8 stories that illustrate pressing issues in Illinois schools
12 new players and legends leaving Bradenton's food scene
8 ongoing concerns about public behavior on Hilton Head beaches
Five most cherished locations this season
11 shark-incident insights on SLO County waters
17 crucial challenges facing the wine industry today
Some policy initiatives aimed at influencing schools and students.
March, 2024 - October, 2024
Recent legislative actions in Illinois are driving changes in the state's educational landscape, addressing both systemic issues and emerging challenges. A persistent teacher shortage remains a critical concern, with efforts underway to address its root causes, such as burnout and inadequate pay compared to other professions, as highlighted by recurring feedback in school surveys. Learning loss due to the pandemic continues to affect students across Illinois, with many not yet achieving pre-pandemic performance levels, prompting school districts to explore long-term strategies to sustain recovery efforts as federal aid expires.
Meanwhile, Illinois is shifting from the SAT to the ACT for state assessments, reflecting a broader move away from standardized test requirements in college admissions. Additionally, the state grapples with a lack of regulation in homeschooling, which has occasionally left children without adequate educational oversight, spurring some lawmakers to seek reforms to enhance protections and accountability for homeschooled children.
Meanwhile, Illinois is shifting from the SAT to the ACT for state assessments, reflecting a broader move away from standardized test requirements in college admissions. Additionally, the state grapples with a lack of regulation in homeschooling, which has occasionally left children without adequate educational oversight, spurring some lawmakers to seek reforms to enhance protections and accountability for homeschooled children.
9 top spots for Texas-inspired dining experiences
The 6 key shifts in NFL culture since Cowboys’ 1995 victory
11 closures highlighting challenges in Modesto’s business landscape
7 beloved food staples and their exciting evolutions downtown
12 landmark wins creating history in state-level high school sports
5 insights from Boise’s evolving restaurant industry
10 sibling success stories in high school sports
8 budget debates shaping Fresno State’s academic and athletic future
Six ways Miamians challenge legislation through action
5 Stories on Chiefs merch and on-field fashion