Lake County Gazette

Jay Swidler, Chairman of Vernon Township Republicans, has expressed concerns over potential changes to academic standards in Illinois. He argues that lowering these standards is a misguided attempt to conceal systemic failures and emphasizes the need for parental involvement and accountability. Swidler's comments were made to the Lake County Gazette.

"Illinois education officials are lowering the bar rather than raising the quality of learning," said Swidler. "This move ignores the real need for teacher support, curriculum improvement, and engaged parenting. Masking poor performance with easier tests won't prepare students for the real world. This change is a political solution to an academic problem."

According to Chalkbeat, Illinois education officials are contemplating reducing the score required for students to be considered proficient on state standardized tests. They argue that current benchmarks are excessively high and do not accurately reflect students' readiness for college or careers. State Superintendent Tony Sanders said that many students are unfairly labeled as 'not proficient.' The Illinois State Board of Education began developing new testing systems on May 14, which would involve setting lower score benchmarks. If approved in August, these changes would impact spring 2025 test results.

The Illinois Policy Institute reported ongoing academic challenges in the state as of August. In 2023, only 35% of elementary students achieved grade-level reading proficiency, while 27% met math standards. Proficiency rates remain below pre-pandemic levels, with 81 public schools reporting no third-grade students reading at grade level—51 of these schools are located in Chicago. Despite record education funding of $10.9 billion for 2024-2025, both proficiency and enrollment continue to decline. School leadership is urged to address low academic performance, absenteeism, and other critical issues to ensure students graduate equipped for future success, particularly emphasizing foundational skills like reading by third grade.

Swidler was first elected as Chairman of the Vernon Township Republicans in 2024. According to the organization’s website, he is "focused on boosting Republican voter turnout, growing the Party’s membership, and communicating the Party’s positions on issues that matter to Vernon Township voters."