The September/October 2026 issue of the Illinois School Board Journal returns to the topic of educational equity, with articles on advanced learners, student voice and AI, building belonging, and resources for boards of education. Read selected content below and experience the complete digital edition flipbook.
Cover Stories
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Meeting the Needs of Illinois’ Advanced Learners: What School Board Members Need to Know
By Pamela ShawJournal | September/October 2026 What does success look like for Illinois advanced learners, and how do we ensure their needs are being addressed by our schools?
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Storytelling for Connection, Advocacy, and Data-Driven Decision Making
By Maryam Brotine and Jennifer CiokJournal | September/October 2026 Bridging connections with each other, our school districts, and our communities through storytelling.
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Building Belonging
By Katie BulavaJournal | September/October 2026 The framework of McLean County Unit District 5’s DEI plan includes systems; teaching and learning; professional learning; student voice, climate, and culture; and family and community as agency.
Feature Articles
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A Survey of America’s School Board Members
By Jon Valant, Rachel M. Perera, and Nicolas Zerbino, BrookingsJournal | September/October 2026 The Brookings Institution, to document board members’ perspectives, conducted a nationally representative survey.
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Governing in an AI Environment: Students Offer Experience-Based Perspectives
By Gary FasulesJournal | September/October 2026 As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes more deeply embedded in daily life, school boards are grappling with new and complex questions about how AI should be used in classrooms and how to guide students in its responsible use
Regular Features
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Front Page: Educational Equity for 2026
By Theresa Kelly GegenJournal | September/October 2026 While equity conversations continue, educational equity is no longer just a standalone topic, a single seminar, or a snapshot of a moment in time. It can be those things, but today it is embedded in our efforts and rooted in our work.
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Leadership Letter: IASB Presents Honorary Memberships
By Kimberly A. Small, J.D.Journal | September/October 2026 The Association is taking this opportunity to implement a more formal, transparent process for honorary memberships and officially express gratitude to exemplary local school leaders,
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On Outreach & Training: Doing Right by All Students
By Sandra KwasaJournal | September/October 2026 Doing Right By All Students explores educational equity, the thoughtful use of data to guide decision-making, and meaningful engagement with community stakeholders.
Commentary
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Commentary: Make a Difference at the Delegate Assembly
Journal | September/October 2026 Delegates need to be present in order to vote and make a change — in order to make a difference.