Redefining Diversity in Education: A New Index for Measuring Cultural Diversity in Schools by Examining a Decade of Change in Central Indiana Schools

Abstract This study examined cultural diversity index scores, a composite measure of student diversity incorporating race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, special education, multilingual learner status, and gender. Using data from 470 schools in Central Indiana from 2010 to 2020, the analysis showed increased diversity across all school types, with traditional public schools being the most diverse. County-level variations highlighted the influence of school choice policies on regional diversity trends. These findings emphasize the evolving nature of cultural diversity in schools and its importance for shaping educational policies and practices.