The state schools chief wants Indiana students in class for a full 180 days each school year.

State Superintendent Tony Bennett says that starting next school year, the Department of Education will require districts to make up a day of school for each day canceled because of weather. Currently, schools can apply for waivers to avoid making up all missed time.

Bennett also says half days will no longer count toward instructional time.

When Bennett led a southern Indiana school district, he applied for waivers so that it wouldn't have to make up all the days missed.

But Bennett says now that he's the state superintendent, he is looking out for the best interest of all students in Indiana. He says students need extra time in class to succeed in the 21st century.