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The Forum on the Future of Public Education

The Forum on the Future of Public Education strives to bring the best empirical evidence to policymakers and the public.

The Forum draws on a network of premier scholars to create, interpret, and disseminate credible information on key questions facing P-20 education. The Forum pursues original research and facilitates collaboration between researchers and policymakers to examine the pressing issues shaping the future of public education. Key constituencies of the Forum include scholars who influence research, policy and practice; policy makers and policy making bodies at all levels; members of the media who influence public opinion; foundations, organizations, business groups and others who support, criticize and advocate for reform; and citizens who make choices about education for themselves and their children.

America is witnessing a drastic redefinition of the policies and practices associated with “public education.” Too often, discussions around the future of public education are strong on passion but short on actual evidence. The Forum for the Future of Public Education is filing that gap by building a resource of objective, research-based insights on key educational issues. We are establishing an open venue- a true public forum to debate controversial and consequential policy issues that will shape American’s future.

Latest News

Small College with a Big Heart

by the College of Education at Illinois / Sep 6, 2016

College of Education at Illinois welcomes Class of 2020Education at Illinois faculty, staff, and students welcomed the Class of 2020 to the family in enthusiastic orange and blue style in the courtyard of the Education building on August 19. Our newest “great minds” were buzzing with excitement (and possibly a little sugar) as they met their fellow classmates, checked out student groups and volunteer opportunities like SOAR, and heard from Interim Dean James Anderson and Associate Dean for Academic Programs Chris Span.

“I am beyond excited about the Class of 2020 becoming a part of our close-knit community,” said Span, who leads the Student Academic Affairs Office. “Our freshmen hail from all over Illinois and several other states. Their diverse backgrounds, their life experiences, and their choices of study will complement and enhance our College.”

Our eager and optimistic students share the belief that an educated citizenry is essential to a democratic society. During the summer, we renovated classrooms into flexible learning spaces with the latest technology and designed 11 study abroad classes for the coming year, which was in response to a 300 percent increase in participation last year, thanks in part to an automatic $500 scholarship for each student who studies overseas. With extra advising hours scheduled and technology specialists on hand, we can’t wait to help these future teacher leaders get started.