Illinois unveils effort for statewide numeracy plan to enhance math learning

The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) has initiated a statewide effort to create an Illinois numeracy plan. This strategy is intended to enhance student learning in mathematics by promoting high-quality, evidence-based instruction in classrooms across the state. The announcement follows the state's successful Illinois Comprehensive Literacy Plan, which has gained national recognition.

A statewide needs assessment survey will open from April 16-30 as the initial step in developing the numeracy plan. The survey's results are set to inform the upcoming invitation-only Numeracy Summit scheduled for this summer, which will gather state and national experts.

Dr. Tony Sanders, State Superintendent of Education, stated, “Just as we united educators, families, and community members to build a shared vision for improving literacy, we are now embarking on that same ambitious journey for mathematics." He emphasized that Illinois students deserve high-quality math instruction akin to their literacy education.

State Representative Rita Mayfield, who sponsored legislation for the Illinois Comprehensive Literacy Plan, remarked, “Literacy cannot be limited to just language. Students also must be knowledgeable and comfortable with numbers, so they can unlock new opportunities for themselves and make informed decisions about their futures."

Although Illinois has made significant improvements in literacy, outperforming pre-pandemic levels in English language arts, mathematics progress has lagged. The numeracy plan aims to provide guidance for effective and equitable math instruction while respecting the autonomy of school districts and acknowledging each district's unique student needs.

The ISBE is inviting participation from math educators, school leaders, and higher education representatives in the survey. The findings will help shape the guidance provided in the numeracy plan. ISBE plans to release a draft for public feedback through listening tours and online comments.

The final numeracy plan is expected to be presented to the ISBE Board for approval by June 2026. The Illinois Comprehensive Literacy Plan, adopted in January 2024, serves as a model for this initiative and is known for engaging a broad range of stakeholders.

ISBE recently launched a $3 million state-funded grant to assist school districts in implementing local literacy plans. Additional information and the survey are available on ISBE's Standards and Instructions webpage.