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APRIL 22, 2025
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Students in Molly Green’s third grade class at Country Trails Elementary School in Elgin recently started their math review outdoors with an Egg Hunt. Ms. Green hid about 100 plastic eggs, 20 of which had math problems inside, and the students scooped them up within 10 minutes. Back in the classroom, they partnered up to “crack” down on multiplication, division, fractions, rounding, and more.
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ILLINOIS NUMERACY PLAN SURVEYS
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Dear Colleagues:
The 2024 Illinois Report Card showed great news: Students in Grades 3-8 had achieved the highest ever proficiency rate for English language arts. Unfortunately, when it came to math, our data showed something was not adding up.
For several years, schools nationwide and in Illinois have been focused on literacy. Our acclaimed Illinois Comprehensive Literacy Plan, developed through the expertise of educators across the state, has supported the work of Illinois educators to strengthen literacy instruction, accompanied by professional learning, resources like the curriculum evaluation tool, and grant funding available to all districts and Regional Offices of Education. At the same time that we want to keep advancing evidence-based practices in literacy, we also need to dial up our focus on math.
Last week, we announced the launch of our statewide effort to develop a numeracy plan, following the model of our literacy plan. The development of our numeracy plan moved into its first phase with the release of three Needs Assessment Surveys:
Access the surveys on our Standards and Instructions webpage. We will use the survey results to inform our invitation-only Numeracy Summit with state and national experts on June 3, where attendees will review survey findings and shape the direction of our plan. The survey closes April 30.
We will publish multiple drafts of the numeracy plan and collect feedback from all stakeholders across the state through a statewide listening tour and online. We anticipate presenting the final numeracy plan to the ISBE Board for approval by June 2026.
I’d also like to remind you to register for my next Fireside Chat on May 15 with math expert Shalinee Sharma, who is the CEO and co-founder of Zearn, a nonprofit educational organization behind the top-rated math learning platform used by one in four elementary school students and 1 million middle school students nationwide. She also authored the national bestseller, “Math Mind: The Simple Path to Loving Math.”
This undertaking is ambitious but also immensely important. Every student deserves to feel like they are “a math person” – equipped with the skills and understanding to pursue careers in STEM and to apply math concepts in their everyday lives. Our numeracy plan aims to give educators the tools they need to elevate instruction and unleash students’ math potential.
All my best,
Tony
Dr. Tony Sanders
State Superintendent of Education
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NEW! 2024 ILLINOIS TEACHER OF THE YEAR
New ISBE Podcast: ‘We Can Do It Differently'
“Some of us come into teaching because we always loved school. Some of us come into teaching because we didn't love school, and we want to change something about it.”
That’s a glimpse into Dr. Rachael Mahmood’s journey. With a Russian Jewish mother and an Indian Hindu dad, Rachael never felt like she fit in when she was a child attending school. That experience fueled her desire to become an educator.
Dr. Mahmood is now wrapping up her term as our 2024 Illinois State Teacher of the Year. In the latest episode of ISBE’s We Love Illinois Schools Podcast, you’ll hear how she came to view her heritage as a way to be a “connector,” and how educators can make all students feel like they fit.
“We can do it differently,” Dr. Mahmood says. “We can do it better than the experience that we've had.”
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NEW! CAREER & TECHNICAL EDUCATION
New CTE Teacher Training Webinar: Ways to Assess Your Lesson
and Planning
As the school year winds down, it is essential for new CTE teachers to reflect on their experiences, identifying successes, areas for improvement, and elements that may need adjustment. Join us at 11 a.m. May 6 for the New CTE Teacher Workshop: Ways to Assess Your Lesson and Planning webinar designed to guide educators through this reflective process. During the session, we will analyze what went well and what challenges arose throughout the year; explore strategies for evaluating, refining, and reteaching CTE units; and plan and strategize lessons and units for the upcoming school year. The deadline to register is May 5. Attendees will earn one professional development hour.
