Jennifer McCormick, the GOP candidate for state superintendent of public instruction, released a detailed plan Wednesday on how she would manage education and attempt to influence state policy if she ousts incumbent Glenda Ritz in November.

The contracts, which totaled $573,000, weren't put up for a competitive process.

It's an issue the Legislature has been studying all summer, and a topic that's been all over the news.

Monday's meeting focused on establishing goals for graduation rates and student achievement.

Officials say the funds are necessary to expand state-funded pre-k for all kids, increase tuition support for all schools and bump up funding for small, rural schools.

The state accuses CTB, now Data Recognition Corporation, of not living up to contractual duties after the company substantially delayed releasing 2015 ISTEP+ scores.

The state spent $131.5 million in scholarships this year, which is $18 million more than last school year.

Why are eligible Hoosier kids missing out on free meals?

The program provides free, nutritious meals to children in low-income areas in Indiana during the summer months.

The State Superintendent says it's among the Department of Education's top policy priorities heading into the next legislative session.