IL State Board of Education developing new math plan, seeking public feedback

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — The Illinois State Board of Education is looking for feedback on the first draft of a plan to strengthen math learning, and they’re planning a series of listening sessions across the state to receive this feedback.

The aforementioned plan is the Illinois Comprehensive Numeracy Plan. Modeled on the state’s successful and nationally acclaimed Illinois Comprehensive Literacy Plan, the Comprehensive Numeracy Plan will provide guidance that supports educators, schools and districts in advancing student success in math.

“Every student deserves the confidence that comes from strong math skills,” State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders said in a news release. “Numeracy equips students to think critically, solve problems, and make informed decisions in daily life. The Comprehensive Numeracy Plan will give educators the evidence-based tools they need to help students succeed, and it will ensure that every child in Illinois has access to high-quality math instruction. We invite all educators to be a part of this effort – your voices will help shape a plan that truly meets the needs of Illinois students.”

Development of the Comprehensive Numeracy Plan started this year with a statewide needs assessment survey, which included feedback from 3,000 people. Respondents included educators, school leaders and education community partners.

The next phase begins next month with a series of listening sessions across the state. Only two are planned for Central Illinois:

• Oct. 16 at the ISBE’s office in Springfield — 100 North 1st Street
• Nov. 5 at the Alice Campbell Alumni Center on the University of Illinois campus — 601 South Lincoln Avenue in Urbana

Both listening sessions start at 4 p.m. Attendees can register on Eventbrite.

The first draft of the Comprehensive Numeracy Plan will be published in conjunction with the upcoming listening sessions, and the final draft is planned to be presented to the ISBE Board for approval by June 2026.

ISBE officials said that since the adoption of new math learning standards in 2010, Illinois has not had a comprehensive statewide support system for math instruction.

“Since the adoption of new math learning standards in 2010, Illinois has not had a comprehensive statewide support system for math instruction,” ISBE officials wrote. “The Comprehensive Numeracy Plan will fill that gap by equipping educators with guidance for evidence-based instructional strategies to support all students in developing the numeracy skills necessary for success in college, career, and life.”

People can visit the Illinois State Board of Education’s website to learn more about the Illinois Comprehensive Numeracy Plan.