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Career Connections Conference Breakout Session Schedule Now Available
Whether you are a classroom educator, instructional coach, school counselor, or Career and Technical Education leader, there's something for everyone at the ISBE Career Connections Conference June 16-17 in Tinley Park. Breakout sessions will cover a wide range of topics, including innovative instructional strategies, career pathway development, industry-aligned practices, and student engagement techniques. Contact Betsy Westergreen at ewestergreen@niu.edu with questions.
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NEW! DATA, ACCOUNTABILITY & ASSESSMENT
Join us at the Final Three Assessment & Accountability Listening Tour Stops!
The Illinois State Board of Education is engaging stakeholders in the redesign of its system of assessment, accountability, and statewide support.
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Step 1: Make assessment data more accurate by developing new proficiency definitions people understand and support.
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Step 2: Make the accountability system more actionable by using clearer criteria to define each designation category for schools (criterion-defined instead of normed).
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Step 3: Use new, more accurate data to channel investments toward improving student outcomes.
ISBE invites administrators, educators, and other stakeholders to preview and give us your feedback on possible accountability models and on assessment performance level descriptors that will lay the foundation for new proficiency benchmarks. Join us for the final three stops on our statewide listening tour!
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NEW! FINANCE
FY 2026 EBF Data Sets Available for Review
ISBE is in the process of finalizing data that will be utilized in the fiscal year 2026 Evidence-Based Funding (EBF) calculations. These data sets are posted on the EBF Distribution page in the Data Sets dropdown. The following data sets have been posted and are available for review.
District administrators are encouraged to review their data now through May to ensure accuracy prior to EBF calculations being completed. EBF utilizes over 17,000 unique variables; corrections made by one district may result in changes to all districts’ results.
Contact SFF@isbe.net or 217-782-0249 if you have any questions.
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Updated Functionality in ISBE eGrants Systems
ISBE has implemented an update to its electronic Grant Management System (eGMS) based upon revisions to the Code of Federal Regulations. The system now allows grantees to take advantage of increased flexibilities in indirect cost for both state and federal grants. Grantees are required to submit a grant amendment to increase both the indirect cost rate for those grantees with a de minimis rate and to increase the amount of contractual costs that may be counted toward the indirect cost base. As a reminder, all grant amendments are due 30 days prior to the end of the project, typically May 31 for a June 30 end date and Aug. 1 for an Aug. 31 end date.
The U.S. Office of Management and Budget updated the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards on Oct. 4, 2024. Some of the changes increased the de minimis indirect cost rate from 10 percent to 15 percent and the amount of contractual expenses that can be included in the indirect cost calculation from $25,000 to $50,000.
This change only applies to projects with a start date on or after Oct. 1, 2024. Projects with a pre-Oct. 1, 2024, start date may not access the higher indirect cost rate and increase to the base.
The increased de minimis rate and increase to the base will be in effect for all fiscal year 2026 grants.
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New Toolkit for District-Led Resource Allocation Reviews
ISBE has published the Resource Allocation Self-Guided Toolkit, which is intended to support local district teams in completing district-led Resource Allocation Reviews (RARs). The Every Student Succeeds Act requires State Education Agencies (SEAs) to conduct RARs with districts that operate a significant number of schools identified for school improvement status via the Illinois Accountability System (§1111(d)(3)(A)(ii)). These RARs provide an opportunity for district and school leaders to collaboratively explore current resource allocation patterns and practices. The new toolkit makes ISBE’s RAR program materials, including a discussion protocol, rubric, supporting research, and a unique data dashboard, available to all districts. These materials may be used to support varied goals, such as identifying strategies to address resource inequities or evaluating existing resource allocation practices. The toolkit and corresponding RAR Dashboard can now be found on ISBE’s new RAR webpage.
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Upcoming Community Workshops on IDOT Funding Opportunities for Local Projects
The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is hosting 18 workshops throughout the state to help local governments and communities learn about and apply for funding opportunities. The Special Programs Assistance Conferences (SPAC) are designed to help potential grantees take part in the department’s Economic Development Program, Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program, and Safe Routes to School Program.
