LM July 2026

News In Brief

IASA Expands Directors of Academic Empowerment Program to Strengthen District Improvement Support Across Illinois Helping superintendents build the systems and capacity needed to improve outcomes for all students is at the heart of IASA’s commitment to supporting school districts across Illinois. Through our continued partnership with the Illinois State Board of Education, the Directors of Academic Empowerment (DAE) program provides districts with access to experienced educational leaders who serve as thought partners in strengthening systems, supporting continuous improvement efforts, and building local capacity for sustainable growth. Click here to read complete message. ISBE Releases Artificial Intelligence Guidance for Illinois Schools Illinois superintendents are encouraged to join State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders on Aug. 10 from 3-4 p.m. for a webinar highlighting key guidance and implementation strategies for school districts. Developed in response to Public Act 104-0399 and in partnership with national and state experts, ISBE has released its Artificial Intelligence Guidance for Illinois School Districts. Attendees will receive an overview of ISBE’s AI Guidance , review practical use cases, learn about legal and policy considerations, and explore customizable tools and resources to support implementation. The Illinois State Board of Education emailed the webinar registration link directly to superintendents. FY 2026 EL-EBF Expenditure Reporting Now Available in IWAS Districts may now report their total fiscal year 2026 English learner (EL)-Evidence-Based Funding (EBF) expenditures in IWAS. All districts should report direct costs from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026. The FY 2026 EL-EBF expenditure reporting shows where EBF funds attributable to ELs were ultimately spent within each district. Only districts that received $5,000 or more in total fiscal year 2026 EL funds are required to submit an expenditure report through the period ending June 30, 2026. Any FY 2025 EL-EBF funds not expended in FY 2025 will appear in the FY 2026 expenditure report. Contact multilingual@isbe.net if you have questions.

ISDLAF+ Monthly Update Click here to view the most current ISDLAF+ rates, economic indicators and general economic news brief. To obtain additional information regarding this IASA sponsored service, contact Audra Braski, Senior Vice President, LGIP Director at 630–657–6422, or email: audra.braski@ptma.com . Website: www.ptma.com.

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LM July 2026