Representative Michael J. Madigan
22nd District
Speaker of the House

Dear Educators:

 

As you well know, education is facing a looming crisis in our state. Money is always a problem. The state is facing the largest deficit ever in its history. New federal mandates are causing chaos with teachers and administrators as well as school boards. Our focus on assessment has not generated student progress or growth in learning.

We desperately need your help. The governor has convened a special session of the state legislators to focus and investigate solutions to our educational crisis. As Speaker of the House, I have decided to name several ad hoc committees to advise the legislators in the best interest of education. The committees are listed below:

  • NCLB: No Child Left Behind
  • Assessment and Accountability
  • Funding and Programs
  • Early Retirement
  • Other Education Crisis Issues

Each of these committees will address a wide range of related issues. To be successful the committee will need access to important facts and current research as well as advice from experts in the field. We urge you to select one of the committees that you would be willing to support through your research and investigation, and then lend your counsel and advice to the senators and representatives debating these "hot" issues.

You will be expected to create and conduct a multimedia presentation for the legislators prior to their legislative session. Your presentation should provide a balanced report identifying the different perspectives on the issue, possible solutions to the problem, and a suggested action plan.

On behalf of the citizens of the State of Illinois, I am going to thank you in advance for your hard work and support. If you need further clarification, please feel free to e-mail my office.

Yours truly, Michael J. Madigan, Speaker of the House
217-782-5350 (phone) 217-524-1794 (fax)