In the News
Advance Illinois serves as a resource for media outlets from across the state and beyond on policy issues in education from birth to career. Here’s our recent coverage.
More Illinois Students are Proficient, New Test Scores Show. But the Cut Scores Changed.
On the first standardized test results reported since Illinois changed the scores needed to be deemed proficient, 52% of students met the bar in English and 38% did so in math.
Illinois Graduation Rates Hit All-time High, but New Test Score Benchmarks Make Progress Unclear
Illinois’ high school graduation rate has hit a 15-year high, as students continue to show academic growth above pre-pandemic levels, state officials announced Thursday with the release of the 2025 Illinois Report Card.
Peoria Public Schools Received More Funding This Year, but Advocates Say it Isn’t Enough
As Peoria Public Schools receive more state funding, some advocates are saying Illinois isn’t properly funding its public schools.
Where Does Illinois Rank on How Well it Funds Local Schools?
Illinois has climbed from 47th to 18th in state K-12 funding after adopting an evidence-based formula — showing gains despite COVID disruptions, but equity gaps and support-staff shortages remain.
New Report Reveals Progress and Problems in Illinois Education
A new report on Illinois education highlights both progress and persistent challenges. The state has improved in early learning and college readiness, yet proficiency rates in reading, writing, and math have stalled despite billions in added K-12 funding.

