LM December 2015

ISBE focusing on local support, leading way for “Districts of Innovation’

Q: Where do you stand on the ever-growing list of unfunded mandates that school districts face? A: Since 2009, there have been more than $3.7 billion in cuts to public education in Illinois. Those are real dollars that were lost. In that same period, there have been more than 130 additional statutes put on you, including some 200 more reporting requirements. ISBE is now down to just more than 400 employees, as compared to 725 less than 15 years ago. We did a work flow study and the amount of time spent on regulation was disproportionate to the time spent on service and support for school districts. I want us to focus deeply on support. The State Board recently adopted a revised set of goals for its strategic plan. They include:  All kindergarteners are assessed for readiness.  90 percent or more third-grade students are reading at or above grade level.  90 percent or more fifth-grade students meet or exceed expectations in mathematics.  90 percent or more students are on track to graduate with their cohort at the end of ninth grade.  90 percent or more students graduate from high school ready for college or career.  All students are supported by highly prepared and effective teachers and school leaders.  Every school offers a safe and healthy learning environment for all students. These more concrete and personalized goals will allow us to pinpoint what specific, targeted supports and resources are needed to close gaps and help every student reach these levels of success. We are trying to find out where the edge of mandate relief is, in order to maximize individual school districts’ autonomy and give innovative leaders the freedom they need to transform struggling schools and share their experiences. We will lead a legislative effort to create “Districts of Innovation” in Illinois. This initiative is designed to increase districts’ autonomy by allowing them to use their tools and resources in ways they know work best for children and families.

Ask the State Superintendent Dr. Tony Smith

Q: What is your stance regarding the KIDS (Kindergarten Individual Development Survey)? A: It is a beautiful research document, but it’s not really doable. I have told my staff that it must be limited to 10-15 items and 20 minutes per child or I cannot support it. I know that many districts are already doing similar assessments, but I do think we need a high quality, common data system. These results will allow us to thoughtfully and clearly advocate for early childhood education development. So, I am looking at 10 items that are doable and

If you have any questions for State Superintendent Dr. Tony Smith, please email them to mchamness@iasaedu.org.

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