Illinois middle schools are invited to explore participation in the Illinois Democracy Schools Network, a statewide initiative that recognizes schools for excellence in preparing students for informed, engaged participation in their communities and our constitutional democracy.

Illinois Democracy Schools is not a curriculum or an additional program. Rather, it is a school recognition process that helps schools identify strengths in their current practice, gather meaningful feedback from students and staff, and access resources to further strengthen a culture of inquiry, student voice, civic responsibility, and belonging.

Illinois Democracy Schools help schools make visible the powerful work they are already doing while providing a roadmap, resources, and recognition to take that work to the next level.

Thanks to support from the Andrew Carnegie Foundation, a limited number of middle schools will have access to professional learning, coaching, implementation resources, and support to assist school teams throughout the recognition process.

Benefits of Becoming an Illinois Democracy School

Participating schools receive:

• Statewide recognition for excellence in preparing students for civic and community life.
• A comprehensive school assessment process that gathers feedback from students, staff, and school leaders to identify strengths and opportunities for growth.
• Access to research-based tools and resources aligned to the Illinois Social Science Standards and best practices in civic learning.
• Professional learning opportunities for teachers and administrators focused on inquiry, student agency, constitutional democracy, and school improvement.
• Networking opportunities with other Illinois Democracy Schools and educators committed to strengthening civic learning.
• Implementation support to help school teams align civic learning efforts with existing school improvement goals and priorities.
• Student voice opportunities that elevate young people’s perspectives in shaping school culture and learning experiences.
• Access to grant-supported resources and incentives designed to support participation and continuous improvement efforts.

Participating schools will receive support with substitute coverage, teacher stipends for professional learning, and other implementation resources that help make participation manageable and meaningful for school teams.

School leaders interested in learning more are invited to attend a brief informational session with Mary Ellen Daneels, Director of the Illinois Democracy Schools Network, to explore how participation can support existing school goals and priorities.

To Express Interest or Learn More, fill out this brief google form: https://bit.ly/678IDS

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until available spaces are filled.