The events, scheduled into June, are geared to help local stakeholders understand competitive funding programs offered by IDOT, identify projects they can submit for consideration, and provide instruction on how to craft applications.
Registration information and date/time/location for each session are available on the IDOT SPAC webpage.
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NEW! NUTRITION
Get Ready for Summer EBT 2025: Information for Illinois
Eligible Schools
The U.S. Department of Agriculture approved Illinois’ plan for operation and management of the Summer EBT 2025 Program on April 15. The Illinois Department of Human Services is the administering agency for Summer EBT in Illinois, and the Illinois State Board of Education assists with data collection effort through our eligible schools.
Join us for the Summer EBT 2025 – Information for Illinois Schools webinar from 11 a.m.-noon April 28 and review the Summer EBT Fact Sheet for more information.
The 2023 Consolidated Appropriations Act (P.L. 117-328) authorized the permanent, nationwide Summer EBT program beginning in 2024. The federally funded program will provide grocery-buying benefits to low-income families with school-aged children when schools are closed for the summer.
Households are encouraged to visit the IDHS Summer EBT webpage, where they can access Summer EBT 2025 program information, as well as the Summer EBT Screener to check eligibility. If the students are not determined automatically eligible and the adult household member believes that the household would meet the program requirements, the household can complete and submit a Summer EBT application.
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SY 2025-26 Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program Applications Due
May 9
ISBE is accepting applications for eligible schools to participate in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program in school year 2025-26.
The USDA Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) is a federally assisted program providing free fresh fruits and vegetables to children at eligible elementary schools during the school day at a time outside of the meal periods. The goal of FFVP is to introduce children to fresh fruits and vegetables, to include new and different varieties, and to increase overall acceptance and consumption of fresh, unprocessed produce among children. FFVP also encourages healthier school environments by promoting nutrition education.
FFVP applications are due May 9. Sponsors with eligible schools that wish to participate should refer to the application instructions. Contact Emily Durbin at edurbin@isbe.net or 217-782-2491 if you have questions.
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NEW! SPECIAL EDUCATION
Third Annual Autism Conference
Mark your calendars for the Autism Conference on April 30. The conference will be packed with powerful speakers, practical strategies, and the voices that matter most. You’ll walk away inspired, informed, and empowered to make a meaningful difference — in the classroom, at home, and beyond.
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Breakout Sessions
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Keynote Presentation by Dr. Dithu Rajaraman
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Lived Experience & Parent Voices Panels
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The incredible Haley Moss is back as moderator!
Register to attend the Autism Conference virtually. In-person tickets are sold out.
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NEW! STANDARDS & INSTRUCTION
FY 2025 District Literacy Plan Implementation Grant Now Available
Illinois public school districts and Regional Offices of Education/ Intermediate Service Centers have been allocated funding to support the creation, revision, and implementation of local literacy plans. The FY 2025 District Literacy Plan Implementation Grant helps enhance literacy instruction and expand access to high-quality interventions. Funding use is flexible to meet your district's unique literacy needs. Apply now in IWAS! Entities that do not submit an application by April 30 will be at risk for deobligation of funds.
Application Requirements
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Submit the fiscal year 2025 District Literacy Plan Implementation Grant application in IWAS.
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Complete the District Literacy Plan Survey in IWAS (required). This survey collects your local literacy plan and must be completed within the grant year (indicate a future target completion date within the grant year in the application if needed).
Eligibility and Grant Allocations
Funding amounts were determined by a formula, based on district student enrollment. Entities with allocations are eligible to apply.
GATA Requirements
Applicants must meet Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA) requirements, including pre-qualification registration and risk assessments.
Office Hours
Join our office hours to get your questions answered directly by the ISBE Literacy Team.
