Continuance

Continuance Fall / Winter 2003-2004

Aligned Plan Prepared by Illinois

Through the "Change in Education Initiative," the three education agencies in Illinois (P-12, community colleges, higher education) developed a plan of coordination. Representatives of other state agencies involved in education and training, also participated. The development of the plan was consistent with the work of the Joint Education Committee-- leadership for P-16 initiatives for the state. The recommendations touch three areas: access, achievement, and quality of life.

 Access:

• assuring that the educational needs of all learners are addressed;  
• removing financial barriers to educational advancement;
• smoothing transitions from one level to the next; and        
• cooperating with human service systems to serve underrepresented students.

Achievement:

• providing universal access to preschool;                         
• assuring high quality teachers    
• applying learning standards.

Quality of Life (career success and citizenship)

• providing opportunities to develop leadership and citizenship skills  
• providing strong academic foundation and career preparation.

For further information, contact the Illinois Community College Board, 217-785-0123

Illinois participated in the Change in Education Initiative sponsored by the MetLife Foundation and coordinated by the Education Commission of the States.

Illinois Requirements for High School Graduation and College Admission (English and Math)  

What is the Joint Education Committee?

The Joint Education Committee is mandated by Illinois statute and prescribes meetings and communication between the all levels of education--two representatives from four boards (Board of Higher Education, Community College Board, the State Board of Education, and the Workforce Investment Board). They meet at least quarterly to making public policy that reflects the needs of education P-16. The current chair is James L. Kaplan, also chair of the Illinois Board of Higher Education.

 . . . More in the next issue.

What is the Illinois Education Research Council?

The Illinois Education Research Council (IERC) was established in 2000, with support from the Illinois Board of Higher Education. Its mission is to foster education research and evaluation, policy analysis and reviews to further P-16 efforts. The Council, housed at SIU Edwardsville, works closely with the Joint Education Committee. The executive director is Jennifer Presley. http://ierc.siue.edu