Illinois
State Information
The purpose of this document is to capture state-by-state information of policy and guidelines related to the science of reading / evidence-based reading instruction to be presented on The Reading League Compass, a website of reliable and reputable guidance and resources for targeted stakeholder groups.
Local control?
Yes
Has your state passed legislation and/or non-legislated rule changes related to the science of reading?
No, the science of reading is not called out specifically in any Illinois legislation.
Does your state have an approved curriculum list?
No, Illinois is local control. We provide the Curriculum Evaluation Guidelines, but it is up to local boards of education to determine the content and methods for instruction.
For multilingual learners: State policy requires districts to select supplemental reading curriculum for English Learners from a required list by statute, administrative code, and state board policy.
Was evidence-aligned reading instruction a consideration for the curriculum review?
No, we do not review curriculum at the state level.
Please describe any other instructional-materials work related to the science of reading with links, where applicable
The state is currently developing the Illinois Literacy Plan (isbe.net)
Does your state have policy or guidance related to MTSS that incorporates information on the science of reading and/or evidence-based literacy practices?
Does your state have policy or guidance related to instruction and/or professional development
Literacy PD is provided for in the recently signed Public Act 103-0402
Please describe any grant work that names the science of reading and/or evidence-aligned instruction including links, where applicable
ISBE’s Title Grants Department has adopted the ESEA definition of “Evidence-based” for administration of grant programs where funds may be utilized for instructional expenses, for example: Schoolwide Programs (isbe.net) allows for “Evidence-based strategies to accelerate acquisition of content knowledge for English learners.”
Has your state reviewed standards for alignment to the science of reading?
No, we utilize the Common Core ELA standards and the Early Learning Standards.
Do you have policy or guidance regarding how to leverage evidence-based practices to support secondary students?
No
Do you have a “contact us” website that we can share publicly on TRL Compass?
Yes. The “contact us” website is located here
Interactive State Map
Use the interactive state map to find descriptions of state-level policy adoption, guidance, and practices related to the science of reading. State policy may include legislation incorporating training or practices related to the science of reading or state education agency guidance regarding policy, professional development, curricula, instruction, or assessment.
Filter by specific topic area(s) to find state-specific work:
The Reading League expresses gratitude to our collaborators and associates within the state education agencies for sharing their state-specific data. This data will undergo semi-annual updates, contingent upon the availability and resources of the respective state agencies. For any inquiries, clarifications, or updates, please reach out to compass@thereadingleague.org.
