2005-2006 PDK Forum Series

 

Educational issues don't stop at the walls of our local schools. They aren't confined to the halls of our universities. Teaching and learning are lifelong practices and they affect every aspect of our private lives and our public communities. As part of our commitment to engaging everyone in these important debates, the University of Illinois chapter of Phi Delta Kappa is sponsoring a series of four public forums on some of the most-pressing educational issues in West-Central Illinois.

These forums are all held on Saturday mornings in the Krannert Art Museum Auditorium on the University of Illinois campus. There is no charge and sessions are open to everyone. Parking is abundant in the area and is free on the weekend.

Early Childhood Education in Illinois: At the Crossroads

February 25, 2006
9:00am - Noon
Krannert Art Museum Auditorium (Room 62)

Recent research supports the hypothesis that good quality early care and education can increase children’s school readiness and help them achieve their potential in school and in life. In Illinois, the number of children attending state-funded pre-kindergarten programs has grown rapidly over the last 3 years. The recently developed Illinois Early Learning Standards are now being applied around the state, and a new statewide professional development system, called Gateways to Opportunity, has been established. You will hear from Lilian G. Katz, Professor Emerita of Early Childhood Education; Kay Henderson, head of the Early Childhood Division of the Illinois State Board of Education; Mark Obuchowski, Professional Development Advisor Coordinator for the Gateways to Opportunity project; and Margie Wallen, Early Learning Project Manager, Ounce of Prevention Fund.

The Transition into Adulthood

April 1, 2006
9:00am - Noon
Krannert Art Museum Auditorium (Room 62)

Over the last three decades we have seen important economic and cultural shifts in the way that young people approach and enter into adulthood. Research suggests that too many young people today feel disconnected from their families and communities, increasing the likelihood of poor educational and work outcomes. This forum will take a closer look at the transition into adulthood and examine strategies that local families, schools, and communities can use to help young people move successfully into the next stage of life.

COMPLETED FORUMS

Healthy Communities for Child Development and Learning

November 21, 2006
9:00am - Noon
Krannert Art Museum Auditorium (Room 62)

“It takes a Village to raise a child!” This phrase has become a part of the public lexicon, easily recognized as a fundamental truth. Yet we seldom stop to think about what it means to be a village where children can grow and learn safely. This Forum provides just such an opportunity for parents, educators, and the broader community. We will hear from local government officials, educators, health and social service providers, and representatives of community organizations and agencies—along with experts from the University of Illinois and Parkland College—as we explore the health of Champaign and Urbana for children’s development and learning. We will learn what works and what we can do better.

Making No Child Left Behind Workable for Parents,
Children, Schools, and Communities

January 28, 2006
9:00am - Noon
Krannert Art Museum Auditorium (Room 62)

By 2013-14 all students will be expected by the federal No Child Left Behind (NCLB) law to reach high standards, at the very least becoming proficient in reading/language arts and mathematics. NCLB also raises requirements in the areas of Limited English Proficiency, Highly Qualified Teachers, Safe Schools, and High School Graduation. This federal legislation has had a far-reaching effect on American public education in a very short time, and it will continue to shape policy as it relates to public education for years to come. This forum will provide venue for discussing how we can make NCLB workable for everyone in our communities.