Hamilton Southeastern (HSE) Schools appear poised to participate in the revised Teacher Appreciation Grant (TAG) program following significant changes enacted by the State of Indiana. Deputy Superintendent Matt Kegley outlined proposed updates to the district’s written policy Wednesday night to allow HSE to take part in the revamped program.

Previously, teachers rated “effective” or “highly effective” on their annual performance evaluations were eligible for TAG payments, meaning a large share of HSE educators typically qualified. Under new state rules, the size of each grant increases substantially—ranging from $3,500 to $7,500—but no more than 20% of a district’s teaching staff may receive an award. For HSE, Kegley said that caps eligibility at about 236 teachers.

HSE has filed the required application with the State Board of Education to join the program. Teachers wishing to be considered must complete an internal application developed by the district administration by January 7. Administrators will review submissions, and once the state informs HSE how much money has been allocated locally, the district expects to announce recipients and award amounts in early 2026.

Kegley said applications from teachers in special education, English as a new language, and those recognized as Teachers of the Year will receive priority consideration, though all eligible teacher applications will be reviewed.

The Indiana State Teachers Association (ISTA) opposed the state’s TAG changes, and the Hamilton Southeastern Education Association (HSEA) said its members were “nearly unanimous” in advising against HSE participating in the new program.

Participation in TAG is optional for school districts. Edinburgh Schools, for example, has chosen not to participate this year.

Kegley noted that changes of this nature would typically be reviewed by the board’s Policy Committee. However, with the board set to reorganize officers and committee assignments in early 2026, no Policy Committee meeting is scheduled for January. Board members with questions or concerns were asked to contact Kegley prior to a final vote on the TAG policy change at the January board meeting.