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.
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.
Report Offers Mixed Review of Educational Progress in Illinois
A new report about education in Illinois suggests that overall, the state has made significant progress in key areas, from readying toddlers for kindergarten to helping young adults earn college degrees or industry certificates before entering the workforce.
Illinois Now Ranks 18th in Nation for State Education Spending Per Student, Report Says
Illinois is no longer one of the worst states in America when it comes to funding K-12 schools, an improvement that may have helped it weather some of the COVID pandemic’s disruption to student learning, according to a new report.
Report: Illinois Ranks in Top 10 for Academic Growth from 3rd to 8th Grade, Proficiency Remains Low
A new report shows Illinois educational attainment continues to rise, and the state's schools weathered pandemic challenges better than other states.

