INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — A top Republican Indiana legislator on education policy has apologized for comments suggesting Black students don’t perform better academically because they lack “respect for learning.”
House Education Committee Chairman Bob Behning of Indianapolis made the remark last week while pointing out that just 30 out of 1,000 Black students in the Indianapolis Public Schools system passed both the English and math portions of the state’s ILEARN standardized exam last year.
He said many factors could be involved, saying “poverty impacts that for sure, having a respect for learning." Behning apologized Monday in a statement to The Indianapolis Star. A leader of the Indianapolis Urban League called the remark “offensive.”
Latest Stories
-
Carmel residents to share housing concerns at virtual community roundtables
Carmel residents will have the chance to discuss their concerns about housing Thursday during two virtual community roundtable discussions.
Governor Braun presents Coach Cignetti with 2026 Sachem Award
Governor Mike Braun on Wednesday honored Coach Curt Cignetti with the 2026 Sachem Award and every member of the Indiana Hoosiers Football team with the Sagamore of the Wabash.
Former Indy Mayor Greg Ballard announces run for Indiana Secretary of State
Former Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard is entering the race for Indiana Secretary of State, and he's running as an independent
Big Ten women's basketball tournament kicks off stretch of basketball in Indy
The Big Ten women’s basketball tournament tips off Wednesday at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse, launching a busy time for basketball in the Circle City.
