State report: 26% of kindergartners demonstrate readiness in key areas

By the Latino Policy Forum

The Forum provided feedback for a state report that indicated 26 percent of kindergartners demonstrate readiness in key areas. Those who do in each of three areas — social and emotional development, language and literacy development, and math — are considered to have demonstrated kindergarten readiness, and those who do not may need additional support.

See news story HERE.

Lower scores for English learners detailed in the report call out the need for more bilingual staff who have the linguistic skills to connect with children in their primary languages. The bilingual teacher shortage in Illinois needs to be addressed by preparation programs and policymakers.

The Forum is excited to have two years of statewide, comprehensive information about the social-emotional, behavioral, and cognitive skills that children across the state have upon entering kindergarten.

KIDS data provide an opportunity for districts to better understand the developmental needs of students to adjust curriculum, instruction and resources accordingly.

KIDS data inform conversations around what knowledge and skills children need to successfully transition into kindergarten.