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.
In addition to helping shape Advance Illinois’ education policy agenda, council members develop advocacy leadership skills to further advance educational equity statewide. EAC members:
Shape Statewide Policy: Influence policy decisions that impact your students and peers.
Grow as a Leader: Build skills in advocacy, community organizing, and public speaking.
Connect Across the State: Join a network of educators committed to equity and collaboration.
Are Heard: Ensure frontline educator voices are included in statewide education priorities.
For more information, please contact the Community Engagement Team at engagement@advanceillinois.org
“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
Join the Educator Advisory Council
We’re looking for passionate, full-time educators from across Illinois, including:
Early childhood educators
K–12 public school staff (teachers, instructional coaches, counselors, deans, school leaders)
Higher education faculty and staff
You must be employed full-time in an educational setting—such as a school, college, university, or licensed childcare center—during the 2025–2027 school years
Application Information
Apply Now: Applications for the 2025–2027 cohort open July 1, 2025.
Priority Deadline: August 30, 2025
Rolling Applications Accepted Through: September 25, 2025
Applicants will be notified of decisions by the end of September. The first orientation session will take place in October.
✉️ Questions?
Contact Maty Ortega Cruz at engagement@advanceillinois.org
“It made me realize that while challenges may look different in each region, there are shared goals and systemic issues that unify us.”
Juan Pablo Esquivel
9th-12th
Noble Network of Charter Schools
“My proudest achievement as an EAC member is connecting with my peers and growing with them.”
Precious Allen
2nd
Chicago Public Schools
COMMITMENT AND EXPECTATIONS
Term Length:
November 2025 – June 2027
Meeting Schedule:
Monthly virtual meetings (typically the 3rd Tuesday of each month)
Three in-person convenings per year
Optional ad hoc meetings during the legislative session
Engagement Requirements:
Active participation in at least one statewide campaign (e.g., school funding, educator pipeline)
Attend at least one Springfield Advocacy Day per year
Lead a community engagement project in your region
Stipend:
Members receive a $1,800 annual stipend, distributed in two payments per year. Full participation is required.
Learn about the 2023-25 Educator Advisory Council
“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
Find Advance Illinois blogs featuring EAC members below.
“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
