We observed an uncommon event earlier this week. Leap Day, February 29, only comes once every four years.

An even less common event, however, is currently underway: Illinois is updating its arts learning standards for the first time in nearly 20 years. While our state’s standards have remained the same since 1997, artistic mediums and approaches to teaching the arts have changed considerably.

It’s time to bring Illinois’ arts learning standards into the 21st century, and you can help make it happen. Click here to show your support for modernizing the standards.

The Illinois Arts Learning Standards Initiative recently presented the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) with recommendations for updated arts learning standards. More than a year of consensus building and statewide outreach went into developing the recommended standards. They place greater emphasis on technology in the arts and reflect 21st century skills.

ISBE recently opened a 45-day public comment period, which will last until April 11. Leap day might have passed, but the unique opportunity to comment on the standards has not. Your support is needed!

Learn more and submit your comments to ISBE today! You might not get this opportunity again for another 20 years.

Sincerely,