Education Systems Center at Northern Illinois University (EdSystems) is a mission-driven policy development and program implementation center. Through collaborative partnerships, we design, implement, and evaluate policies and practices that ensure successful transitions to and through postsecondary and career opportunities for students.
Illinois has no central way to see whether high school graduates enroll in college, complete degrees, or find good jobs. Without linked education and workforce data, we can’t know which programs actually help students succeed long-term. Our new brief explores why data linking is so challenging and what Illinois needs to do next.
Preparing students for an uncertain future requires flexible, learner-centered systems that cultivate adaptable skills, expand access to opportunity, and responsibly harness emerging tools. That’s what’s driving the fourth pillar in our policy agenda, Future Readiness. Learn more about our aims and approach.
As we begin 2026, we’re reflecting on the significant policy shifts of the past year and the opportunities they create for strengthening pathways for Illinois learners.
To ensure every young person is ready for life after high school, EdSystems is working with Southwestern Illinois College and its partner K-12 institutions to establish regional model pathways and robust work-based learning opportunities.
As 2025 comes to a close, the Illinois Education and Career Success Network reflects on a year of growth and collaboration. Learn how communities are working together to build the future we want for Illinois students.
As we complete the target year of the state’s postsecondary attainment goal, what have we achieved, what have we learned, and what should come next?