IASB has published an updated Thirteenth Edition of its top-selling book, Illinois School Law Survey. Updated bi-annually, this book is the most convenient way to access and cross-reference most school law issues. Its question-and-answer format allows readers to find answers to the most commonly-asked questions facing or posed by school superintendents, school boards and the general public. Click HERE for more information about this new title, or visit the online bookstore.

Registration for prospective exhibitors for the 2014 Joint Annual Conference is now open. Links include instructions, floor map, contract, badge and housing registration, and advertising rates for the conference program. Registration and housing for board members, superintendents and others will be posted in early June.

Poverty plays a major role in student achievement, whether in urban or rural schools See the cover story: "Poverty at school: Tightrope of perils." Also...

This issue reports on a grassroots push by school superintendents to delay Common Core testing in Illinois. News is also included on a plan by the governor to make the 2011 state income tax hike permanent, joint annual conference keynote speakers, along with reports on prospective state budget cuts of nearly $1 billion, results of March 18 school finance referenda, and news of upcoming board secretary awards, award-winning school districts, and an invitation to submit resolutions to guide IASB.

Compiled each week during sessions of the General Assembly and as needed during off-session times, Alliance Legislative Reports summarize major legislative activities and bills of interest to school leaders. Read the latest ALR here (4/11/14).