Over time, Illinois’ high school graduation requirements have evolved in a piecemeal fashion in response to shifting legislative priorities, workforce demands, and educational expectations. As these requirements accumulate—highlighted by recent legislative measures such as SB3070, which seeks to balance foreign language mandates with Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways—school districts face significant implementation pressures, resource strains, and structural misalignments. Stark resource disparities across communities often dictate whether schools can offer required coursework or specialized pathways, creating inequitable access for students across the state. Without a cohesive, equity-centered framework, existing graduation mandates risk creating unintended burdens on districts and barriers for students, rather than ensuring that every graduate is fully prepared for college, career, and long-term success.
Our Role
Building on our foundation in the College and Career Readiness State Advocacy Network, EdSystems is leading a statewide initiative to analyze Illinois’ high school graduation requirements, evaluate the operational pressures placed on students and districts, and resolve misalignments with broader educational goals. In 2026, EdSystems is convening an issue-area workgroup, conducting landscape research, and facilitating broad stakeholder engagement across the state. By synthesizing quantitative data, field perspectives, and regional policy models, EdSystems will elevate local voices and deliver actionable policy recommendations to establish more coherent, equitable pathways to graduation and postsecondary attainment.
Engagement Opportunities
Learn how you can join a focus group and complete the survey to share your experiences and perspectives.
