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.
Full-day Kindergarten is Natural Complement to Smart Start
Robin Steans, president of Advance Illinois, and Brian Minsker, legislative advocacy director at Illinois PTA write that despite 92% of Illinois elementary or unit districts offering full-day programs, some families are still unable to access this invaluable opportunity for their children. Kindergarten is a pivotal year for young children and families and as the state considers embracing Smart Start Illinois, we have a responsibility to ensure every student has the opportunity to gain the benefits of a full day of kindergarten — that we give our youngest learners the strongest possible bridge into their school years.
Measure Would Require Illinois Schools to Document Student Trauma
Senate Majority Leader Kimberly Lightfoot, D-Maywood, is leading the charge among Democrats pushing the Illinois State Board of Education to create a children's adversity index to measure the exposure to trauma being experienced by students.
Illinois Could Create Childhood Adversity Index Under Senate Proposal
Senate Majority Leader Kimberly Lightford (D-Maywood) wants the Illinois State Board of Education to create a children's adversity index to properly measure the exposure to trauma. This index would document childhood trauma for children ranging from three to 18 years old by May 31, 2025.
In Chicago, A Watershed Moment for Teens Transitioning to the Rest of Their Lives
For the Illinois secondary education system and an economy in desperate need of skilled talent, an increased emphasis on pathway programs is making this a watershed moment for teens transitioning from high school to the rest of their lives.
A Movement to 'Radically Change' School Funding Picks Up Steam
By providing support to underfunded and under-resourced schools with evidence-based funding and also by requiring career pathways, Illinois is sending an important signal that it will do its part to put an end to the status quo.

