education

The two-day tribute, led by Chicago Jazz Philharmonic co-founder and Artistic Director Orbert Davis, is designed to honor the life, innovation and influence of Davis, who was born in Alton and raised in East St. Louis before becoming one of the most important figures in American music. #jazz

ISAC announced the 2025–26 Financial Aid Application Completion Recognition of Excellence honorees this week, celebrating 469 schools across the state for their leadership in guiding students and families through the college financial aid process. #honored

The biennial report, The State We’re In 2025, tracks 15 years of data on funding, enrollment, staffing, affordability, and student outcomes from early childhood through higher education. #mentalhealth

The Illinois Policy Institute found that state government spending on higher education in Illinois increased over $2 billion as enrollment dropped by more than 106,000 students between 2009 and 2024. #colleges

The company plans to convert the site into The Nest School–Vernon Hills, with construction scheduled to begin this month and the school expected to open in spring 2026. #construction

Students in the program benefit from guaranteed transfer pathways, including the Engineering Access Alliance, which offers enhanced admissions to the Grainger College of Engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. #engineering

The Board voted to pass Interim CEO Kenneth King’s $2025–26 budget, which the watchdog group described as “structurally imperfect” but prudent in avoiding classroom cuts, risky revenue assumptions, and short-term borrowing. #budget

The proposed budget, scheduled for a Board of Education vote Thursday, comes after months of hearings and surveys that gathered input from families, staff, and community members. #budget

IDNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie praised the awardees for their dedication to preserving natural and cultural resources while enhancing experiences for visitors across Illinois. #volunteers

“Our teachers are ready, our classrooms are ready, and the entire city is behind our scholars every step of the way.” #students