Education Systems Center at Northern Illinois University (EdSystems) is a mission-driven policy development and program implementation center. We foster collaborative partnerships to design, implement, and evaluate policies and practices that ensure successful transitions to and through postsecondary and career opportunities for students, with a particular emphasis on historically marginalized populations.
How can Illinois make sure every education and workforce dollar delivers results for students, workers, and businesses? By investing in the Illinois Longitudinal Data System (ILDS).
Our new report examines how community colleges across the state are implementing Illinois’ model programs of study in two high-demand sectors: culinary and hospitality, and human and public services. The study examined 48 program submissions from 25 community colleges across rural, suburban, and urban areas.
In partnership with ICCB, EdSystems is releasing a new Companion Guide to the State of Illinois Model Programs of Study, designed to help high schools and community colleges successfully implement and continuously improve their programs of study.
Illinois’ new unified proficiency benchmarks better reflect students’ real readiness for college and careers, but they also raise challenges for schools in tracking growth and improvement over time.
Whether you’re designing a new pathway, scaling up a successful program, or ensuring students graduate with both academic preparation and career direction, our proven resources and professional learning can help you get there.
The State of Illinois Model Programs of Study Guides are being updated to reflect growing opportunities in the clean energy sectors. Learn about the changes and share your public comment by June 15, 2025.
