Educator Advisory Council
Centering Educator Voice in Statewide Policy
The Advance Illinois Educator Advisory Council (EAC) brings together a dynamic group of educators from across the state to help shape education policy through their lived expertise, advocacy, and leadership. We believe policies that impact students and schools are strongest when they reflect the experience and insights of those who serve in classrooms every day.
About the Council
Established in 2010, the EAC is a diverse, statewide group of educators who advise Advance Illinois on its policy priorities, provide feedback on education issues, and advocate for education equity in Illinois communities. Members also participate in leadership development and regional engagement to ensure educator perspectives are centered in statewide conversations.
“The EAC created a thoughtful, well-structured space that allowed for authentic educator input. I felt seen, heard, and valued throughout my participation. The cross-sector conversations were rich, and it was refreshing to engage with colleagues from across the state who brought different perspectives but shared a commitment to equity and student success.”
Ernesto Saldivar Jr.
9th-12th
Maine Township High School
District 207
The EAC is a two-year commitment where full-time educators help shape the Illinois education policy landscape by:
Advising on education policy through regular feedback and consultation
Participating in statewide advocacy efforts
Engaging in community organizing and regional leadership
Collaborating with peers to advance educational equity
This is a space for educators to grow as leaders while driving real change for students and schools.
For more information, please contact the Community Engagement Team at engagement@advanceillinois.org
Welcome to the 2025–2027 Educator Advisory Council Cohort
It’s with great excitement and deep gratitude that we welcome the 2025–2027 Educator Advisory Council cohort. This new group brings together educators from early childhood through postsecondary, from rural to urban regions, and from a wide range of backgrounds, disciplines, and lived experiences. Every single individual joining us through this cohort brings a shared commitment to equity, a belief in the power of public education, and a readiness to lead.
Get to Know the 2025-2027 Educator Advisory Council
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Erin Acosta
Director/ Parent Educator
Joliet School District 86 -
Joseph Brewer
Dean of Students
CUSD 4 -
Christerralyn Brown
Assistant Clinical Professor
Chicago -
José Burgos
Spanish Teacher
Orion CUSD 223
About Me -
Tyler Chance
Assistant Principal
Carbondale CHSD 165 -
Bob Chikos
Special Education Teacher
CHSD 155 Crystal Lake -
Jill Donnel
Executive Director - Higher Education
Urbana Champaign -
Juletta Ellis
Coordinator
Litchfield CUSD 12
About Me -
Juan Pablo Esquivel
Learning Specialist - Science
Chicago Public Schools -
Sofia Gonzalez
English Teacher
JS Morton District 201 -
Cassandra Hays
Social Science/Government Teacher
Trico District 176 -
Andrea Jamison
Assistant Professor
Bloomington-Normal -
Pavithra Loganathan
Assistant Center Director
Wheeling -
John Milosovic
Director of Support Services
West40 ISC -
Briana Morales
English Teacher
East St. Louis District 189 -
Annaliese Newmeyer
Educare Chicago/ Start Early
Chicago -
Elizabeth Pikes
Assistant Principal
Berkeley SD 87 -
William Polasky III
Social Sciences Teacher
Meridian CUSD 223 -
Avelira Rodríguez González
Principal
District U-46 -
Madeline Wood
Music Educator
United School District 304 -
Michelle Zurita-Sharpe
Pre-K Special Education Teacher
Chicago Public Schools
“To be in a space with varied perspectives assisted me to look outside of my microscopic view. It challenged me, and it was a welcome challenge.”
Dr. Carla Stewart
Counseling
Higher Education
“I have enjoyed networking with other teachers from around the state and sharing our ideas and viewpoints. It really creates a sense of community.”
Megan Zamora
K-12th
Meridian Community Unit SD 223
LEARN MORE ABOUT PREVIOUS EAC COHORTS
“I learned something at every meeting. I felt that my expertise was acknowledged. I was challenged to grow and look at my biases. I made such wonderful connections.”
Cara Craig
Prenatal-K
Childcare Network of Evanston
“Not a meeting went by when I was not struck by how much I could appreciate what a vast and diverse state this is in so many ways. Working with passionate people from so many different regions and contexts made me a better and fuller person.”
Bill Polasky
10th-12th
Meridian Community Unit School
District 223