The Mission in Action

The Illinois Education Research Council was established in 2000 at Southern Illinois University to provide Illinois with education research to support P-20 education policy making and program development. The IERC undertakes independent research and policy analysis, often in collaboration with other researchers, that informs and strengthens Illinois’ commitment to providing a seamless system of educational opportunities for its citizens. Through publications, presentations, participation on committees and an annual research symposium, the IERC brings objective and reliable evidence to the work of state policy makers and practitioners. It has legislated responsibility to provide and coordinate research to inform the work of the Illinois P-20 Council, which is composed of representatives from the Governor’s office and the General Assembly, designees from the three education sectors (elementary, secondary, and higher education), and business, union, and community leaders.

Administrative Structure

The IERC is led by its Director, who appoints and receives advice from an Advisory Board drawn from Illinois’ educational researchers, education providers, state education agencies and other stakeholders. The Advisory Board meets twice a year to review progress and advise on priorities and projects. The IERC is administratively housed in The Graduate School at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.

The Staff of the Illinois Education Research Council

The Director was appointed in 2001 and the research staff came on board during 2002. The Illinois Education Research Council now has a small cadre of professional staff; they are well equipped as quantitative and qualitative researchers and policy analysts to undertake major research projects, policy analyses, and research reviews. The work of the IERC is extended through collaborative partnerships with other researchers. The IERC also seeks to leverage the state investment in the IERC through grant funding.