According to the 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress report, Illinois ’eighth-graders outperformed the national average in both math and reading.

The National Assessment of Educational Progress, also known as the “Nation’s Report Card,” is given every two years to a sample of America’s children. It is considered one of the best gauges of the academic progress of the U.S. school system. The most recent exam was administered in early 2024 in every state, testing fourth- and eighth-grade students on math and reading.

Topping off the achievement in Illinois, third- through eighth-graders showed the highest English proficiency rate to date.

Below are the detailed results of the exams:

• For the state’s fourth-graders, 59% performed at or above grade level in both math and reading, while 30% expressed proficiency.
• Taking a closer look, Illinois students did well in math, with 62% of eighth-graders performing at or above grade level and 32% at or above proficiency, a 6% percent increase since 2022.
• Fourth-graders also excelled in math, with 74% performing at grade level and 38% performing above proficiency.

This year, Illinois surpassed the national average, with only one state outperforming them. According to the report, 70% of eighth-graders performed at or above grade level while 33% of students achieved proficiency, which in the assessment is described as a more “aspirational” level of performance beyond grade level.

Did you know there is a 3,000 mile long road that follows the entirety of the Mississippi River? This scenic route winds all the way from Lake Itasca in Minnesota, to Louisiana and the Gulf of Mexico. Of all the territory the road covers, Illinois has by far the most picturesque stretch of the river.

Pro tip: the stretch of River Road between Alton and Grafton Illinois is unlike any other place in Illinois. This area is the confluence of the Mississippi, Missouri and Illinois Rivers. Complete with a full view of the Mississippi and towering white cliffs, you would hardly think you were in the Midwest. There are many memorable stops along the way including the Loading Dock, Pere Marquette State Park, Lewis and Clark Confluence Tower, and Historic Downtown Alton.

Did you know Illinois has a snow sculpting competition?

In 1985, two Rockford businessmen stumbled upon a snow sculpture that showed a winter carnival scene while snowmobiling through Wisconsin. After finding out who created the sculptures, the businessmen invited the artists to Rockford where they sculpted an American eagle, the Statue of Liberty and the Liberty Bell, with the help of Rockford Park District staff.

Today is National Popcorn Day and a perfect way to celebrate is to enjoy this classic treat as your state snack! National Popcorn day may have popped up on the National Holiday calendar in 2013, but this time-honored snack has been celebrated since 1988. From a traditional movie theatre food to a gourmet sweet, popcorn is a national and local staple.

With approximately 333 popcorn farms across Illinois, the state is recognized as the third largest grower of the product. In 2003, this “Official Illinois Snackfood” was voted as a state symbol thanks to the support of second and third grade students and their teacher, Fran Hollister, at Cunningham Elementary in Joliet, which was sponsored by former State Senator Larry Walsh.

As January in Illinois brings along cold temperatures, snow and ice, are you looking to have some winter fun?

Alongside sledding, skiing, or making a snowman, ice rinks are a fun and popular place for kids and families to gather and enjoy a winter activity. Illinois is home to many ice rinks that house a plethora of different opportunities for everyone to enjoy!