With the newly elected Indiana General Assembly convening this January, Superintendent Jeff Swensson would like to push for legislation allowing local control of high-performing school districts. “Our premise is that if you are a high performing school or school system, the various state restrictions – for example the idea that every senior must go to school every 180 days – to me don’t make sense,” Swensson said.

In order to push for this new legislation, school district officials are going to talk to legislators and organize with community members in an attempt to drive for higher standards. While Indiana’s Education Roundtable made recommendations last month for education reform in general, Swensson is curious as to where the change will affect the school district.

Swensson’s plan for local control seems to initially affect seniors at CHS. Although many seniors have more credits than they need to graduate, state law mandates attendance for 180 days.

“Why wouldn’t we want the habits of minds that are key to college success? There’s something about that affinity of senior year,” Swensson said.

Student Body President Jeremy Weprich likes the proposed plan since he attributes the statewide control of yearly attendance in altering the school calendar this year.

“Because I have experienced, firsthand, the effects of the regulations, I hope for freedom within our local region,” Weprich said.

In addition, the school district recently earned the Carmel Chamber of Commerce green award. Carmel Clay Schools has been engaging in green activities for 15 years, according to Swensson.

Weprich said, “While the award is fitting for the work Carmel schools have done, they must continue to extend the depth and extent of their green endeavors.” By Steven Chen <[email protected]>