Get Loopy: The Illinois Loop

Concerned parents whose children are in the Illinois educational system have a current and opinionated organization on their side: The Illinois Loop. Kevin Killion, the organizer of the website says that The Illinois Loop is a loose network of parents, school board members and others.  "Most of us got involved simply because we saw our own kids experiencing thin or trendy programs in schools, and we wanted to attempt to restore substance."

'Substance' includes traditional subjects that of course meet state standards. In the math section of the website, parents list their schools' math programs, which Illinois Loop then links to the publisher's website, parent reviews or other research. The 'language' section is large, with reading, literature, grammar and writing sections. These sections cover basics, such as textbooks, but also the larger picture of fears that hurt the growth of children. For instance, research from the literature section questions the effects of students reading excerpts from classic novels (as opposed to the entire novel). What happens when students do not read all of a book? Does it make them less articulate? Do they still realize the development of themes? Does the message relate to their lives as well? Parents continue to raise such questions with other subjects, at a common meeting ground.

Participants in The Illinois Loop also examine the validity of current teaching methods and classroom activities. While many activities such as "jigsaw" and "collaborative learning" may sound engaging and promising, parents seek research on what these activities entail and what research shows about them. Additionally, since such activities are unclear, parents do not know how to help with homework or speak with educators. Collaboration from The Loop facilitates dialogue.

The Illinois Loop additionally provides research on educational methodologies and leaders. A comparison of schools, by programs offered and location is accessible. Education concerning education-the flaws and advances-is the goal of The Illinois Loop. Killion presents some of the information with a sarcastic overtone, one that is common with those frustrated in the nation's educational system. He condemns the "fluff" in education and calls for the return of basics. This of course is where Illinois Loop helps, as it raises realistic questions about the viability of an education Illinois students receive. It is a portal for parents wanting to contribute to and grow the Illinois educational system.

The Illinois Loop empowers parents with updated education laws, politicians' stances on educational issues, and contact information. Not from Illinois? The Loop has connections in most states, and most issues covered concern the nation. Lastly, The Illinois Loop provides definitions of educational terms and clarification of new movements. Overall, the Illinois Loop upholds its promise of keeping parents in the loop, and more involved with their children's educations.

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