Next-Level Advocacy: Illinois Participates at COSSBA’s Federal Conference
By the IASB Governmental Relations Team
IASB participated in the Consortium of State School Boards Association’s Federal Advocacy Conference in Washington, D.C., with over 30 school board members. The Governmental Relations team facilitated essential discussions with Senator Tammy Duckworth, staff members for Senator Dick Durbin, and numerous other Congressional Representatives.
“Hearing firsthand from lawmakers and staffers about their current work on policies that impact education and funding both educated and empowered us to better articulate our needs during our visits to legislators,” said attendee Allison Fosdick, a school board member from Indian Prairie CUSD 204. “And above all, fighting for our students at the federal level was invigorating and gave us as school board members the opportunity to share how federal policies impact districts at the local level. It was truly time well spent.”
IASB is a member of COSSBA, a non-partisan national alliance dedicated to sharing resources and information that support, promote, and strengthen state school boards associations throughout the United States. In total, 14 meaningful discussions took place September 8-10, 2024, with Congressional members and their staffs, focusing on issues that directly impact education in Illinois. Key topics discussed included:
- A Sensible Bipartisan Approach to Funding the Federal Government: This initiative is critical for ensuring that Illinois schools receive the necessary financial resources to operate effectively. A stable federal budget is essential for local districts to plan and allocate funds for various educational programs.
- Support for the IDEA Full Funding Act (S. 2217/H.R. 4519): This act aims to fully fund the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which is crucial for Illinois schools. Full funding would alleviate some financial burdens on districts, allowing them to provide better services and resources for students with disabilities.
- Support for Child Nutrition and Rural Broadband Programs in the Farm Bill Reauthorization: These programs directly affect student well-being and educational equity in Illinois. By ensuring access to nutritious meals and reliable internet, we can support the learning environment for all students, especially those in rural areas.
- Support for the E-Rate Program and Cybersecurity Measures for K-12 Schools: As technology becomes increasingly integrated into education, robust cybersecurity protocols are critical for protecting sensitive student data and ensuring a safe digital learning environment. A key issue raised by Illinois school board members is the need for reliable internet access at home and on school buses, particularly for rural districts where connectivity is often limited. This access is vital for students to complete assignments and engage in online learning outside of school. However, a recent 5th Circuit case jeopardizes the ability to use federal funding for expanding internet access, putting critical initiatives at risk. Ensuring continued support for the E-Rate Program is crucial for Illinois schools to bridge the digital divide, enhance educational opportunities, and safeguard against cyber threats in an increasingly connected world.
- Mental Health Supports for K-12 Public Education: Mental health is a growing concern in Illinois schools. By advocating for increased mental health resources and programs, we can foster a healthier school environment and support the well-being of students and staff alike.
- Child Nutrition Programs: Access to healthy meals is vital for student success. Supporting these programs helps ensure that all Illinois students have the nourishment they need to learn and thrive.
Participating districts from Illinois included Champaign CUSD 4, Cicero SD 99, Country Club Hills SD 160, Flanagan-Cornell Unit District 74, Homewood-Flossmoor CHSD 233, Indian Prairie School CUSD 204 (Naperville), J Sterling Morton HSD 201 (Cicero), Kildeer-Countryside CCSD 96, Meridian CUSD 223 (Stillman Valley), Naperville CUSD 203, Rockford SD 205, Round Lake CUSD 116, Schaumburg CCSD 54, and Triopia CUSD 27 (Concord).
IASB President Mark Harms and Vice President Tracie Sayre were among the board members attending. The delegation also included the IASB Governmental Relations team, Executive Director Kimberly A. Small, J.D., and Associate Executive Director Jeremy Duffy, J.D.
“The information shared during the conference was informative, thought-provoking, and inspiring. Visiting the United States Capitol and given the opportunity to express gratitude for the work our legislators are doing, while expressing the needs of our school districts was most fulfilling,” said Denise Pearson, board member for Rockford SD 205.
In addition to connecting with Duckworth and Durbin, the Illinois delegation met with the members and staffs of Representatives Nikki Budzinski, Bill Foster, Jesús G. “Chuy” García, Robin Kelly, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Darin LaHood, Mary Miller, Mike Quigley, Jan Schakowsky Brad Schneider, Eric Sorensen, and Lauren Underwood.
“The COSSBA conference exceeded my expectations, said José Rivera, board member at Kildeer-Countryside CCSD 96. “Each speaker and panel enlightened me, a first-year board member, on the federal laws, political issues, and demographic trends relevant to our education system. I also was pleasantly surprised that the IASB team was able to secure meetings with all my legislators even though it was Congress’ first day back from its break. Finally, I appreciate the opportunity to meet board members from across Illinois and the country to learn about approaches and solutions to our common issues. I will be attending next year!”
The 2025 COSSBA Federal Advocacy Conference will take place from September 7-9, 2025, in Washington, D.C. More information will be available by May 2025, and IASB encourages members to attend and to advocate for the future of education in Illinois.