongly recommends that state officials publish data on Latino enrollment, set high enrollment goals, and hold accountable schools for ensuring all eligible low-income students register. ILI proposes that eligible seventh and eighth grade students participating in the free and reduced lunch program be automatically enrolled in the 21st Century Scholars program. Additionally, the state and school districts should assist Latino high school students in maintaining their 21st Century Scholars program eligibility through high school.