Education Leader Discusses How the Impacts of COVID-19 on Hoosier Children
Source: Sebastian Brock Loeven / Getty
STATEWIDE–March 11th marks 5 years since the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic. Some say five years later kids are still not alright. Dr. Katie Jenner, who leads the Indiana Dept. of Education says that “we have to stop blaming the pandemic, acknowledging where we are today and moving forward from here.”
Dr. Jenner explained that they are constantly studying the data to see how students affected by the pandemic are doing today. Compared to 5 years ago, nationally Indiana jumped to #6th in the in reading. Up in 4th and 8th grade. Math state data is showing increases at all grade levels. The national data shows that Indiana ranks #9 for 4th grade math and 13th for 8th grade math, moving the needle in a positive direction.
Dr. Jenner says the biggest impact educators are seeing on student’s mental health today? Cell phones. Even more so than the pandemic impact.What would she do differently if there was a next time? “We need to do everything we can to keep kids learning in person when they can. Whether that’s for Student learning or social interaction, for some of our students it’s a wellness check, and a warm breakfast and lunch.”
More positive news in 2025, Indiana is number one in the nation when it comes to leaving high school with college credits. Dr. Jenner says “It’s truly because of our 12k and University system working together. A lot of good things happening, but she say “It’s not the time to take our foot off the gas. All hands in to keep pushing to make it the best we can for Indiana students.”