Our Stories
We’ve been focused on elevating the early literacy crisis here in Illinois and working with advocates in the Illinois Early Literacy Coalition to solve this problem in a collaborative way. That’s why I was struck by this New York Times article that dove into the current reading crisis. The report elevates the crisis to a national level, […]
It’s hard to think of a more immersive training than the hands-on, work-based learning that Illinois students receive in a Career and Technical Education (CTE) program. These courses preview what a future career might look like. Engaging and successful CTE programs rely on close partnerships with both employers and colleges. Local employers bring work-based learning […]
This year marks the fifth year we have advocated for increased school funding through the evidence-based funding formula. You’ve been there with us every step of the way, and our collective advocacy has made a difference – this year, nearly $1.5 billion more has flowed through the equitable formula than when the formula was first […]
Springfield is a busy place these days, with bills moving and deadlines approaching at a steady clip. Included in all the movement is the progress we’ve seen by supporting more equitable access to Dual Credit classes. I’m glad to say that the bill to boost equitable access to Dual Credit courses and support the educators […]
Creating a brighter future for us all includes ensuring our youth court system is just and fair to everyone involved. And ensuring that it’s aimed toward healing, youth development, and reducing recidivism. But did you know that when juveniles enter Illinois’ youth justice system, they can be charged for things like legal representation, room and […]
Illinois has made great strides in recent years when it comes to improving the number of students taking Dual Credit courses. Those classes help prepare them for life after high school and can earn them early college credit to boot. As Dual Credit enrollment has risen, community college remediation rates have gone down. Dual Credit […]
