State seeks input on revamping social studies standards

State education officials are seeking input from students, educators, parents and taxpayers on new civic course requirements and social studies learning standards.

A new task force is reviewing possible changes as part of an ongoing effort to update Illinois Learning Standards that began in 2010 with the state's adoption of new English language arts and mathematics standards. Illinois adopted new physical education standards in 2013 and science standards earlier this year. State officials are now shifting their focus on reviewing art and social studies standards to ensure benchmarks are updated in all subjects providing students a comprehensive education.

The Illinois Task Force on Civic Education is hosting a series of public hearings to discuss its recent report submitted to Gov. Pat Quinn and the General Assembly in May. The next hearing is from 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 15 at Willowbrook High School, 1250 S. Ardmore Ave., Villa Park.

The Illinois State Board of Education established the task force to analyze the current state of civic education, define best practices and make recommendations to the legislature.

The task force, made up of legislators and a diverse group of representatives, conducted four monthly meetings last spring and consulted current research and policy on civic education to develop the report. It defines civic education and makes recommendations regarding course requirements, revisions of social studies standards in Illinois, project-based/service-learning requirements for students, licensure/professional development for civics teachers, and student involvement in elections.

"The upcoming public hearings are an excellent opportunity for students, teachers, school leaders, parents and community members to have their voices heard and ensure that all Illinois youth graduate high school college, career and civic ready," said Shawn Healy, chair of the Illinois Civic Mission Coalition and the Civic Learning and Engagement Scholar at the Robert R. McCormick Foundation.

Comments may also be submitted via email at CETFR@isbe.net until Nov. 7. All comments will be included in the final report submitted to the General Assembly at the end of the year.

For the full report, visit isbe.net/reports/il-civic-ed-task-force2014.pdf.