Contact:
Advance Illinois Communications
communications@advanceillinois.org

CHICAGO, IL (October 29, 2021) - Today, the Illinois State Board of Education released its 2021 Illinois Report Card. On behalf of Advance Illinois, President Robin Steans shares the following statement: 

“As school communities across the state continue to address the ongoing challenges created by COVID-19, and amidst ongoing and serious data gaps and complexities, Advance Illinois applauds the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) for releasing important available information in its 2021 Illinois Report Card. We appreciate ISBE’s efforts to present data as accurately as possible and to indicate where data is reliable, where it should be considered with caution and where it is necessarily delayed.” 

“It comes as no surprise that schools across the state face real challenges in re-engaging students. Enrollment has dropped an unprecedented 3.6% from 2020, and chronic absenteeism has risen alarmingly 4.7 percentage points from 2019’s 16.5% pre-pandemic rate to 21.2% in 2020. Although high school graduation rates have remained strong, a dip in the 9th grade on-track rate suggests that students making their 9th grade transition experienced setbacks that may impede their chances of graduating. Taken together, these data underscore the need for strong student supports, intensive tutoring and student engagement and outreach.”  

“Amidst the discouraging news, there are some unexpected bright spots. It is terrific to see increases in the number of students enrolled in Dual Credit and Advanced Placement courses, more stability in staffing than we might have expected, and a modest increase in the number of teachers of color across the state. We are invigorated by ISBE’s inclusion of additional data on the diversity of administrators, which importantly highlights the work our state still needs to do to ensure school personnel, including school leadership, reflect the diversity of our students.” 

“Looking ahead, and knowing what a toll the past two years have taken on students and educators alike, it will be critical to gather additional data on school climate, social emotional learning and implementation of trauma-informed practices.” 

“It is essential that we understand the impact COVID-19 is leaving in its wake, identify places where students, schools and educators will need support and attention and monitor progress and challenges as we work together to rebuild and renew. Timely, reliable information will be key, and we appreciate ISBE’s ongoing efforts to illuminate this work under trying circumstances.” 

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About Advance Illinois
Advance Illinois is an independent policy and advocacy organization working toward a healthy public education system that enables all students to achieve success in college, career and civic life. Since its founding in 2008, Advance Illinois has become a nationally recognized thought leader in education policy advocacy. To learn more, visit advanceillinois.org.