Contact
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LEGAL
Sharing Additional Documentation - Title VI Certification
Earlier this month, Dr. Sanders shared Illinois’ response to the U.S. Department of Education (ED) Office of Civil Rights “Request for Certification” letter in which it demanded that all states and Local Education Agencies (LEAs) attest to compliance with Title VI. The ED letter also sought assurance that states and LEAs are not engaged in “illegal DEI.” The National Education Association is currently engaged in litigation with ED, and this document was filed in the National Education Association v. U.S. Department of Education case. Pursuant to the document, ED is required by the court to distribute this to SEAs for further distribution to LEAs. ISBE distributed its official notification to LEAs via email on April 11.
Please note that nothing further is required of LEAs at this time. ISBE’s response to ED continues to be the agency’s position, and ISBE will not be requesting or compiling attestations from LEAs.
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IN BRIEF
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Educator Opportunities
Share Your Voice on Computer Science Education in Illinois
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and the Institute for Advancing Computing Education, with funding from Expanding Computing Education Pathways Illinois, are conducting a short survey help understand the current landscape of K-12 computer science (CS) education in the state.
Your insights will inform efforts to support educators like you, your students, and your school(s) in expanding CS learning opportunities through legislation, resources, and more. Please consider completing the survey--whether or not your region, district, or school currently offers computer science. Survey results will be shared in a report published later this year.
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Combat Hate: A Free Digital Media Literacy Workshop
Can your students spot identity-based hate online? If they spot it, do they know what actions to take? If not, the Mobile Museum of Tolerance’s “Combat Hate” may be the solution.
“Combat Hate: A Digital Media Literacy Workshop” empowers students to identify hate speech on social media, analyze manipulation and disinformation tactics, and curate a positive digital footprint. Students will leave feeling empowered to combat online hate through education, informed action, and digital control for years to come.
The workshop is in alignment with Illinois’ Grades 9-12 Media Literacy Standards and has been adapted for Grades 5-8 as well. Request your “Combat Hate” workshop for school year 2025 or 2026.
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2025 Partner Plan Act Conference
The Illinois Action for Children Community Systems Statewide Supports (CS3) Team is thrilled to invite you to the 2025 Partner Plan Act Conference, “Equity from the Start: Interdependent Self and Community Care,” on May 6-8. The three-day virtual conference will feature a variety of workshops on community systems development, addressing key topics from increasing expanding cross sector partnerships in collaborations to building data infrastructure to advance equity.
Register for the 2025 Partner Plan Act Conference. It is free and open to the public.
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Ed Leaders Network
Bridging the Gap: How School Counselors, Administrators, and Teachers Can Collaborate For the Success of All Students
3-4 p.m. | April 29
This presentation will explore the vital role of school counselors in fostering student success by collaborating effectively with administrators and teachers. Presenter Patrick Wildman will highlight how counselors support academic achievement, social-emotional development, and career readiness through proactive communication, data-driven interventions, and a team-based approach. Strategies for building strong partnerships, addressing student needs holistically, and creating a positive school climate will be discussed. Attendees will leave with practical insights on maximizing collaboration to ensure the success of all students.
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Student Opportunities
Ronald Reagan Debate Series
The Ronald Reagan Debate Series offers high school students (Grades 9-12) a dynamic platform to test their rhetorical abilities and compete at both regional and national levels. This year, they have two distinct options to participate. For those near Eureka, Illinois, there will be an in-person regional event on April 26, providing an excellent opportunity for face-to-face interaction and competition. Alternatively, participants can opt to compete online May 30-31, ensuring flexibility and access regardless of location.
By participating, students not only stand to win prestigious scholarships — including a chance to advance to the National Championship for a portion of $50,000 in scholarships — but also gain invaluable experience in civil discourse, critical thinking, and public speaking under the auspices of one of the nation’s most iconic presidential institutions. Teachers are encouraged to inspire their students to take part in this enriching and potentially life-changing experience. Register for the Ronald Reagan Debate Series.
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Featured ISBE Career Opportunities
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The Illinois State Board of Education is the State Education Agency for Illinois. Our mission is to provide each and every child with safe and healthy learning conditions, great educators, and equitable opportunities by practicing data-informed stewardship of resources and policy development, all done in partnership with educators, families, and stakeholders.
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