INSCA remains actively engaged in advocating for the inclusion of school counselors in Indiana’s Teacher Appreciation Grant (TAG). Over the past several months, Jan Desmarais-Morse, members of the INSCA Advocacy Committee, and our lobbyist, Scott Carr, have met with key state leaders to elevate this issue. These conversations have included discussions with Indiana Secretary of Education Katie Jenner and State Representative Robert Behning, among others, to ensure that policymakers understand the critical role school counselors play in supporting student achievement and overall school success.

In the coming months, we will continue advancing this conversation by engaging additional education partners, including the Indiana Association of Public School Superintendents (IAPSS) and the Indiana Association of School Principals (IASP). Building broad support among education leaders is an essential part of ensuring school counselors are recognized alongside other educators in funding initiatives like TAG.

We know this work is a long game. Demonstrating the direct connection between school counseling programs and student achievement requires consistent advocacy, clear communication, and sustained visibility at the Statehouse. INSCA is committed to keeping this issue at the forefront and continuing to champion equitable recognition for school counselors.

Please watch for a Legislative Update webinar in late spring featuring Scott Carr when he will provide a brief overview of the history of the Teacher Appreciation Grant and its intersection with school counseling, along with an update on strategies currently under consideration as we move forward.