The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) hosted the 19th annual Statewide Summit for Bilingual Parents on May 3 in Oak Brook. More than 1,100 attendees – parents and caregivers of multilingual students and members of Bilingual Parent Advisory Committees from across the state – gathered to strengthen their advocacy and leadership in supporting the success of English learners (ELs).  The summit offered a full day of interactive sessions and networking opportunities for families whose children are enrolled in multilingual programs. Sessions covered a variety of topics relevant to EL success, including: 

• Equitable funding and services for ELs. 

• Educational programs and services from pre-K through Grade 12. 

• Access to higher education opportunities. 

• Parent leadership and advocacy. 

• Immigrant and community issues affecting EL families.

ELs are the fastest-growing student population in Illinois. During the school year 2023-24, approximately 303,000 students were identified as English learners – representing almost 16.4 percent of the state’s total public school enrollment.

Photo Credit: Illinois State Board of Education